Pokemon TCG Set Timeline
The Pokemon TCG has released hundreds of expansion sets across multiple eras since 1999. Each era introduced new mechanics, art styles, and card types. Here is a complete timeline of every major era in the English-language TCG.
Original Era (1999-2003) — Published by Wizards of the Coast. Sets: Base Set, Jungle, Fossil, Base Set 2, Team Rocket, Gym Heroes, Gym Challenge, Neo Genesis, Neo Discovery, Neo Revelation, Neo Destiny, Legendary Collection, Expedition, Aquapolis, Skyridge. This era established the game and introduced Dark Pokemon, Shining Pokemon, and the first Crystal-type cards.
EX Era (2003-2007) — The Pokemon Company takes over. Sets include Ruby & Sapphire through EX Power Keepers. Introduced Pokemon-ex (lower case) that gave up 2 prizes. Full-art EX cards and Gold Stars were the chase cards of this period.
Diamond & Pearl Era (2007-2009) — Sets from Diamond & Pearl through Arceus. Introduced Pokemon LV.X and brought back classic Pokemon for the HeartGold & SoulSilver sets. Prime and LEGEND cards were introduced.
Black & White Era (2011-2013) — Sets from Black & White through Legendary Treasures. Introduced Pokemon-EX (uppercase) with full-art versions. The Boundaries Crossed set introduced Ace Spec cards. This era marks the start of Expanded format legality.
XY Era (2013-2016) — Sets from XY through Evolutions. Introduced Mega Evolution Pokemon and BREAK Pokemon. The Evolutions set was a nostalgic reprint of Base Set cards and remains popular with collectors.
Sun & Moon Era (2017-2019) — Sets from Sun & Moon through Cosmic Eclipse. Introduced Pokemon-GX with one-time GX attacks, Tag Team Pokemon-GX, and Rainbow Rare cards.
Sword & Shield Era (2020-2023) — Sets from Sword & Shield through Crown Zenith. Introduced Pokemon V, VMAX (Dynamax/Gigantamax), and VSTAR. The alternate art card style became wildly popular. This era coincided with the massive 2020-2021 Pokemon collecting boom.
Scarlet & Violet Era (2023-present) — Sets from Scarlet & Violet through the current expansion. Brought back Pokemon ex (lowercase) and introduced Tera Pokemon ex. Illustration Rare and Special Art Rare categories replaced the alternate art designation. Features some of the most beautiful artwork in TCG history.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Pokemon TCG sets are there?↓
There are over 100 English-language Pokemon TCG expansion sets released across 8 major eras since 1999, plus dozens of special sets, promos, and mini-sets.
What era are we in for the Pokemon TCG?↓
As of 2025, the Pokemon TCG is in the Scarlet & Violet era, which began in March 2023. This era features Pokemon ex, Tera Pokemon, and stunning Illustration Rare cards.