15 Best Pokémon XY-P Promotional Cards Ever Released
Taking a deep dive at some of the best XY-P promotional cards Pokémon TCG ever released in history. Many of these are considered a "Holy Grail" buy collectors and players due to its price and rarity of obtaining a copy.
The XY-P promotional cards have recently gained significant popularity, particularly with the anticipation surrounding the release of Pokémon Legends: Z-A, a sequel to the beloved XY series of Pokémon’s sixth generation. As fans eagerly await this new instalment, collectors are increasingly seeking out these promotional cards, which were originally released during the XY and XY BREAK eras of Gen 6. The buzz around Legends: Z-A is likely to drive demand for these cards even higher, making them a hot commodity in the trading card market.
As collectors and players alike prepare for the new adventures in Legends: Z-A, the demand for XY-P cards is expected to rise, positioning them as valuable assets in the trading card community. The connection between the two releases highlights the enduring legacy of Pokémon’s sixth generation and its impact on current trends in the Pokémon TCG market.
Best Pokémon XY-P Promotional Cards
Now, let us take a deep look at some of the best XY-P promotional cards Pokémon TCG has ever released in history. Many of these are considered a “Holy Grail” due to the price and rarity of obtaining a copy. Let us dive straight into the list!
15) Rayquaza ex
Card Number: 122/XY-P
Where To Buy: SNKRDUNK
One of the most affordable XY-P promotional cards still widely available in the Market. This Rayquaza ex promo card was made available back in 2015 as part of the Pokémon TCG Chance campaign running concurrently with the release of the expansion set Emerald Break [XY6]. To get your hands on this promotional card, one would first have to collect three 1-point cards which were included in specially marked Emerald Break booster packs with the values of 0 or 1.
By collecting three 1-point cards, one could redeem them for the Rayquaza ex card by mailing them to the designated redemption service. While each envelope could contain up to nine 1-point cards, there was no limit to how many envelopes an individual could send. The redemption campaign was active from 14 March to 7 May 2015. Interestingly, this promotional card is still considered relatively easy to find in card shops across Japan. Alternatively, you can also obtain this Rayquaza ex promo directly from our site.
14) M Gengar ex
Card Number: 079/XY-P
Where To Buy: SNKRDUNK
Released in Japan as one of the XY-P Promotional cards, this Gengar XY-P Promotional card was given to customers who purchased at least 1,500 JPY (~1,740 JPY / ~US$12 today) worth of merchandise during the White Mega Gengar Campaign held from 13 September to 14 October 2014.
This M Gengar ex XY-P promotional card highlights the Mega Evolution mechanic introduced in Pokémon X & Y, allowing Pokémon to temporarily evolve into a more powerful form during battle. As this card was never officially released outside Japan, it has become a highly sought-after collectible, especially among enthusiasts who specialize in rare and exclusive promotional cards.
13) Skyla
Card Number: 164/XY-P
Where To Buy: SNKRDUNK
This Skyla XY-P promotional card was a new Full Art print with artwork illustrated by the illustrator Megumi Mizutani. It was released as part of the BREAKpoint expansion, the ninth main expansion of the sixth generation of the Pokémon TCG, back in December 2015.
This particular print was exclusively released in Japan as an XY-P Promotional card, available to customers who attended Pokémon Card Gym events. To receive the promo, customers had to purchase any two boxes—either Blue Shock [XY8], Red Flash [XY8], or one of each—at the time of the set’s launch. Notably, the Skyla promotional card also bears the Blue Shock [XY8] and Red Flash [XY8] expansion logos stamped at the bottom. As such, this promo card is one that all Skyla “waifu” collectors want in their personal collection.
12) Ash-Greninja ex
Card Number: 164/XY-P
Where To Buy: SNKRDUNK
Exclusively available in Japan, this Ash-Greninja ex promo card was released as one of the XY-P Promotional cards. This card was made available to people who visited the Pokémon booth present at each venue hosting the 43rd Next Generation World Hobby Fair during the winter of 2016.
The World Hobby Fair was held across various locations throughout Japan. It kicked off at Makuhari Messe in Chiba on 23-24 January 2016. The event then moved to the Nagoya Dome in Nagoya on 31 January, followed by the Kyocera Dome in Osaka on 7 February. The fair concluded at the Fukuoka Yahuoku! Dome in Fukuoka on 14 February 2016. This Ash-Greninja ex promotional card remains highly sought after by Greninja collectors looking to add it to their personal collections. Are you one of them?
