Heat Wave Arena scheduled for release on March 14, 2025

The Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) is set to expand its Scarlet & Violet series with the upcoming Japanese set titled Heat Wave Arena, scheduled for release on March 14, 2025.

This set continues the "Trainer's Pokémon" theme, spotlighting iconic Trainers and their partner Pokémon.

Heat Wave Arena is the ninth subset in the Scarlet & Violet era of the Pokémon TCG. The set comprises 63 main cards, excluding any secret rares. It features "Trainer's Pokémon" cards associated with notable Trainers such as Misty, Ethan, Cynthia, and Arven. This theme allows players to collect and battle with Pokémon that have special connections to these Trainers, enhancing the strategic depth and nostalgic appeal of the game.

Top Chase Cards

Several cards from Heat Wave Arena are generating significant excitement among collectors and players:

• Ethan's Ho-Oh ex: This Fire-type Pokémon ex card boasts the "Golden Flame" ability, enabling players to attach up to two basic Fire Energy cards from their hand to one of their benched Ethan's Pokémon once per turn. Its "Shining Feather" attack deals 160 damage and heals 50 damage from each of the player's Pokémon.
• Cynthia's Garchomp ex: A formidable Fighting-type Pokémon ex, it features the "Corkscrew Dive" attack, which inflicts 100 damage and allows the player to draw cards until they have six in hand. Its "Dragon Blaster" attack delivers a massive 260 damage, with the drawback of discarding all energy attached to it.
• Cynthia's Roserade: This Grass-type Pokémon offers the "Glory Cheer" ability, increasing the damage of attacks by Cynthia's Pokémon by 30. Its "Leaf Steps" attack deals 80 damage.

Anticipated Popularity

The Heat Wave Arena set is poised to be highly sought after, both for its gameplay enhancements and collectible value. The inclusion of beloved Trainers and their signature Pokémon appeals to long-time fans and competitive players alike. Pre-order demand has been robust, with reports indicating that prices are approximately 40% higher than those of previous comparable sets, reflecting the community's enthusiasm and the set's perceived value.

Additionally, purchasers of Heat Wave Arena booster boxes at participating retailers in Japan will receive a special three-card booster pack featuring the winning illustrations from the Pokémon TCG Illustration Contest 2024, further enhancing the set's appeal.

In summary, Heat Wave Arena is set to make a significant impact on the Pokémon TCG landscape, offering exciting new cards that celebrate iconic Trainers and their partner Pokémon, and is eagerly anticipated by the global Pokémon community.