Pokémon fans got a shot at a free Mewtwo ex card this fall as part of the franchise’s 30th anniversary celebration, courtesy of in-store events at Best Buy and Target. The two retailers each hosted their own commemorative event, and both handed out the powerful card to participants, according to CBR.
Mewtwo, one of the most dominant Pokémon in the franchise’s history, has been reissued as an ex card for the occasion. The giveaway arrives as The Pokémon Company marks 30 years since the original games launched in 1996 from developer Game Freak and publisher Nintendo.
How fans could claim the free Mewtwo
Best Buy ran a “Trade and Play” day on Oct. 3 at select stores, open from noon to 2 p.m. local time. Alongside the Mewtwo ex card, the retailer also provided a trading kit so attendees could swap cards with other players during the session, CBR reported.
Target took a different approach with its “Family Day” event on Sept. 27, held from noon to 4 p.m. local time at select locations. Only the first 100 attendees at each participating store walked away with a free Mewtwo card, plus a voucher for exclusive merchandise while supplies lasted.
Eligibility and availability limits
Both events were location-specific and limited to select stores, meaning not every Best Buy or Target location took part. Target’s giveaway was capped strictly at the first 100 guests per store, and Best Buy’s window ran for just two hours. CBR noted there is no confirmation yet on whether either retailer plans to repeat these promotions or whether other retailers will join future 30th anniversary events.
How this compares to past Pokémon promotions
The Mewtwo giveaway follows a string of 30th anniversary collectibles, including a premium gold Gholdengo collectible and the Pokémon 30th Celebration Elite Trainer Box. Unlike those paid products, the Mewtwo card cost nothing beyond showing up to a qualifying event, making it one of the more accessible anniversary items released so far.
What’s next for Pokémon’s anniversary year
The Pokémon Company has more planned for its 30th anniversary celebration of the TCG, with the second Pokémon 30th Anniversary TCG set and a Rayquaza-themed set both expected in early November 2026. Beyond the card game, Nintendo is preparing Pokémon Winds and Pokémon Waves, the first Generation 10 titles, for release on Nintendo Switch 2 in 2027, according to CBR.
Collectors hoping for another shot at free promotional cards should watch for official announcements from Best Buy and Target, since CBR reported neither retailer has confirmed additional giveaway dates.
Reporting from Polygon, IGN and Cbr contributed to this story.
