In the upcoming Pokémon TCG set, Destined Rivals, Slugma and Magcargo are making their return to the game as Ethan’s Slugma and Ethan’s Magcargo. This marks the third appearance of the duo in the Scarlet & Violet block, following back-to-back standard releases in Temporal Forces and Twilight Masquerade. Once again, it appears there will be no Illustration Rare or other special variants of these Pokémon included in the set.
Ethan’s Slugma – 035/182
Ethan’s Slugma has had several releases since its debut in Generation II. This marks its third appearance in the Scarlet & Violet era, bringing the total number of Slugma variants to 45–46. It previously had three releases each during the Sword & Shield and Sun & Moon eras, and two during XY. Notably, Slugma has never received a Full Art or Secret Rare variant. Its two Skyridge Reverse Holo versions are still—very likely to remain—the most valuable Slugma cards even after this release.
I’m quite a fan of the artwork on this card. Slugma is perched on one of a dozen rocks surrounding the stump of a tree on a bright, sunny day. It gazes straight up at the sun, its large yellow eyes almost appearing sun-scorched.
I particularly love how the artwork incorporates rays of light and shadow, evoking the image of a small dog basking in the sunshine. This illustration ranks among my favorite depictions of Slugma. The only artwork I consider significantly better is from Vivid Voltage, where Slugma overlooks a volcano and lava flow from a mountainside perch.
SMS Cardz Rating: 7.7/10
Ethan’s Magcargo – 036/182
Ethan’s Magcargo will be released only as a Holo Rare and Reverse Holo in Destined Rivals. In the past, Magcargo has received both ex and EX variants, including a Secret Rare Magcargo-GX in Sun & Moon – Lost Thunder. It has also appeared in multiple League Challenge promos. This release brings the total number of Magcargo variants to 53–54.
I think the artwork for Ethan’s Magcargo is decent, though not outstanding. Magcargo appears to be scaling a mountain covered in ice. Whether it’s struggling upward or charging toward something, it looks intense and determined—so much so that flames are bursting from its shell.
With an attack named “Lava Explosion,” the illustration makes it feel as if Magcargo is about to erupt—both the Pokémon and possibly the mountain itself. Like Ethan’s Slugma, this artwork also features radiant beams of light, creating a slight visual continuity between the two cards.
While not as impressive as the Sword & Shield – Fusion Strike Rare, it’s still a big improvement over earlier depictions like the one from Neo Destiny.
SMS Cardz Rating: 5.9/10
*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.
