Dual-Type Cards Arrive: What This Means for Your Collection

A New Era for Pokémon TCG Pocket

The landscape of the Pokémon Trading Card Game is shifting once again. According to reports from the recent PokémonXP event in San Francisco, The Pokémon Company is set to introduce a game-changing mechanic to the Pokémon TCG Pocket mobile game this October: dual-type cards. This announcement has sent ripples of excitement through the community, as it promises to fundamentally alter deck-building strategies and collection priorities for players and collectors alike.

The first card confirmed to lead this new lineup is Mega Mewtwo X ex, which will debut as a Psychic/Fighting-type Pokémon. This marks a significant departure from the traditional single-type format that has defined the game for years. Alongside Mega Mewtwo X ex, the expansion will also feature first-partner Pokémon as ex cards, including Piplup ex and Fuecoco ex. For collectors, this isn't just a gameplay update; it represents a new tier of rarity and desirability that will likely become a focal point for future grading submissions.

Why Collectors Should Pay Attention

Whenever a new card type is introduced, the market tends to react with heightened interest. Historically, cards that introduce new mechanics or feature unique type combinations often become the 'chase' items of their respective sets. As these dual-type cards enter the ecosystem, we expect to see a surge in demand for high-grade copies. However, with the grading market currently facing significant backlogs—as noted in recent reports regarding PSA’s struggle to manage massive submission volumes—collectors need to be more selective than ever about which cards they send for professional authentication.

The Importance of Pre-Grading

Before you commit to the time and expense of a professional grading submission, it is vital to understand the condition of your raw cards. Professional graders evaluate cards based on four primary pillars: centering, corners, edges, and surface. A card that looks perfect to the naked eye may have subtle flaws that prevent it from achieving the coveted 'Gem Mint' status, potentially making the grading fee a poor investment.

This is where objective analysis becomes your best friend. At GradingCardboard, we provide a free centering tool that allows you to measure your card's alignment against industry standards before you ever pay a submission fee. For a deeper dive, our £1 AI Grading Reports offer a comprehensive breakdown of your card's condition, helping you decide if a card is truly worth the cost of a professional slab. By using AI to identify potential surface scratches or edge wear early, you can save yourself from the frustration of receiving a lower-than-expected grade from the major houses.

Takeaway for Collectors

As we approach the October release of these dual-type cards, keep these three tips in mind:

1. Prioritise Quality: With new, high-demand cards, the market will be flooded with submissions. Only send in cards that have a genuine chance at a high grade.
2. Use Technology: Don't guess your card's condition. Use digital tools to assess centering and surface quality before paying for professional services.
3. Stay Informed: Keep an eye on how these dual-type cards perform in the meta, as gameplay utility often drives long-term value for modern Pokémon cards.