The word “fate” can have an ominous meaning, signifying some uncontrollable future or destiny. But when it comes to the artwork in the Pokémon TCG: Scarlet & Violet—Paldean Fates expansion, fate is undeniably a gift. In this case, it’s the promise of compelling artwork capturing Pokémon in their many moods. It’s a refreshing jaunt through Paldea, reminding you of everything you loved about Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet. Embrace your Paldean fate with some of the expansion’s highlights—and don’t hesitate to pick out your own favorite cards!
Wish You Were Here
Like a good book, movie, or game, good artwork takes you on a journey. And the Pokémon TCG: Scarlet & Violet—Paldean Fates expansion is filled with snapshots of stunning Instagram-worthy destinations. Illustrator Masako Tomii’s Maractus offers a warm welcome to a vibrant desert teeming with blooming cacti and blanketed by starry skies. The Pokémon’s friendly expression and welcoming pose make it the perfect ambassador for any vacation destination.
Adventurers seeking a different climate might be taken in by Magmar’s forest wonderland, as captured by artist miki kudo. Reclining on a log while enjoying the majesty of shooting stars, the Spitfire Pokémon appears surprisingly peaceful. The illustration’s bold geometric details, so characteristic of kudo’s style, offer a meditative escape from the hustle and bustle of the real world. It’s hard not to imagine taking a seat beside this fiery Pokémon and whiling away the evening in companionable silence.
When it comes to Pokémon having the time of their life in a beautiful landscape, it’s tough to top HYOGONOSUKE’S Mime Jr. Let’s be honest: most of us wish we were chilling in a setting filled with palm trees and a glorious waterfall. The pint-sized Mime Pokémon is living the dream, and, based on its joyful smile, it’s obviously not taking anything for granted. HYOGONOSUKE’s distinctive style features a lack of lines that creates a flow between the individual components of his landscape. And here, that style is the perfect complement to a tropical getaway.
Hello, Paldea
Given that the expansion is titled Paldean Fates, it makes sense that the magnificent Paldea region would feature prominently in the card art. It’s always exciting recognizing a specific location from the video games, and Scarlet & Violet—Paldean Fates delivers plenty of these moments. Artist Gemi’s Lapras offers a new perspective on your first thrilling day in Cabo Poco as the Transport Pokémon relaxes into the ocean, with the distinctive Poco Path Lighthouse just beyond. Lapras pops against a subdued color palette that highlights its peaceful expression and incredible presence.
After kicking off your journey in Cabo Poco, it’s time to visit either the Naranja Academy or Uva Academy. Illustrator Tika Matsuno’s Ralts seems quite reasonably overwhelmed by the grandeur of the Academy. With the use of forced perspective, we get to experience the elaborate architecture and size of the building while also appreciating the adorable expression of awe on Ralts’ face. The aptly named Feeling Pokémon appears to be experiencing some pretty big emotions, and thanks to Matsuno’s masterful art, we get to experience them right along with it.
The journey across Paldea continues with a cheerful Pikachu bounding its way through Levincia’s bright streets. Everything about OKACHEKE’s artwork radiates joy, from the bright colors to the light filtering down onto the street to the smiling Pikachu front and center. Whether you’re visiting to challenge Gym Leader Iono or simply enjoying the sights the East Province has to offer, crossing paths with this happy Pikachu would undoubtedly leave you with a smile on your face.
Be My Valentine
Artist Teeziro’s Natu is so adorable that it’s love at first flight. Framed by a colorful array of cacti in bloom, the Tiny Bird Pokémon has a soft, warm quality that you might not expect. Typically, Natu is depicted in-flight or perched high above the ground, likely preparing for takeoff. It’s refreshing to see another side of this pint-sized Psychic-type Pokémon.
What would a valentine be without a cheesy message to accompany it? For illustrator Naoyo Kimura’s Raichu, there are plenty of themes to choose from when composing the perfect tribute. Reach for the stars with a heavenly ode to the serene skyscape above with something utterly original like, “you’re a star” or “to a stellar friend”. Or lean into Raichu’s Electric typing and the voltage vividly sparking off the Pokémon’s sharp ears and tail with “you light up my life” or “you’re electric.” Either way, you can’t go wrong.
If your love language is food, Heat Rotom is your Pokémon. Illustrator Scav captures a cozy, domestic scene with Heat Rotom in the kitchen. The cheerfulness of this Pokémon shines through as it pauses in the midst of preparing a delicious meal. What really sets this artwork apart is the degree of detail that Scav uses to draw the viewer in. From framed artwork on the wall—including a Poké Ball—to a counter full of kitchen tools, the scene feels warm and comforting. You can really imagine yourself spending a cozy afternoon in the kitchen with Heat Rotom.
If there’s one thing you can count on in life, it’s that Fidough is never gonna bake your heart, never gonna let you down. In fact, artist Mizue’s Puppy Pokémon is the epitome of puppylike innocence and charm. From the golden roses that almost match the golden highlights on the Pokémon’s ears and collar to the delicate light filtering through the petals fluttering through the air, this image is the definition of dreamy.
Artistic Excellence
If you’re on the hunt for detailed artwork that evokes wonder and delight, Scarlet & Violet—Paldean Fates awaits. Artist Yoriyuki Ikegami has a well-deserved reputation for creating stunning floral backgrounds for their Pokémon—their Exeggutor is no exception. Count the colors, patterns, and shapes in Ikegami’s elaborate jungle landscape and then pause to enjoy the incredibly dopey expression on all three of the Coconut Pokémon’s faces.
Kedamahadaitai Yawarakai’s Clobbopus takes us from the lovely land to the superb sea. This impressionist-style masterpiece is an ocean of brushstroke and color that meld into something greater than the sum of its parts. Despite its moniker as the Tantrum Pokémon, Yawarakai’s Clobbopus appears peaceful, possibly even meditative. It might just be an effect of the artist’s masterful touch, but this is one Clobbopus we wouldn’t mind meeting.
Tetsu Kayama is once again kicking it into high gear with their distinctive pointillist style, this time applied to the distinctive Varoom. The overall composition has an unnerving quality, as though you’ve stumbled across a group of wild Varoom frolicking through an eerie landscape. The plum color of Varoom’s wheels is echoed across the landscape in the shading of the ground, established dot by painstaking dot. Maybe it’s the distinctive color palette comprised of that plum color, along with a healthy dose of turquoise and other shades of blue. Maybe it’s Varoom’s bright yellow eye front and center staring out at you. Whatever it is, this card is difficult to forget.
Find your own favorite and explore your favorite artistic themes with the Pokémon TCG: Scarlet & Violet—Paldean Fates expansion.