11) Mega Tokyo Pikachu
As you can see, there were two different prints of this XY-P promotional card made available exclusively in Japan for customers to obtain. The first print of the Mega Tokyo Pikachu XY-P promotional card numbered 098/XY-P, was released as part of the celebrations for the relocation of Pokémon Center Tokyo, which moved from its original location in Hamamatsuchō to Ikebukuro. This card was given to customers with any purchase made in the Pokémon Center from the opening day, 12 December 2014, to 16 January 2015.
The second and much rarer print, numbered 204/XY-P, was given to participants of the Pokémon Center Mega Battle and Creatures Challenge, which was held at all Pokémon Centers across Japan on 16 and 17 January 2016. There were only 960 copies of this print given out in total for those two days of the event, held at four different Pokémon Centers in Japan. As a result, this is arguably one of the much rarer XY-P promotional cards ever distributed.
10) Mewtwo ex (20th Anniversary Festa)
Card Number: XY-P
Where To Buy: SNKRDUNK
This Mewtwo ex XY-P promotional card was released in the year 2016 as an unnumbered XY-P Promotional card and it was awarded to players who accumulated 6 Play Points by participating in various events held as part of the 20th Anniversary Festa. Eligible events included the 20th Anniversary Battle, the Classic Battle, the 3 on 3 Battle, and many more. 2 Play Points were awarded to the participants for participating in each of the eligible events mentioned.
The 20th Anniversary Festa took place at Toki Messe in Niigata on 10 October 2016, and later at the Nagoya Trade & Industry Center in Nagoya on 23 October. What makes the Japanese print stand out is the special 20th Anniversary Festa event logo stamped on the card. This unique feature has made it one of the most coveted Mewtwo cards ever released. Are you still looking for this card? It is available on our site right now with limited copies available!
9) Warm Pikachu
Exclusively and only available in Japan, these four versions of the Warm Pikachu XY-P promotional cards were released as part of the Uniqlo Kids × Pokémon Card Game XY campaign, which ran throughout December 2014. One version of the card was included and given out with any order of one of six children’s Pokémon Heat Tech shirts from participating Uniqlo stores located in Japan. All versions of this card feature the Uniqlo logo in the bottom left corner of the card.
The Uniqlo Kids x Pokémon Card Game XY campaign featured a collection of six Heat Tech children’s shirts, each with designs inspired by the Gaia Volcano [XY5] and Tidal Storm [XY5] dual expansion set. Over time, the four promotional cards released during this campaign have become increasingly rare, with some now being difficult to find even in the Japanese market or card shops.
8) Poncho-wearing Pikachu
Card Number: 274/XY-P
Where To Buy: SNKRDUNK
Like the Warm Pikachu, the Poncho-wearing Pikachu cards were exclusive releases in Japan. Three different prints of this card were made available, each tied to a specific campaign or event. The first and most common print, numbered 203/XY-P, was distributed as part of the Pikachu Mega Campaign, which began on 12 December 2015 at participating Pokémon Centers across Japan. Customers who purchased at least 1,000 JPY (~1,130 JPY / ~US$7.80 today) worth of eligible TCG products during the campaign received the card for free.
The second print, numbered 275/XY-P, was one of two cards awarded to players who earned 3 Play Points by taking part in events during the Pokémon Center Mega Battle. This event was held at various Pokémon Centers and Pokémon Stores between 23 July and 31 August 2016.
The third and rarest print, numbered 274/XY-P, was the other card given to players who also accumulated 3 Play Points during the same Mega Battle event. All three versions feature artwork by Kouki Saitou and include the Pokémon Center logo positioned at the bottom right of the illustration.
7) Pretend Gyarados & Magikarp Pikachu
These two cards were available in the Pretend Magikarp & Pretend Gyarados Pikachu Special Box, released on 26 June 2015 to commemorate the opening of Pokémon Center Hiroshima.
Much like the items released for the rebranding of Pokémon Center Mega Tokyo, this special box features Pikachu dressed in ponchos inspired by Pokémon Center Hiroshima’s mascots—Gyarados and its pre-evolution, Magikarp. The box includes a variety of themed items, such as two exclusive Full Art promotional cards, a set of 62 card sleeves, a deck case, and a long card storage box. Additionally, it comes with five Bandit Ring [XY7] booster packs.
