With the release of Pokemon TCG Pocket, a brand-new app aimed at bringing the Pokemon Trading Card Game (TCG) to a mobile-friendly format, players and collectors are diving into the digital world of Pokemon cards like never before. The first set, titled Genetic Apex, focuses heavily on Generation 1 (Kanto) Pokemon, offering reimagined versions of beloved creatures, gym leaders, and exclusively designed cards in each booster pack.
In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best Pokemon TCG Pocket cards from the Genetic Apex set, delving into the Pokemon’s role in the Kanto region, the talented illustrators behind the cards, and where you can find each card in the app. For fans of Pokemon TCG classics like Charizard and Gengar.
Bulbasaur (Full Art)
- Booster Pack: Mewtwo Pack
- Illustrator: Ryota Murayama
- Other Versions: 2 other versions in Pokemon TCG Pocket
Bulbasaur, the beloved Grass/Poison-type starter of the Kanto region, is a fan favorite and gets special treatment in Pokemon TCG Pocket. This Full Art Bulbasaur card is part of the Mewtwo Pack and is beautifully illustrated by Ryota Murayama, known for their detailed and vibrant work in the Pokemon TCG. Murayama’s rendition captures Bulbasaur in a lush, natural setting, reflecting its strong connection to nature and plants.
As the first Pokemon in the National Pokédex, Bulbasaur has always held a special place in the hearts of fans, and this card brings that nostalgia into a new digital era.
Lapras (Full Art)
- Booster Pack: Charizard Pack
- Illustrator: Haru Akasoko
- Other Versions: 1 other version in Pokemon TCG Pocket
Lapras, the Water/Ice-type Pokemon from Kanto, appears as a majestic Full Art card in the Charizard Pack. Haru Akasoko, an artist known for their serene and elegant depictions, illustrates Lapras in a way that emphasizes its grace and calm nature, possibly echoing its role as a gentle ferrying Pokemon in the Pokemon games.
Lapras has been a vital part of Kanto’s Sea Routes and has featured prominently in both the games and anime. This card not only highlights Lapras’s role in the Kanto region but also its timeless popularity as a Pokemon that represents the bond between trainers and their Pokemon.
Pikachu ex (Immersive Art)
- Booster Pack: Pikachu Pack
- Illustrator: Ryota Murayama
- Other Versions: 2 other versions in Pokemon TCG Pocket
No collection of best Pokemon cards is complete without mentioning Pikachu. The Immersive Art Pikachu ex card, available exclusively in the Pikachu Pack, is an electrifying addition. Illustrated once again by Ryota Murayama, Pikachu is captured mid-attack, with vivid details and immersive visual effects that make it appear as if Pikachu is leaping off the card, a perfect nod to its energetic and powerful persona.
As the face of the Pokemon franchise, Pikachu needs no introduction, and this card only solidifies its place as one of the most desirable cards in Pokemon TCG Pocket.
Gyarados (Full Art)
- Booster Pack: Pikachu Pack
- Illustrator: Nurikabe
- Other Versions: 1 other version in Pokemon TCG Pocket
Gyarados, known for its ferocious strength and intimidating appearance, is a showstopper in this Full Art card from the Pikachu Pack. Illustrated by Nurikabe, this card reflects Gyarados’s power as one of Kanto’s most dangerous Water-type Pokemon. Gyarados’s evolution from the harmless Magikarp to a raging sea monster makes it a symbol of perseverance in the Pokemon series.
The card’s artwork reflects Gyarados in all its glory, surrounded by crashing waves, a perfect depiction of its might in battle. Fans of powerful and intimidating Pokemon will find this card to be a must-have in their digital collection.
For more on the most great Gyarados cards, be sure to check out Gyarados’ Best Cards.
Charmander (Full Art)
- Booster Pack: Charizard Pack
- Illustrator: GIDORA
- Other Versions: 1 other version in Pokemon TCG Pocket
Charmander, the fiery Kanto starter, holds a place of honor in the Charizard Pack as a Full Art card. The artwork by GIDORA brings the playful and determined personality of Charmander to life. With flames burning brightly from its tail, Charmander embodies the spirit of adventure and growth, preparing to evolve into one of the most iconic Pokemon in the series—Charizard.
As one of the original starters, Charmander’s role in the Kanto region is legendary, and GIDORA’s detailed art perfectly captures the heart of this fan-favorite Pokemon.
Alakazam (Full Art)
- Booster Pack: Available in all packs
- Illustrator: AKIRA EGAWA
- Other Versions: 1 other version in Pokemon TCG Pocket
Alakazam, the Psychic-type powerhouse of Kanto, appears as a Full Art card in all three booster packs. Illustrated by AKIRA EGAWA, Alakazam is depicted wielding its iconic spoons, symbolizing its incredible psychic powers. EGAWA’s work brings a sense of elegance and intellect to Alakazam, enhancing the Pokemon’s reputation for having one of the highest IQs in the Pokemon world.
