First Partner Illustration Collections – Wave 1 Promo Cards Officially Revealed

The Pokémon 30th anniversary celebration continues with the upcoming release of the First Partner Illustration Collections, and we now have our first look at the Illustration Rare promo cards from Wave 1.

Launching on March 30, 2026, Series 1 spotlights Starter Pokémon from three beloved regions: Pokemon Red and Blue (Kanto), Pokemon Diamond and Pearl (Sinnoh), and Pokemon Sun and Moon (Alola).

Iconic Regional Themes Take Center Stage

Each Illustration Rare promo beautifully captures the spirit of its respective region. The artwork incorporates nostalgic elements longtime fans will immediately recognize:

• Kanto – Classic Gym Badges and the original Pokédex

• Sinnoh – Distinctive badge designs and regional landmarks

• Alola – Z-Crystals and island-inspired scenery
  

The cards lean heavily into nostalgia, blending Starter Pokémon with region-defining items and environments that helped shape each generation’s identity.

What’s Inside Each Collection?

Every First Partner Illustration Collection will include:

• 1 special promo booster pack containing 3 of 9 possible Illustration Rare promo cards

• 2 standard booster packs

• 1 themed sticker sheet

Collectors aiming to complete all nine promos from Wave 1 will need to pick up multiple boxes, as the promo booster features randomized pulls.

What’s Coming Next?

Two additional waves are scheduled for release later in 2026:

• Series 2 (Expected): Johto, Unova, and Galar

• Series 3 (Expected): Hoenn, Kalos, and Paldea
  

While official confirmation of the featured regions for Waves 2 and 3 is still pending, this rollout structure would cover all nine generations in celebration of three decades of Pokémon.

With anniversary products already generating buzz across the TCG community, the First Partner Illustration Collections are shaping up to be a nostalgic highlight of 2026. Stay tuned to Portal TCG for more updates as additional promo artwork and release details are revealed.