First Partner Illustration Collection Guide (Series 1, 2 & 3): Everything You Need to Know
Pokémon's 30th Anniversary Celebration Starts Here
For many Pokémon fans, their journey began with a starter Pokémon.
Whether it was Bulbasaur, Charmander, Squirtle, Chikorita, Treecko, Rowlet, or another favourite partner, starter Pokémon have always held a special place in the hearts of collectors.
To celebrate Pokémon's 30th Anniversary, Pokémon introduced the First Partner Illustration Collection, a unique collector-focused product centred around starter Pokémon and exclusive artwork.
Unlike traditional booster boxes where collectors chase the biggest hits and rarest cards, the First Partner Illustration Collection focuses on something different: completing a collection of beautifully illustrated starter Pokémon promos spanning multiple generations.
If you're considering picking up Series 1, waiting for Series 2, or planning to complete the entire collection, here's everything you need to know.
What Is the First Partner Illustration Collection?
The First Partner Illustration Collection is a special English Pokémon TCG product featuring exclusive illustration promo cards based on starter Pokémon from multiple generations.
Each collection contains:
- 1 First Partner Illustration promo pack
- 3 randomly selected illustration promo cards inside the promo pack
- 2 Pokémon TCG booster packs
- 1 sticker sheet
The main attraction is the exclusive illustration promo cards.
These cards feature unique artwork and are designed specifically for the First Partner Illustration Collection, making them highly appealing to collectors who enjoy starter Pokémon, Pokémon artwork, and completion-based collecting.
Unlike most Pokémon collection products where the promo cards are visible before purchase, the First Partner Illustration Collection adds a surprise element.
Collectors won't know which illustration promos they receive until they open the promo pack.
This creates an exciting opening experience while also introducing a completion challenge for collectors trying to assemble the entire set.
Ready to start your collection? Browse our available First Partner Illustration Collection Series 1 products and begin your journey with the iconic Kanto, Sinnoh and Alola starters.
How Does the Collection Work?
The First Partner Illustration Collection is divided into three separate releases.
Each series contains a pool of 9 possible illustration promo cards based on starter Pokémon from three different generations.
Inside every collection is a dedicated promo pack containing 3 randomly selected illustration promo cards from that series.
This means collectors are not guaranteed to receive every promo card in a single collection.
Instead, completing a full series may require:
- Opening multiple collections
- Trading duplicates with other collectors
- Purchasing missing cards individually
This combination of collecting and randomness is what makes the First Partner Illustration Collection unique.
While the product is heavily focused on starter Pokémon artwork and collection building, there is still an element of excitement every time a promo pack is opened.
Looking to complete the set? Check out our Complete First Partner Illustration Collection Checklist to track which promos you're still missing.
Series 1 Starter Pokémon
Series 1 features starters from three Pokémon generations.
Kanto
- Bulbasaur
- Charmander
- Squirtle
Sinnoh
- Turtwig
- Chimchar
- Piplup
Alola
- Rowlet
- Litten
- Popplio
This creates a pool of 9 possible illustration promo cards.
For many collectors, the biggest attraction is the inclusion of the original Kanto starters. Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Squirtle remain some of the most recognisable Pokémon ever created and continue to be fan favourites nearly three decades after Pokémon first launched.
Looking to collect Bulbasaur, Charmander, Squirtle, Rowlet, Chimchar or Piplup? Secure your First Partner Illustration Collection Series 1 before moving on to later releases.
If you're wondering why so many collectors are prioritising this release, read our guide on Why Series 1 Could Be the Most Important First Partner Illustration Collection Release.
Series 2 Starter Pokémon
Series 2 introduces another 9 illustration promos featuring starters from:
Johto
- Chikorita
- Cyndaquil
- Totodile
Unova
- Snivy
- Tepig
- Oshawott
Galar
- Grookey
- Scorbunny
- Sobble
As with Series 1, collectors will receive 3 randomly selected promos from the available pool.
At the time of writing, some early imported Series 2 products have already appeared on livestreams and secondary markets at prices higher than Series 1.
However, early market premiums often reflect limited availability rather than long-term collector demand. As wider supply becomes available, prices may stabilise.
Series 3 Starter Pokémon
Series 3 is expected to complete the remaining starter Pokémon generations and finish the overall collection.
Once all three series are released, collectors will have the opportunity to build a complete starter Pokémon illustration collection covering Pokémon's history across multiple generations.
Hoenn
- Treecko
- Torchic
- Mudkip
Kalos
- Chespin
- Fennekin
- Froakie
Paldea
- Sprigatito
- Fuecoco
- Quaxly
(Japanese version. English version not yet released at time of writing)
Why This Product Is Different From Booster Boxes
Many collectors initially compare the First Partner Illustration Collection to a booster box.
In reality, they serve very different purposes.
Booster Boxes
Collectors buy booster boxes to chase:
- Special Illustration Rares
- Hyper Rares
- Secret Rares
- Valuable chase cards
The excitement comes from pull rates and luck.
First Partner Illustration Collection
Collectors are chasing:
- Starter Pokémon
- Exclusive artwork
- Collection completion
- Nostalgia
Instead of asking:
"Did I pull the chase card?"