These two adorable cards have become those few cards Pikachu collectors wish to obtain but often can’t due to the price in the secondary market. Are you one of those collectors? You may keep an eye on our site to get a copy when there is one that is a good deal for you!
6) Charizard ex
Card Number: 276/XY-P
Where To Buy: SNKRDUNK
This Full Art Charizard ex XY-P promotional card, illustrated by Hitoshi Ariga, was included with the Pokémon Card Game Art Collection book, released on 16 September 2016. The book quickly became a must-have for fans and collectors alike.
Beyond the exclusive promo card, the Pokémon Card Game Art Collection is packed with rich content related to the Pokémon TCG—featuring stunning artwork, professional drawing tutorials, a complete Pikachu Card Collection, and much more. It’s often described as the Pokémon TCG’s very own encyclopedia. Unsurprisingly, both the book and the included Charizard card have become fan favorites and remain highly sought-after to this day.
5) Poncho-wearing Pikachu (Mega Charizard X & Y)
Released on 1 January 2016 were the Mega Charizard X and Mega Charizard Y Poncho-wearing Pikachu Special boxes—two separate boxes that contain both of these XY-P promotional cards separately.
The Mega Charizard X Poncho-wearing Pikachu Special Box and the Mega Charizard Y Poncho-wearing Pikachu Special Box both contain several items featuring Pikachu dressed in a Mega Charizard poncho—one of Mega Charizard X, one of Mega Charizard Y, according to the box’s name. Each box includes a set of 62 card sleeves, a deck case, a long card box that can hold up to 720 cards, and two promotional cards. One of the cards is a holofoil reprint of a previously released Pikachu card, while the other is an exclusive Full Art Pikachu card. Additionally, the box is packaged with two Rage of the Broken Heavens [XY9] booster packs, one Emerald Break [XY6] booster pack, one Phantom Gate [XY4] booster pack, and one Rising Fist [XY3] booster pack.
These two XY-P promotional cards graded PSA 10 command four-digit prices in the secondary market. Their values have experienced significant fluctuations over the months and years, rising and falling frequently. Due to their rarity and high price, both cards have become “Holy Grails” for many collectors.
4) Mario & Luigi Pikachu
It is no surprise that these four XY-P promotional cards made it into the top 5 in the list, right?
Released on 29 October 2016, the XY-P promotional cards were featured in the Mario Pikachu Special Box and the Luigi Pikachu Special Box, respectively.
The Mario Pikachu Special Box contains a set of 64 card sleeves, a deck case, a card box for storage, and two promotional cards showcasing Pikachu in Mario’s outfit. Similarly, the Luigi Pikachu Special Box also includes a set of 64 card sleeves, a deck case, a card box for storage, and two promotional cards: one Regular and one Full Art print of Pikachu, this time dressed as Luigi. With the charming Pikachu dressed in Mario and Luigi outfits, these four cards have become increasingly difficult to obtain. This is largely due to their rising prices over time, particularly for the Full Art versions.
3) Pikachu
Card Number: 279/XY-P
Where To Buy: SNKRDUNK
Finally, we have come down to the top 3 best XY-P promotional cards ever distributed throughout the entirety of the Pokémon TCG’s sixth generation.
This Pikachu XY-P promo card was distributed to attendees of the 20th Anniversary Festa, which took place at Toki Messe in Niigata on 10 October 2016, and at the Nagoya Trade & Industry Center in Nagoya on 23 October 2016. The card showcases the 20th Anniversary Festa event logo, along with Pikachu and the Gen 1 starter Pokémon in the background.
The value of this card has increased significantly because of its artwork. Featuring the Gen 1 starters—Charmander, Bulbasaur, and Squirtle—in the background, it evokes a sense of nostalgia for Pokémon collectors and players alike. Consequently, the card’s price has broken the US$10,000 barrier, making it one of the rarest and most difficult XY-P promotional cards to acquire due to its affordability.
2) Giovanni’s Scheme
Card Number: 277/XY-P
Where To Buy: SNKRDUNK
Giovanni’s Scheme is an XY-P promotional card included in the Team Rocket 20th Anniversary Special Case. This card features artwork that resonates with fans and collectors, contributing to its value and significance within the Pokémon TCG community.
