In the upcoming Pokémon TCG set Destined Rivals, releasing on May 30, 2025, we’ll see the return of the Gen 1 Pokémon Staryu and Starmie in the forms of Misty’s Staryu and Misty’s Starmie. These cards will be a common and an uncommon, respectively. Unfortunately, it does not appear that either Pokémon will receive an Illustration Rare in this set. This marks their first appearance since the SV: Paldean Fates set.
Let’s take a closer look at these two cards:
Misty’s Staryu – 046/182
This release marks the third set in the Scarlet & Violet era featuring Staryu, following SV 151 and Paldean Fates. It’s also the third time Staryu is depicted with Misty as its trainer, the previous two being Gym Challenge and Gym Heroes. This brings the total number of Staryu variants in the TCG to 57.
The card’s artwork shows Staryu in front of a pool, set against a backdrop of blue and white with Greco-Roman columns in the background. There’s significant lighting from behind, casting multiple shadows in different directions; an interesting detail given the natural light flooding the indoor pool setting.
Overall, I think the artwork is solid. I appreciate the use of blue and white tones, which provide visual continuity between the background and the card’s border. However, there isn’t much to say about Misty’s Staryu itself in terms of standout features.
Still, this card would make a fun addition to the collection of anyone who enjoys Staryu or Water-type Pokémon.
SMS Cardz Rating: 7.1/10
Misty’s Starmie – 047/182
It hasn’t been long since we saw a Misty-themed Starmie—Starmie V appeared in the Astral Radiance Trainer Gallery back in 2022. Prior to that, Misty’s Starmie only appeared in Gym Heroes. This new release will mark the 57th–58th variants of Starmie in the TCG.
Although fans may be disappointed that there’s no IR/SIR variant this time, Starmie has had plenty of premium treatments in recent years, including a Shiny Rare in Paldean Fates, a Full Art and Trainer Gallery version in Astral Radiance, and a GX card in Hidden Fates.
I’m quite fond of the artwork on Misty’s Starmie. It’s shown standing in a shallow beach setting, with water gently lapping up about one-third of its 3’7″ body. The water is detailed with a honeycomb-like light pattern on the sand beneath it.
In the background, there’s a sandbar with orange umbrellas that nicely complement both the color scheme and Misty’s orange hair. The clouds are fluffy and reminiscent of a perfect summer day. A bold black outline makes Starmie pop against the background, and the slightly lighter coloration underwater is a thoughtful touch.
While this artwork doesn’t quite surpass the Trainer Gallery card from Astral Radiance, I think it’s the best non-Ultra Rare Starmie artwork to date.
SMS Cardz Rating: 8.9/10
*Please note that the ratings given in this article are for entertainment purposes only. They are highly dependent on my current mood and taste while writing the specific article and ratings will very likely contradict one another.
*This post is not sponsored or endorsed by The Pokémon Company, Nintendo, Game Freak, or any affiliated entities. All opinions expressed are my own and are based on personal analysis and experience. The SMS Cardz Ratings are subjective and intended for entertainment and informational purposes only.
