Thirty years is a long run for any franchise, and Pokémon has a track record of treating its anniversaries as genuine events rather than marketing footnotes.
Three decades since Red and Green
Pokémon launched in Japan in February 1996 with the original Red and Green games, meaning 2026 marks a full 30 years of the franchise — a milestone that sits alongside the well-remembered 20th and 25th anniversary celebrations.
What past anniversaries looked like for the TCG
Previous milestone years brought special reprint sets, commemorative packaging and celebratory card lines that reused iconic older artwork in new formats — a pattern collectors have come to expect and watch for around round-number anniversaries.
What it means for collectors
Anniversary years tend to bring renewed media attention and nostalgia back to the franchise's history, and that attention has historically coincided with increased interest in vintage cards as new and returning collectors look backward as well as at current sets.
Frequently asked questions
When did Pokémon first launch?
February 1996 in Japan, making 2026 its 30th anniversary.
Does the TCG usually get anniversary-specific products?
Yes, following the pattern of the 20th and 25th anniversary releases.
Are older Pokémon cards likely to see renewed interest during the anniversary?
Historically yes, as anniversaries draw renewed nostalgia and attention.