With Pokémon’s 30th Anniversary on the horizon in 2026, the spotlight is once again on the original starter Pokémon. The First Partner collection is seeing strong demand, coinciding with the release of the 30th Anniversary expansion, which has brought these beloved creatures to the forefront of tabletop conversations. This list ranks the top 10 First Partner Pokémon cards based on their artwork, affordability, and overall impact.
For those seeking the 30th Celebration boosters, Amazon is recommended for Elite Trainer Box preorders, offering a more reasonable price point with invites to be sent out soon.
The Top 10 First Partner Pokémon Cards
10. Primarina — ME05: Pitch Black #088/084
This final-stage Alolan starter features artwork by satoma that evokes a glittering beach and a stage-worthy spotlight for the siren Pokémon. It is available on TCGplayer for $4.49.
9. Mudkip — ME: Mega Evolution Promo #057
Saboteri’s artwork for this promo card captures Mudkip in an adorable pose, with subtle Generation 3 lore details integrated into the background. This card is priced at around $20.56 on TCGplayer.
8. Charizard (Classic Collection #4/102)
Mitsuhiro Arita’s iconic Base Set Charizard, particularly the Shadowless variant, is a nostalgic cornerstone of the hobby. The 30th Anniversary reprints make this legendary card more accessible, though raw copies still command around $1,160 on TCGplayer depending on condition.
7. Piplup (Secret) - SM - Cosmic Eclipse (SM12)
This Special Illustration Rare from Cosmic Eclipse depicts Sinnoh's Dawn and Piplup at the Canalave City docks, illustrated by Tomomi Kaneko. It is a popular card among Generation 4 fans, fetching approximately $88.24 on TCGPlayer.
6. Venusaur & Snivy-GX — SM Promos #SM229
Artist Yuka Morii's unique technique of sculpting Pokémon from clay before photographing them is showcased in this tag team card. The physical sculptures themselves have been displayed, highlighting the tactile craftsmanship. This card is valued at around $146.63 on TCGPlayer.
5. Scorbunny — ME: Ascended Heroes #225/217
Yuu Nishida’s artwork for the Galar starter Scorbunny depicts the Pokémon resting peacefully on a bed of leaves. This card is notably affordable, priced at just $9.26 on TCGplayer.
4. Tepig — SV: White Flare #096/086
Orca’s illustration for Unova’s Tepig features warm, golden lighting as the Pokémon warms its belly in autumn leaves, creating a cozy and smile-inducing image. A copy can be found on TCGplayer for approximately $52.50.
3. Torchic Star — EX Team Rocket Returns #108/109
This Generation 3 Gold Star card by Masakazu Fukuda features artwork that breaks free from the traditional frame. Considered an ultra-rare collectible, copies of this card average around $4,500.00 on LimitlessTCG.
2. Pikachu ex — ME: Ascended Heroes #276/217
Recognizing Pikachu as potentially the very first First Partner from games like Pokémon Yellow, this card features USUMON’s electric-charged art style, making the mascot pop off the foil. It commands a market price of $935.99 on TCGplayer.
1. Greninja ex - 148/128 - ME: 30th Celebration
This standout card from the 30th Anniversary set, illustrated by GIDORA, features Greninja with a playful street-style vibe and hidden Eevee and Lucario in the background. It is currently priced around $70.99 on TCGPlayer and is considered a fun chase card.