Hey there, Trainers. Boy, do we have some McAmazing news for you. Guess what’s returning to spice up your Happy Meals? That’s right, Pokémon cards! Starting September 12, 2023, and running until October 16, McDonald’s is partnering with Pokémon to bring some collectible joy to your fast-food experience.
Before we dive into the juicy details, let’s take a trip down memory lane. McDonald’s and Pokémon have had a friendship longer than a Wailord is tall. Since 2011, the fast-food giant has run eight Pokémon card promotions in the U.S. What makes these cards unique? They feature a special “confetti” holographic pattern and a unique set symbol, making them somewhat of a collector’s Holy Grail. Sure, you get ’em “free” with a Happy Meal, but their scarcity and collectibility have propelled them to be worth quite a bit in secondary markets.
Now, let’s talk about this year’s main event. According to leaks (because where would we be without our trusty leakers?), this year’s McDonald’s Pokémon cards will feature 14 reprints from the Scarlet and Violet base set. Additionally, we’ll get a special Pikachu card from the Paldea Evolved set. Each Happy Meal will include a four-card booster pack featuring one holographic card. Oh, and let’s not forget, a Pokémon-themed toy will also tag along. It’s like Christmas in September, folks.
But hold onto your Poké Balls, because this year’s offering will include not just Pikachu but also other beloved characters like Sprigatito, Fuecoco, Quaxly, Cetitan, and Klawf. The cards will have both a confetti holofoil rarity AND holographic card borders. This marks the first McDonald’s promotion for the new Scarlet and Violet era of Pokémon, making it an especially noteworthy event for collectors.
Look, we get it – this promo is a little bit like a Master Ball: incredibly enticing but also potentially hard to get. With the promotion running only until October 16, you might want to strategize your McDonald’s visits. Whether you’re in it for the cards, the toys, or just an excuse to eat more fries, mark your calendars and ready your Trainer wallets.
That’s the lowdown, Trainers. Will you be hitting up McDonald’s to complete your Scarlet and Violet sets? Let us know in the comments. And as always, stay tuned for more exciting Pokémon GO updates.
