The Neo Era brought Generation II Pokémon (Johto region) into the TCG. It introduced Baby Pokémon, Shining Pokémon, and modernized the game’s mechanics. Below is a chronological overview of Neo sets.
1) Neo Genesis
- Japanese release: December 1999
- English release: December 2000
- Highlights:
- First Generation II Pokémon cards (Totodile, Cyndaquil, Chikorita, Lugia, etc.)
- Introduced Baby Pokémon (e.g., Cleffa, Pichu, Elekid)
- Key holo: Lugia (highly collectible)
- Set symbol: two silver stars
2) Neo Discovery
- Japanese release: June 2000
- English release: June 2001
- Highlights:
- Featured Legendary Beasts: Raikou, Entei, Suicune
- Introduced Unown Pokémon as a collective card series
- Set symbol: stone tablet
3) Neo Revelation
- Japanese release: November 2000
- English release: September 2001
- Highlights:
- Featured Legendary Birds and Ho‑Oh
- First Shining Pokémon (Shining Gyarados, Shining Magikarp)
- Set symbol: crystal ball
4) Neo Destiny
- Japanese release: February 2001
- English release: February 2002
- Highlights:
- Expanded Shining Pokémon lineup (Shining Charizard, Celebi, Mewtwo, etc.)
- Notable for unique foil treatments
- Last Neo expansion released outside Japan
- Set symbol: black star with rays
Summary Timeline
- 2000 — Neo Genesis (EN)
- 2001 — Neo Discovery, Neo Revelation
- 2002 — Neo Destiny
The Neo Era wrapped up the Johto generation, setting the stage for the e‑Card Series and the transition to Nintendo’s publishing era.