Psyduck is coming back to the Pokémon TCG in the next set, Destined Rivals, in the forms of Misty’s Psyduck Illustration Rare and Uncommon. This release will be a solo appearance for Psyduck, as its evolution, Golduck, is not featured in the Destined Rivals set. The last time we saw Psyduck was in the Scarlet & Violet – 151 set, which also included an Illustration Rare version. This isn’t the first time we’ve seen a Psyduck card featuring Misty as its trainer, with Misty’s Psyduck appearing in both the Gym Heroes and Gym Challenge sets. With this release, we’ll see the 63rd–65th variants of Psyduck in the TCG.
Let’s take a look at these cards:
Misty’s Psyduck Illustration Rare – 193/182
It hasn’t been very long since we last saw an Illustration Rare release for Psyduck, with the most recent being in SV 151. Before that, we had some notable releases for Psyduck, including in the Unified Minds set, which featured an Ultra Rare, Full Art, Secret Rare, and Alternate Full Art version of Slowpoke and Psyduck GX. These are among the most expensive Psyduck cards ever released, with the current most valuable—the Alternate Full Art—having a market price of just over $147.
While I think this new card will have strong appeal among collectors, I’m actually not a huge fan of it. We see Misty and Psyduck swimming together in what appears to be a shallow pond. The water is very clear, with stones lining the bottom. Misty and Psyduck swim gently, with no real urgency or direction.
Although the artwork is fitting for the duo, I’m not fond of Psyduck’s appearance. It has a very realistic look—almost like a glossy rubber duck. The style reminds me of the Detective Pikachu art style, which just isn’t my cup of tea. That said, this is purely personal preference, and I do think many fans will love the artwork. Personally, I much prefer the Illustration Rare from SV 151, which shows Psyduck confusedly wandering down a path. It perfectly captures Psyduck’s character and pairs well with its first move, Overthink.
SMS Cardz Rating: 6.6/10
Misty’s Psyduck – 045/182
Misty’s Psyduck will also have an Uncommon version in the Destined Rivals set. As usual, this will include both normal and Reverse Holo variants. This marks the third set to feature Misty’s Psyduck, following its appearances in Gym Heroes and Gym Challenge. Notably, the Gym Heroes version also had a W-stamped promo released by Wizards of the Coast.
The artwork on this card is quite nice. Psyduck is sitting beside a pool under bright sunlight, which reflects intensely off both the pool and Psyduck itself. The setting creates a subtle continuity between this Uncommon and the Illustration Rare version, with both having a water/swimming theme and a bright, summery atmosphere.
I do wish Psyduck looked a bit more confused. In this illustration, it resembles a goofy little child casually sitting by the pool. It’s adorable, but I associate Psyduck more with overthinking and anxiety than carefree lounging. Still, perhaps being near water helps it relax and let its thoughts drift away.
Compared to past releases, I don’t think the artwork is quite as strong as the Boundaries Crossed or Triumphant Psyduck cards, but I do prefer it over cards like the common from Neo Destiny. In any case, Psyduck fans will likely be glad to see a new release for their favorite little overthinker—even if this time, Psyduck seems to be taking a small break from all that mental strain.
SMS Cardz Rating: 6.5/10
*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.
