Pokémon - Trading Card Game: First Partner Illustration Collection - Series 1

I opened the First Partner collection with trepidation and, to be frank, a lack of enthusiasm only tempered by the fact that I paid MSRP and not the $50+ our local scalpers (SORRY, "resellers") claim is "fair market value" - which is a construct of society and not a measurable metric. The packaging advertises "30 years of first partner Pokémon," a sentimental framing for what is essentially a delivery system for three very specific pieces of cardboard. The box contains two standard booster packs and a sticker sheet. The stickers are high-gloss and feature the various starters exhibiting forced, cheery expressions. I have placed the stickers in a drawer. I suspect they will remain there until the adhesive eventually fails or the house is reclaimed by the earth, whichever happens first. The primary objective of this purchase, as it is for any person currently participating in this economy, was the pack containing the illustration rare-style cards. It is an inefficient transaction. The Pokémon Company insists on bundling these cards with additional filler, creating a surplus of loose booster packs and stickers that now clutter my living space. They could sell the cards separately, but that would acknowledge the cold reality of the market, and they prefer the veneer of a "journey." We purchased two of these collections. Both contained the Kanto starters: Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Squirtle. I am informed by various internet forums that these are the most desirable of the three possible regional sets. This information did little to soothe the household. My children are visibly upset that neither box contained the Alola set featuring Litten. My husband, whose emotional investment in these creatures mirrors that of our offspring, shared in their quiet devastation. The situation deteriorated further when the first Kanto set went missing. A frantic search ensued, during which my husband convinced himself that the cards had been discarded. I watched from the kitchen as he spent twenty minutes sifting through the kitchen trash, meticulously inspecting coffee grounds and eggshells for any sign of a holographic Bulbasaur. It was a thorough, if harrowing, display of commitment to the hobby. He eventually located the cards. They were in the box of cards designated for sorting, precisely where one would expect to find them. The relief in his eyes was palpable, though it was tempered by the lingering scent of garbage under his nails. I explained to the family that the Kanto starters represent the foundation of the entire franchise and that their presence is a mathematical win. My eldest looked at the Charmander with a profound sense of betrayal. It seems that "desirability" is a subjective concept that does not survive the disappointment of a child who specifically requested a fire-cat. We now own two sets of the same three cards. They sit on the shelf, a pair of identical triumphs that I alone am pleased to have obtained. I will likely use the empty box to store the screws I find on the floor that I cannot identify. It is a flimsy yet colorful box that my children beg me not to throw away. Would I wait 2 hours in line to repeat this purchase? Probably, because I am a masochist like that.

bsolutely loved this First Partner Illustration Collection - Series 1! The three promo cards in the special pack have stunning illustration rare-style artwork of the classic starters from Kanto, Sinnoh, and Alola — they're nostalgic, vibrant, and feel super premium. The two extra booster packs and cute sticker sheet are a nice bonus too. Perfect for collectors or anyone who wants to celebrate the bond with their first partner Pokémon. Great quality and value overall — highly recommend!

If you can get your hands on one at retail, like at Best Buy, this is one of the best Pokémon products ever! This is because it is a great value. No matter what, you guaranteed "hits" in the form of high value promos. The illustration rare starters look beautiful, and unlike other promos, it's still a surprise because you still have to open a "pack" to see them!

Best Buy is very organized when it comes to pokemon cards. Its extremely hard to find cards for our kids and best buy make sure scalpers cant grab them all. The staff is very friendly and helpful. We will definitely continue to purchase pokemon cards from best buy!

The Pokémon TCG First Partner Illustration Collection is a special product series celebrating the franchise's 30th anniversary. Each set includes a special promo booster pack with three Illustration Rare-style promo cards of starter Pokémon, two standard booster packs, and a sticker sheet.