Collectors are asking:
"Which starter promos did I get?"
A Collector Product With Ripping Mechanics
One reason the First Partner Illustration Collection has become so popular is that it appeals to both collectors and people who enjoy opening Pokémon products.
Traditional promo collections usually show you exactly what you are getting before purchase.
The First Partner Illustration Collection works differently.
Because the illustration promos are hidden inside a dedicated promo pack, every opening becomes a reveal.
Will you get the Kanto starters?
Will you finally pull the Rowlet, Piplup, or Chimchar you are missing?
Will you end up with duplicates that can be traded towards completing your set?
This blend of collecting, nostalgia, and surprise gives the product a very different feel compared to most Pokémon collection boxes currently available.
Why Series 1 Is Getting So Much Attention
At the time of writing, Series 1 remains one of the most discussed releases in the collection.
One reason is simple.
Series 1 contains the original Kanto starters:
- Bulbasaur
- Charmander
- Squirtle
These three Pokémon are among the most recognisable and beloved Pokémon in the franchise.
For many collectors, they represent the beginning of their Pokémon journey.
While every collector has their favourite generation, few starter lineups can match the nostalgia and popularity of the original Kanto trio.
Series 1 also includes strong fan favourites such as Rowlet, Piplup, and Chimchar, making it an appealing release even beyond the Kanto starters.
Why Some Collectors Are Prioritising Series 1 Before Series 2
As Series 2 begins appearing through early imports and prerelease stock, some collectors are focusing on securing Series 1 first.
There are several reasons for this.
First, collectors who eventually decide to complete the entire collection will still need Series 1.
If you're planning to complete the entire First Partner Illustration Collection, many collectors choose to start with Series 1 before focusing on later releases.
Second, many fans consider the Kanto starters to be the most desirable trio across all generations.
Third, once Series 2 and Series 3 become widely available, new collectors may enter the market and begin searching for older releases.
Historically, earlier releases in multi-part collections often become harder to find over time as collectors attempt to back-complete their sets.
Of course, no one can accurately predict future prices, but Series 1 has several factors working in its favour from a collector demand perspective.
Will One Collection Complete the Set?
No.
Since promo cards are randomly distributed, some collectors choose to open multiple collections to improve their chances of completing the full set.
Collectors typically complete the set by:
- Opening multiple collections
- Trading duplicates
- Purchasing missing cards individually
This completion aspect is one of the reasons many collectors enjoy the product.
Not sure how many collections you'll need? Read our article on How Many First Partner Illustration Collections Do You Need to Complete a Set?
Should You Open or Keep It Sealed?
There is no right answer.
Open It If:
- You want specific starter promos
- You enjoy completing collections
- You plan to collect all three series
Keep It Sealed If:
- You collect sealed Pokémon products
- You enjoy display pieces
- You prefer long-term sealed collections
Some collectors choose to do both by opening some collections while keeping others sealed.
Still deciding? Our detailed Open vs Sealed Guide breaks down the pros and cons of both approaches.
Who Is This Product For?
The First Partner Illustration Collection is ideal for:
Starter Pokémon Fans
If starter Pokémon have always been your favourites, this collection was made for you.
Artwork Collectors
The exclusive illustrations are the primary attraction.
Completion Collectors
Collectors who enjoy building complete sets will appreciate the challenge of assembling all starter promos.
Pokémon 30th Anniversary Collectors
As part of Pokémon's 30th Anniversary celebrations, this collection offers a unique way to celebrate Pokémon's history through its most iconic partners.
Is the First Partner Illustration Collection Worth Buying?
For collectors who love starter Pokémon, the answer is often yes.
The collection combines:
- Exclusive artwork
- Starter Pokémon nostalgia
- Collection-building challenges
- Multiple series releases
- Pokémon's 30th Anniversary significance
It is not intended to replace booster boxes.
Instead, it offers a completely different collecting experience focused on artwork, nostalgia, and completion.
Explore our current availability of First Partner Illustration Collection products and start building your starter Pokémon collection today.
For a deeper breakdown of who this product is best suited for, read Is the First Partner Illustration Collection Worth Buying?
Final Thoughts
The First Partner Illustration Collection is shaping up to be one of the most unique Pokémon collector products released for Pokémon's 30th Anniversary.
With three separate series planned and starter Pokémon from across multiple generations, it appeals to both longtime Pokémon fans and newer collectors.
If you're planning to complete the full collection, Series 1 is the natural place to start.
After all, every Pokémon adventure begins with choosing your first partner.
Start Your First Partner Illustration Collection Today
Whether you're chasing the iconic Kanto starters, completing every generation of starter Pokémon, or simply enjoying Pokémon's 30th Anniversary celebrations, the First Partner Illustration Collection offers a unique collecting experience unlike traditional booster boxes.
👉 Shop First Partner Illustration Collection Series 1
👉 View Our Complete First Partner Illustration Collection Guide
Continue Your First Partner Illustration Collection Journey
Related Guides:
- Complete First Partner Illustration Collection Checklist
- Why Series 1 Could Be the Most Important Release
- How Many Collections Do You Need to Complete the Set?
- Should You Open or Keep It Sealed?
- Is the First Partner Illustration Collection Worth Buying?