A fresh expansion is on the way for Pokémon TCG Pocket, following a recent announcement. Known as Paradox Drive (B3a), the update is scheduled to arrive in the mobile trading card application on 27 May at 6pm PT. Drawing inspiration from the ninth generation of the franchise, the set will introduce “Paradox Pokémon” such as Koraidon ex and Miraidon ex, alongside new subcategories for Ancient and Future types.
These Paradox Pokémon originally debuted in the Scarlet and Violet games. In those titles, players encountered either Ancient or Future variants that were brought into the present day by a professor using a time machine. These creatures act as distinct variations of Pokémon from earlier generations.
Get ready to drive into uncharted territory unbound by time 🛞 ⏳
Paradox Pokémon make their entrance as Ancient and Future Pokémon and Trainer cards debut in the newest
expansion! pic.twitter.com/u3fiqEukN3
The reveal provides a glimpse into the specific mechanics and cards arriving with this digital expansion. Leading the collection are the legendary Pokémon Miraidon ex and Koraidon ex, which served as the original box art for the games, representing the Future and Ancient categories respectively. Other notable additions include Iron Bundle ex, Flutter Mane ex, and a full art version of Raging Bolt.
New trainer cards will work in tandem with the Ancient and Future subcategories, bringing familiar elements from the ninth generation to the app. For instance, Professor Turo allows players to shuffle a Future Pokémon currently in play back into their deck. Meanwhile, Professor Sada provides a powerful advantage by letting players attach three different energy cards from their discard pile to their Ancient Pokémon in any manner they choose.
The “Ancient” and “Future” classifications, along with Paradox Pokémon, were previously featured in the standard trading card game via the Paradox Rift set. Within the card game, these Pokémon do not belong to any evolution lines. They are typically characterised by high energy costs and lower HP, which balances out their exceptionally strong abilities as Basic Pokémon. Early previews suggest that the digital version of the game will follow this same design philosophy.
Alongside the expansion, several standard events will take place, such as new solo battles to help players earn timers. A Paradox Drive emblem event is set to begin in late May, with a community week following in mid-June. Additionally, new accessories and covers featuring Miraidon will be released on 31 May.
