Pokemon Trading Cards Set to Return in McDonald's Happy Meals This Fall

Pokemon fans have something exciting to look forward to, as Pokemon trading cards are expected to make a return to McDonald's Happy Meals later this year. The collaboration between Pokemon and McDonald's has been ongoing for over a decade, with Pokemon cards being a staple in Happy Meals annually since 2011. Over the years, there have been various other collaborations between the two brands.

Currently, a Pokemon x McDonald's promotion is underway, but it's limited to Japan. For a short period, Pokemon toys inspired by the characters from the Pokemon Horizons anime series are being included in Happy Meals there, with new toys being released in waves. It's uncertain if these toys will become available outside of Japan, but it's likely that the trading cards will be.

According to a report by PokeBeach, McDonald's in France will host its Pokemon TCG promotion from December 4, 2024, to January 21, 2025. Traditionally, the French version of the promotion occurs "a month or two" after the US one, suggesting that Pokemon cards could be back in US McDonald's Happy Meals this October or November. PokeBeach noted that the promotion usually takes place earlier in the year, though it's unclear why it's happening later this year. However, plans for the US version have not been officially announced, so fans should temper their expectations until more information is released.

Pokemon Cards Returning to McDonald's

It's likely that Pokemon trading cards will return to McDonald's Happy Meals this fall, as anticipated. The collaboration might coincide with the launch of the new mobile game, Pokemon Trading Card Game Pocket. This mobile adaptation of the Pokemon Trading Card game shows a lot of promise based on initial previews. However, the specific release date for the app has not been announced, and there's no certainty it will align with the McDonald's promotion. It is expected to launch at some point in 2024.

As for the Pokemon cards themselves, fans can look forward to new releases later this year and in 2025. With no new main series Pokemon games scheduled for 2024, the card game is expected to continue drawing inspiration from Scarlet and Violet for the time being.