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Pokémon Fans Didn't Expect This McDonald's Japan Card Comeback
Do you believe a single promotional card sold out an entire nationwide event in less than 24 hours? Pokémon fans got a surprise with a well-liked card from McDonald's Japan creating a lot of talk. Now, people speak of a possible U.S. return, connected to the franchise's 30th anniversary. The Pikachu promotional item, which features the mascot eating a burger, sold out very fast when it recently appeared in Japan, taking collectors by surprise.

For those interested in the complete story behind this phenomenon, there's a detailed account of how this promotion unfolded.

The Japan Frenzy That Started It All
In August 2025, McDonald's Japan ran a short, three-day event for a special Pikachu trading card with unique picture work. Demand grew huge, forcing the event to finish after just 24 hours because supplies disappeared. Boxes of cards, never opened, soon showed up for resale online, showing how quickly the card became desired. Fans did not see this fast excitement coming, especially after a Dragon-type card partnership earlier that year.

This Japan promotional card stands out because Pikachu stays a main mascot for Pokémon, mixing old memories with new art that encourages collector interest.

Linking to the 2026 U.S. Happy Meal Revival
Reports point toward McDonald's starting a Pokémon Trading Card Game Happy Meal special offer in the U.S. from February to March 2026, set for Pokémon Day on February 27. While not yet made official by McDonald's or Pokémon, sources like PokéBeach affirm the plans. They expect four-card booster packs per meal - usually one shiny card and three reprinted cards.

Speculation increases that the Japan Pikachu card get an English-language release, given its recent success and the anniversary milestone. For background, the 25th anniversary promotional release in 2021 brought a huge 50-card set, setting expectations high for something special at this time.

What Makes This Anniversary Different?
The 30th Anniversary is a major milestone for the franchise.
The previous 25th Anniversary set a precedent for large, special releases.
The recent Japanese success makes a U.S. release more likely.

A History of Surprise Collaborations
McDonald's, also Pokémon have a history of these special offers, starting with the U.S. debut of Pokémon Black as well as White Happy Meals in 2011. Later ones held Sun & Moon cards in 2017, shiny specials in 2018, and Trading Card Game packs with toys in 2019. Each release mixes meals with items to collect, often causing stores to fill up quickly.

These events draw crowds because Pokémon cards hold true worth - some rare ones sell for millions - making Happy Meals a fun, easy way to begin collecting.

Why Fans Are Hyped and Cautious
The sudden Japan comeback gives fans hope for rarer cards without searching many stores or paying high prices to resellers. Past promotional offers saw buyers grab many dozens of meals, causing limits in places like the UK. With the 30th anniversary nearing, people think this mean bigger sets or protective rules from McDonald's plus The Pokémon Company to stop reselling.

Overall, the Japan card's fast sellout shows Pokémon's lasting power. This sets the stage for what be the biggest McDonald's collaboration yet in 2026. You should prepare yourself for a busy time if the promotion hits your local restaurant.

For collectors who missed out on the Japanese promotion, specialty retailers that import these exclusive cards may offer opportunities to acquire these sought-after items.

FAQ
Will the Pikachu Burger Card Come to the U.S.?
While not official, speculation runs high. The card's huge success in Japan, combined with the upcoming 30th-anniversary Happy Meal promotion in the U.S. in 2026, suggests an English-language release is possible.

When Do We Expect the 2026 U.S. Promotion?
Reports indicate the promotion run from February to March 2026, timing it to align with Pokémon Day on February 27.

What Do the Happy Meal Packs Contain?
Sources confirm the packs typically hold four cards: one shiny card and three reprinted cards from the trading card game.