EX Team Rocket Returns: The Darkest Set in Pokémon History
When EX Team Rocket Returns launched in 2004, it took the Pokémon TCG in a bold new direction. Featuring Dark Pokémon, Gold Stars, and powerful EX cards, this set became an instant favorite among collectors and competitive players alike.
Fast forward to 2025, and it’s now one of the most sought-after EX-era sets—especially with its Torchic, Mudkip, and Treecko Gold Stars commanding premium prices.
📦 Set Overview
- Release Date: November 2004
- Total Cards: 109 (+1 secret rare)
- Set Symbol: “R” Team Rocket logo
- Notable Mechanics: Dark Pokémon, Rocket’s EX cards, Gold Stars
This set reintroduced Dark Pokémon, a fan-favorite mechanic from the original Team Rocket set, while also featuring some of the most iconic EX cards ever printed.
💎 Chase Cards
🔥 Torchic Gold Star (108/109)
- One of the lowest-population Gold Stars
- PSA 10 value: $7,500 – $9,000
- Extremely difficult to find in mint condition
💧 Mudkip Gold Star (107/109)
- Another highly sought-after Gold Star starter
- PSA 10 value: ~$5,000+
- Less common than Torchic due to print scarcity
🌿 Treecko Gold Star (109/109 – Secret Rare)
- The final Gold Star starter in the set
- PSA 10 value: ~$4,500
- Features shiny Treecko, making it a Hoenn-era grail
🚀 EX Pokémon Highlights
EX Team Rocket Returns introduced some of the most menacing EX cards ever:
| Pokémon EX | Estimated PSA 10 Value |
|---|---|
| Rocket’s Mewtwo EX | ~$2,000 |
| Rocket’s Scizor EX | ~$1,500 |
| Rocket’s Snorlax EX | ~$1,200 |
| Rocket’s Zapdos EX | ~$1,800 |
These Rocket’s EX cards had unique dark artwork that made them stand out in the EX era.
📈 Long-Term Outlook
- Sealed Booster Boxes: Near impossible to find, last sale was $50,000+
- Gold Stars Will Keep Rising – As demand for EX-era sets grows, these will only become rarer
- Dark Pokémon Niche Appeal – Many collectors love the Team Rocket aesthetic, making this set an evergreen collector’s favorite
If you’re an EX-era collector, EX Team Rocket Returns is a holy grail set. Gold Stars, Dark Pokémon, and Rocket’s EX cards make it one of the most legendary expansions ever.
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