The Pokémon TCG Pocket Space-Time Smackdown booster packs have arrived, shaking up the meta with a fresh influx of cards. Unlike the smaller Mythical Island release, players face a choice: Dialga packs or Palkia packs. This guide helps you navigate this decision.

How to Identify Dialga vs. Palkia Pack Contents

The Space-Time Smackdown set offers two distinct packs, easily distinguished by the featured Legendary Pokémon on the pack art—Dialga or Palkia. Similar to the Genetic Apex set, each pack contains a slightly different card pool. To see the exact contents and pull rates for each pack, simply hover over the pack image on the booster pack selection screen and select "Offering Rates." This will display a complete list of included cards and their probabilities.

With 207 cards in the set, and some being pack-exclusive, prioritizing your pack choices based on desired cards is key.

Dialga Packs vs. Palkia Packs: Which to Choose?

The optimal pack choice depends on your goals. Target specific Pokémon? Prioritize the pack containing them. Aim for meta dominance? Focus on cards known for their competitive strength in Pokémon TCG Pocket battles.

Dialga Pack Highlights

Dialga packs boast several powerful EX cards, including Dialga EX, Yanmega EX, Gallade EX, and Darkrai EX. Players building decks around these cards should prioritize Dialga packs. Additionally, exclusive illustration rares and Trainer cards like Dawn and Volkner are only found here. Bidoof fans, rejoice! It's also a Dialga exclusive.

Palkia Pack Highlights

Naturally, securing Palkia EX requires opening Palkia packs. While offering fewer EX cards than Dialga, this pack features Lickilicky EX, Weavile EX, and Mismagius EX—potentially forming the basis of unique, less conventional decks. Exclusive Supporter cards Mars and Cynthia also reside within.

The Verdict: Dialga or Palkia?

Dialga packs generally offer a stronger competitive edge due to their high-power EX cards. However, Palkia packs provide valuable Supporter cards and the potential for building unique, strategic decks.

Ultimately, your choice hinges on your personal preferences and goals. Focus on the pack containing your most coveted cards first, then strategically allocate your Pack Hourglasses and Pack Points to complete your collection.

Pokémon TCG Pocket is available now on mobile devices.