The "Battle Partners" expansion is the ninth set in the Pokémon Trading Card Game's Scarlet & Violet series, released in Japan on January 24, 2025. This set reintroduces the "Trainer's Pokémon" mechanic, pairing iconic trainers with their partner Pokémon—a feature first seen in the Gym Heroes expansion.
The expansion comprises 132 cards: 100 regular and 32 secret rares. Notable trainer-Pokémon pairings include N with Zoroark ex, Lillie with Clefairy ex, Hop with Zacian, and Iono with Bellibolt.
Released alongside the main set were themed products such as the "Battle Partners Deck Build Box," "Collection File Set N," and "Collection File Set Lillie." Additionally, customers purchasing a booster box received a promotional Iono's Wattrel card.
This expansion has been well-received for its nostalgic reintroduction of the Trainer's Pokémon mechanic and the inclusion of beloved characters from the Pokémon universe.
The "Battle Partners" expansion of the Pokémon Trading Card Game has introduced several highly sought-after cards, particularly among collectors and competitive players. Notably, the set features 12 art rares, 11 secret rares, six secret art rares, and three ultra rares, showcasing iconic trainers alongside their partner Pokémon.
Among these, the Special Art Rare (SAR) cards are especially coveted due to their rarity and intricate artwork. Prominent examples include:
- N's Zoroark ex: This card is not only visually striking but also valued for its competitive viability in gameplay.
- Lillie's Clefairy ex: Featuring the beloved character Lillie with her partner Clefairy, this card has garnered significant attention from collectors.
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Iono's Bellibolt ex: Depicting the trainer Iono alongside Bellibolt, this card is another highlight of the set.
- Additionally, a notable misprint has emerged in the set: the gold version of N's Zoroark ex inadvertently uses the texture intended for the Special Illustration Rare version. This error has increased its desirability among collectors.
- Overall, the combination of unique artwork, the return of the Trainer's Pokémon mechanic, and the inclusion of beloved characters has made the "Battle Partners" expansion particularly appealing to the Pokémon TCG community.