When a video game series has run for as long asPokemonhas, there will inevitably be some repetition and overlap. One of the more understated strengths of the Nintendo-exclusive franchise has been keeping the repetitions under the guise of nostalgia, only recycling ideas or features when they can be tied to something that fans have a soft spot for. Now, there’s confirmation thatPokemon Ultra SunandUltra Moonare bringing back one of the most beloved organizations thePokemonseries has ever seen in the legendary Team Rocket.
The news was confirmed early this morning when new Japanese download cards forPokemon Ultra SunandUltra Moonwere released. The cards show members of Team Rocket quite prominently, identified by their black newsboy caps that make up part of the villainous group’s uniform. Another image on the cards suggests that they will play a major role in thePokemon Ultra SunandUltra Moonstoryas well, as the front of Lusamine’s mansion has been adorned with a large, rainbow-colored “R” that could only signify the return ofPokemon’s most iconic antagonists.
It has been a long time since Pokemon trainers have had to deal with Team Rocket, who were disbanded inPokemonlore at theend ofPokemon GoldandSilver. While the nature of Team Rocket’s return will be a mystery—likely until people actually get to playUltra SunandUltra Moon, given the huge nature of the reveal—just knowing that Team Rocket is back will be enough to capture the interests of veterans of thePokemonseries.
SincePokemon Ultra SunandUltra Moonhave been confirmed to be thelast mainlinePokemonrelease on the Nintendo 3DS, it makes sense that the franchise would like to go out in style on a platform that has helped maintainPokemon’s dominance of the handheld market. There will inevitably be more news surrounding the return of Team Rocket soon, but for now, fans can begin to plot the next step in bringing about the downfall of thePokemonworld’s most dangerous criminal organization.
Pokemon Ultra SunandPokemon Ultra Moonarrive exclusively for Nintendo 3DS and Nintendo 2DS platforms on June 25, 2025.
