APokemon TCG Pocketfan pointed out that Gardevoir’s illustration is actually the winner of aPokemonillustration contest. Gardevoir was one of the most influential cards of the Genetic Apex set, which wasPokemon TCG Pocket’s first expansion. While six more sets have launched since then, the card recently returned to the spotlight thanks to a fan sharing this lesser-known detail.
Backwhen Psychic and Lightning decks dominatedPokemon TCG Pocket, it was Gardevoir’s pairing with Mewtwo ex that proved most successful. Its ability, Psy Shadow, lets it pull extra Psychic Energy from the zone, helping other Psychic-type Pokemon like Mewtwo ex ramp up more quickly. But Gardevoir’s ability doesn’t seem to be the only thing that makes the card stand out.
As Reddit user ZombieAladdin pointed out, Gardevoir’s illustration is the winner of thefirst Pokemon Card Game Illustration Grand Prix. Held in 2019 under the theme “Pokemon Landscapes,” the contest drew over 5,000 entries. Out of all, Yuu Nishida’s artwork won the grand prize, and the submitted artwork was printed on aPokemon TCGpromo card. Years later, the same work reappeared as the debut illustration for Gardevoir inPokemon TCG Pocket’s Genetic Apex set. For those curious, Gardevoir isn’t the only card illustrated by the talented artist. In addition to the award-winning artwork, Yuu Nishida has 14 other pieces featured in DeNA’s game.
Pokemon Illustration Contest Has Discovered Many Talented Artists
ZombieAladdin, the user who shared the details about Gardevoir’s illustration, also pointed out that the Pokemon Illustration Contest has helped spotlight many new artists. For instance, the first Grand Prix runner-up, Narumi Sato, has since illustrated several cards for the franchise, including unique versions of Bulbasaur, Tangela, Shaymin, Togepi, and Buneary, as well as a full-art Pikipek. They’re not the only contestant to join the ranks of official Pokemon illustrators. Amelicart and Teeziro are two other familiar names that gained recognition through these contests. Amelicart, in particular, is a fan favorite because they designedPokemon TCG Pocket’s secret Mew card, which is now one of the game’s most sought-after collectibles.
ThePokemon Trading Card Gamehas continued to hold yearly illustration contests since 2019, drawing tens of thousands of artists. So far, though, the only artwork from these contests to make its way into DeNA’s digital trading card game has been the Genetic Apex Gardevoir. Hopefully,futurePokemon TCG Pocketexpansionswill introduce more of these variants, because, based on the community’s reaction, it’s clear that fans fully support cards featuring contest-winning illustrations.
Pokemon Trading Card Game Pocket
WHERE TO PLAY
Experience the fun of collecting Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) cards with Pokémon Trading Card Game Pocket, an upcoming game for iOS and Android devices from Creatures Inc., the original developers of the Pokémon TCG, and DeNA Co., Ltd. In this game, you will be able to open two booster packs every day at no cost. you’re able to collect digital cards featuring nostalgic artwork from the past as well as brand-new cards that are exclusive to Pokémon Trading Card Game Pocket.Be on the lookout for new “immersive cards,” which will make you feel as though you’ve leapt into the world of the card’s illustration.
