Controversy Surrounds Release of New Pokemon TCG Stellar Crown Card

With Shrouded Fable right around the corner and Stellar Crown on the horizon, it is a bustling period for members of the Pokemon TCG community.

The community has been steadily receiving reveals for the Stellar Crown card, causing excitement among Pokemon enthusiasts for the celestial expansion set. While the majority of card reveals have been well-received by fans and piqued the interest of competitive players, a Gen 1 card has been criticized as “shameful”by fans.

After being revealed on the official Pokemon social media pages, disappointed fans quickly criticized Blastoise ex (030/142). Despite some excitement from Pokemon TCG players, it was deemed too similar to the 151 Blastoise ex card, as seen side-by-side below.

Blastoise Pokemon cards side by side with pink background. — The Pokemon Company

151 Blastoise ex (009/165) and Stellar Crown Blastoise ex (030/142) Pokemon cards.

A Pokemon enthusiast on X raised the question, “Is this simply a mirror version of the 151 Blastoise ex?”Many others concurred, labeling it as a reprint and wondering why The Pokemon Company chose to use such a recognizable design in a fresh expansion set.

Upon viewing the new Stellar Crown Blastoise artwork on Instagram, one viewer noted that it had previously been seen on the Chinese Blastoise ex (07/SV-P) card from the Jubilant Collection.

The Japanese Venusaur & Charizard & Blastoise Special Deck Set ex also includes the card known as Blastoise ex (016/049).

Another disappointed viewer expressed their frustration, stating, “These new EXs are terrible and have decreased the worth of premium Pokemon. It’s a disgrace.”Additionally, many others shared their irritation at receiving yet another Blastoise ex card. One viewer even criticized the card, declaring, “They’re all identical.”

Despite the negative reactions to this card reveal, there were still players who were thrilled to see the beloved starter Pokemon. One enthusiastic collector even lovingly referred to Blastoise as “My babyboy,”while another boldly stated, “We absolutely must have more Blastoise cards! It’s the best Pokemon ever!”

Regardless of your emotions towards the Blastoise card, the absence of fresh designs may be disheartening. However, Stellar Crown is preparing to be a pivotal expansion set for players of the Pokemon TCG.