The Newest Expansion: A4a ‘Secluded Springs’ Set Leaked

The world of Pokemon TCG Pocket is abuzz with activity following a massive leak revealing details of the upcoming expansion, codenamed A4a. This new set, officially named “Secluded Springs,” is set to continue the game’s monthly release cadence and inject a fresh wave of powerful cards and strategies into the meta. The leaks, which surfaced from accidental listings on app store pages and official trailer reveals, have provided a comprehensive look at what players can expect, from the release date to the featured Pokémon. While the official announcement is still pending, the community is already buzzing with excitement over the return of some fan-favorite Legendary Pokémon and the potential for a significant meta shift. This article breaks down all the leaked information, from the release date and featured cards to the potential impact on the competitive landscape of Pokemon TCG Pocket.

Release Date and Availability

According to the leaked app store information, the “Secluded Springs” expansion is set to be released on August 28th. This follows the established pattern of monthly updates for Pokemon TCG Pocket, ensuring that players have a constant stream of new content to look forward to. The release will likely be a worldwide simultaneous launch, allowing players from all regions to jump into the new set at the same time. The timing is particularly interesting as it comes right on the heels of the recent “Wisdom of Sea and Sky” (A4) set, which introduced Lugia ex and Ho-Oh ex. The new “Secluded Springs” set is expected to build upon this Johto-themed release, completing the trio of legendary beasts.

Featured Cards and Gameplay Mechanics

The centerpiece of the “Secluded Springs” set is the introduction of the Legendary dog trio from the Johto region: Raikou ex, Entei ex, and Suicune ex. These new EX cards are expected to be highly sought after and are likely to define new archetypes in the competitive meta. While their exact abilities and attacks remain speculative, early leaks and a trailer on an official Korean channel have given us a glimpse. The cards are expected to bring powerful abilities that synergize with different energy types and offer new strategic options for deck builders. In addition to the legendary trio, other leaked cards include Latios and Latias, two fan-favorite legendary Pokémon from the Hoenn region, hinting at a potential mix of generations in the set. This also continues the trend of bringing in cards that are not strictly confined to the set’s primary region theme.

Another significant detail from the leaks is the return of “Baby Cards,” such as Pichu and Cleffa. These cards typically have a unique mechanic that allows them to search for other cards or have specific effects that can be crucial in the early turns of a game. Their inclusion could lead to the resurgence of “Baby Pokémon” decks, a popular archetype in the physical TCG. The combination of powerful Legendary Pokémon and strategic utility cards like the Baby Pokémon suggests that “Secluded Springs” will be a set with deep strategic potential, rewarding both new and veteran players for their deck-building creativity.

The Meta Impact and Community Reaction

The release of a new set, especially one with iconic Pokémon like the Legendary beasts, always causes a ripple effect in the meta. The current top-tier decks, which often revolve around Ho-Oh ex and Lugia ex from the previous expansion, will now have to contend with these new threats. Players are already speculating on the best team compositions and which of the new EX cards will become the most dominant. The introduction of Raikou ex, Entei ex, and Suicune ex provides new tools for players to create powerful decks, potentially shifting the focus away from the existing meta staples. This constant evolution of the meta is crucial for the long-term health of any mobile game or TCG, as it keeps the game fresh and prevents it from becoming stale.

The community’s reaction to the leaks has been overwhelmingly positive. The news has generated a massive amount of discussion on social media, YouTube, and Discord servers, with players sharing their excitement and theorizing about the new cards. This organic buzz is invaluable for a free-to-play game like Pokemon TCG Pocket, as it drives new downloads and re-engages lapsed players. The leaks also serve as a form of early marketing, building anticipation and ensuring that a large player base is ready to jump in and start opening packs the moment the set goes live. It’s a testament to the game’s growing popularity and the dedication of its player base that even unconfirmed information can create such a significant stir.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Pokemon TCG Pocket?

While “Secluded Springs” is the immediate focus, the leaks also hint at a much larger, and highly anticipated, change coming in the near future. Recent announcements at the 2025 Pokémon World Championships have confirmed that Mega Evolutions are coming to Pokemon TCG Pocket later this fall, with leaks suggesting a release date of late October, coinciding with the game’s first anniversary. The A4a set, therefore, can be seen as a bridge between the current meta and the massive shake-up that Mega Evolutions will undoubtedly bring. This strategic pacing of content releases ensures that the game remains dynamic and exciting, with a constant stream of new cards and mechanics to look forward to. The “Secluded Springs” set is the next crucial chapter in this ongoing saga, and its release on August 28th will be a key moment for the future of Pokemon TCG Pocket.