Alakazam is an essential part of any competitive Pokemon team, and this card’s powerful imagery and deep connection to Kanto’s lore make it a standout in Pokemon TCG Pocket.
Misty (Full Art)
- Booster Pack: Pikachu Pack
- Illustrator: Sanosuke Sakuma
- Other Versions: 1 other version in Pokemon TCG Pocket
Misty, the Cerulean City Gym Leader and a pivotal character in the Kanto region, is featured as a Full Art trainer card in the Pikachu Pack. Sanosuke Sakuma illustrates Misty in her classic gym leader attire, surrounded by Water-type Pokemon. The artwork showcases her commanding presence and unwavering determination as a gym leader, giving fans a nostalgic look at one of the original members of Ash’s traveling party.
Misty’s influence in the Pokemon series, combined with her role in the Kanto region, makes this card a must-have for those looking to complete their Gym Leader collection.
Gengar (Full Art)
- Booster Pack: Mewtwo Pack
- Illustrator: NC Empire
- Other Versions: 2 other versions in Pokemon TCG Pocket
Gengar, the mischievous Ghost/Poison-type Pokemon, is one of the most beloved Pokemon from Kanto. This Full Art card, illustrated by NC Empire, shows Gengar in its eerie glory, with dark, swirling mists surrounding it. Gengar’s playful yet menacing grin perfectly matches its role as a trickster in both the games and anime.
To dive deeper into Gengar’s best cards, check out our Gengar’s Best Cards for a complete rundown of this ghostly Pokemon’s most iconic appearances in the TCG.
Machamp ex (Full Art)
- Booster Pack: Charizard Pack
- Illustrator: AKIRA EGAWA
- Other Versions: 2 other versions in Pokemon TCG Pocket
Machamp, the four-armed Fighting-type Pokemon, receives a powerful Full Art card in the Charizard Pack, illustrated by AKIRA EGAWA. Known for its raw strength and brawler status, this card portrays Machamp in the midst of a powerful strike, emphasizing its physical prowess. As one of the most recognizable Fighting-type Pokemon from Kanto, Machamp remains a staple in both competitive play and casual collections.
Charizard ex (Immersive Art)
- Booster Pack: Charizard Pack
- Illustrator: Kantaro
- Other Versions: 2 other versions in Pokemon TCG Pocket
Finally, we have the iconic Charizard ex in its Immersive Art form, available in the Charizard Pack. Illustrated by Kantaro, this card showcases Charizard mid-flight, engulfed in flames, and ready to unleash its powerful Flamethrower. The artwork is immersive, making it feel as though Charizard is breaking free from the card’s borders. It’s the crown jewel of the set and an absolute must-have for Charizard fans.
For more on the most valuable and stunning Charizard cards, be sure to check out Charizard’s Best Cards.
FAQs
Pokemon TCG Pocket is a newly released mobile app that brings the Pokemon Trading Card Game to your smartphone or tablet. The app features digital booster packs, exclusive card designs, and re-imagined artwork from previous Pokemon TCG sets.
Genetic Apex is the first set released for Pokemon TCG Pocket, featuring a heavy focus on Generation 1 (Kanto) Pokemon. The set includes 226 cards, split into exclusive cards found in three different booster packs: Pikachu, Charizard, and Mewtwo packs.
Full Art cards showcase a Pokemon’s artwork across the entire card without traditional borders, giving a detailed, vivid presentation. Immersive Art cards push the boundaries of traditional card design, making the Pokemon appear as though they are leaping off the card, offering a more dynamic, action-packed feel.
Unlike traditional Pokemon TCG sets, Pokemon TCG Pocket distributes exclusive cards across different booster packs. For example, Pikachu ex is only available in the Pikachu pack, while Charizard ex can only be found in the Charizard pack. This adds a unique layer of strategy for collectors trying to complete their digital sets.
Ryota Murayama, known for vibrant illustrations of Pikachu ex and Bulbasaur. Haru Akasoko, who created the serene artwork for Lapras. AKIRA EGAWA, who brought to life both Alakazam and Machamp ex. These illustrators are highly regarded for their contributions to the Pokemon TCG.
Conclusion
The Genetic Apex set in Pokemon TCG Pocket is a celebration of Generation 1 Pokemon, featuring stunning artwork by some of the best illustrators in the TCG world. Whether you’re hunting for Pikachu ex or trying to complete your Charmander collection, this set brings new life to beloved Kanto Pokemon. Happy collecting!