This card is among the most sought-after Team Rocket cards by many collectors. This card stands out for its artistic representation of Team Rocket, making it a cherished item in the Pokémon TCG community. Its combination of nostalgia and collectibility ensures its place as a notable card as part of the Pokémon TCG’s 20th Anniversary celebration.
A copy of this card graded at PSA 10 commands a price above US$10,000. If you’re aiming to add this card to your collection, be prepared to spend significantly. With the upcoming The Glory of Team Rocket [SV10] expansion on the horizon, will the value of this card increase even further? Only time will tell.
1) Here Comes Team Rocket!
Card Number: 278/XY-P
Where To Buy: SNKRDUNK
Topping our list of all the XY-P promotional cards there are is this one—the Holy Grail from the 20th Anniversary Team Rocket Special Case. Much like the Giovanni’s Scheme promotional card, this Here Comes Team Rocket! promo was also included in the exclusive case, showcasing the iconic Team Rocket trio—Jessie, James, and Meowth.
For many collectors and Pokémon TCG fans, this iconic Team Rocket trio is the epitome of nostalgia, rekindling memories of their mischievous adventures in the anime and the golden age of the TCG. It’s no surprise that demand for this card was high from the moment it was released.
Just like its counterpart, with the upcoming The Glory of Team Rocket [SV10] expansion on the horizon, will the value of this card increase even further due to the amount of nostalgia it holds for many Pokémon TCG fans and collectors out there?
Follow us on:
More SNKRDUNK Features:
A List of Our Top High-Value Charizard PSA 10 Cards by Generation
Best English Pokémon Booster Packs to Buy for Rare Cards, by Generation: A Guide to Big Pulls, Part 2
Top 10 Pokémon TCG Illustrators of All Time and Their Greatest Hits
The 7 Best-Selling Cards from Heat Wave Arena [SV9a] on the SNKRDUNK App
Best Venusaur Pokémon Cards by Generation
-
With the Best Poison-Type Pokémon TCG Cards, “Toxicity” Is a Good ThingRELEASES August 8, 2024 -
Celebrate Singles’ Day With SNKRDUNK: 7 Days, 7 Giveaways, and More Than 7 Winners!RELEASES November 11, 2024 -
Tsuburaya Productions Unveils Ultraman Card Game “Guardians of the Earth” Booster PackRELEASES November 11, 2024 -
Discover the Holiday Magic at SNKRDUNK: 7 Days of Coupon Giveaways!RELEASES December 13, 2024
-
With the Best Poison-Type Pokémon TCG Cards, “Toxicity” Is a Good ThingRELEASES August 8, 2024
-
Celebrate Singles’ Day With SNKRDUNK: 7 Days, 7 Giveaways, and More Than 7 Winners!RELEASES November 11, 2024
-
Tsuburaya Productions Unveils Ultraman Card Game “Guardians of the Earth” Booster PackRELEASES November 11, 2024
-
Discover the Holiday Magic at SNKRDUNK: 7 Days of Coupon Giveaways!RELEASES December 13, 2024
![Heat Wave Arena [SV9a] Card List](https://snkrdunk.s3.ap-northeast-1.amazonaws.com/en/magazine/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/27123357/Feature-poster-150x150.webp)
![[Pokémon TCG] Incineroar (SM-P Promotional Cards 113/SM-P) [Release Date/Price/Where To Buy]](https://snkrdunk.s3.ap-northeast-1.amazonaws.com/en/magazine/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/11101932/Pokemon-Daily-Feat-IMG-Template-2.webp)
![ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 10.1 “Midnight” [Release Date/Price/Where To Buy]](https://snkrdunk.s3.ap-northeast-1.amazonaws.com/en/magazine/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/11174033/1-60.webp)
![adidas Superstar II “Chicago” [Release Date/Price/Where To Buy]](https://snkrdunk.s3.ap-northeast-1.amazonaws.com/en/magazine/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/11165224/2-26.webp)
![New Balance Basketball “Flavors” Pack [Release Date/Price/Where To Buy]](https://snkrdunk.s3.ap-northeast-1.amazonaws.com/en/magazine/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/11153707/1-57.webp)
![Kith x adidas Predator Megaride [Release Date/Price/Where To Buy]](https://snkrdunk.s3.ap-northeast-1.amazonaws.com/en/magazine/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/11155241/Kith-adidas-Predator-Megaride-Spring-2025.webp)