The Pokemon Scarlet and Violet video games introduced the new Terastallization phenomenon which allows Pokemon to change their type. Players can use Terastallization in Pokemon to gain an advantage during battles. The phenomenon will not be limited to video games, and it will also be represented in Pokemon TCG. With the Scarlet and Violet set of cards, fans will be able to collect Terastallized versions of certain Pokemon, and they will bring special perks during competitive matches.
One of the most interesting cards revealed thus far is a Dark-type Charizard, which will certainly be sought after by collectors. Western collectors can expect the first batch of Pokemon TCG Scarlet and Violet cards at the end of March, and they will come with a few subtle changes to the design. Terastallization will also be further explored in the upcoming DLC for the video games.
Terastallization in Pokemon TCG
In Gen 9, gamers venture to Paldea where they discover Terastallization. This could have been implemented in various interesting ways in Pokemon TCG, including by giving fans peelable Terastal cards. However, The Pokemon Company has decided to instead release cards that depict various creatures in their Terastallized form. The cards will be quite attractive to collectors, as Terastal Pokemon take on a crystallized appearance. This opens the door to some stunning artwork of Terastallized Pokemon, especially on shiny holofoil cards.
There have been quite a few Terastal Pokemon cards revealed already. Some retain their original type, including Arcanine ex and Gyarados ex, while others, like the Dark-type Charizard card, take on a new type. Terastal ex cards bring competitive advantages, as these critters cannot be damaged while they are on the bench, which can be useful for setting up strategies that take a few turns. As more Scarlet and Violet Pokemon TCG products are revealed and released, there will likely be plenty more Terastallized versions of creatures released.
Scarlet and Violet Mark a New Era For Pokemon TCG
Terastallization will add a new element to Pokemon TCG battles, as players will have a much more protected bench. However, this isn't the only change coming. The V and VSTAR cards that dominated the Sword and Shield era of Pokemon TCG have also been replaced by ex cards. The ex is short for extra, which references the fact that many attacks have additional effects on Pokemon ex creatures. There are also visual changes coming that are meant to introduce more uniformity between the Japanese and English cards, in addition to making them easier to read at a glance. Hence, from Scarlet and Violet onwards, English cards will feature silver borders like their Japanese counterparts.
The inclusion of Terastallization in Pokemon TCG may make many gamers interested in dabbling in the card game. However, they should be aware that things will be slightly more expensive this year due to global inflation and the increase in booster pack prices. To make the increased price of products easier to swallow, The Pokemon Company has explained that Scarlet and Violet products will feature three guaranteed holofoils in each booster pack.
Terastallization is an interesting battle mechanic, and it appears that The Pokemon Company isn't done exploring it just yet. The Scarlet and Violet video games will be receiving DLC which will introduce a new legendary Pokemon named Terapagos. It has the Terastal symbol on its shell, which could indicate some kind of deep connection to the phenomenon. Between Pokemon TCG and video games, it appears gamers will be learning a lot more about Terastallization.