In an era where collaborations flood the cultural landscape, few truly resonate as profound artistic intersections. Yet, when the worlds of haute patisserie and the iconic Pokémon Trading Card Game converge, the result is nothing short of remarkable. Enter the partnership between Natsuko Shoji, the visionary chef of Tokyo’s été, and The Pokémon Company, a collaboration that reimagines both culinary artistry and trading card design. This extraordinary alliance is centered on a singular creation: a Terastallized Eevee card designed by Shoji, paired with her jewel-like fruit tart “Fleur de été.” The card is set to debut in the upcoming Scarlet & Violet—Prismatic Evolutionsexpansion, slated for release on January 17, 2025. The concept is steeped in the luminous Terastal phenomenon, a mechanic in the Pokémon universe that transforms creatures into sparkling, jewel-like forms, reflecting Shoji’s own artistic philosophy.

Shoji’s journey to this collaboration began in 2022, when Tsunekazu Ishihara, President of The Pokémon Company, visited été. Accompanied by guests from Creatures Inc., developers of the Pokémon Trading Card Game, Ishihara experienced Shoji’s exquisite culinary creations firsthand. Inspired by her meticulous artistry and vision, the seed for this unprecedented collaboration was planted. Shoji’s distinct approach—balancing the natural essence of ingredients with precision craftsmanship—perfectly aligned with the ethos of Pokémon design. For Shoji, the partnership was as much about her personal connection to Pokémon as it was about artistry. Like many of her generation, she grew up immersed in the world of Pokémon Red and Green, marveling at the ingenuity of the games’ creators who rendered entire ecosystems within the limitations of early gaming technology. “Pokémon is embedded in the DNA of all humankind,” she reflected, underlining the timeless appeal of the franchise.

Choosing Eevee, one of the most beloved Pokémon, as the centerpiece of the collaboration was a deliberate and inspired choice. While Pikachu, with its bright yellow hues, initially seemed a natural fit due to its alignment with Shoji’s signature mango rose tart, the development team’s proposal of a Stellar Tera Eevee ex card offered something unique. Eevee’s adaptability and charm mirrored Shoji’s culinary ethos: the ability to evolve, adapt, and transform while remaining rooted in quality and authenticity. The card itself captures the essence of Shoji’s artistry. The featured tart incorporates seven types of fruit, each carved with diamond-cut precision to evoke the brilliance of the Terastal phenomenon. “Fruits have always been jewels to me,” Shoji noted, explaining her vision for the tart. The creation not only pays homage to the theme but also pushes the boundaries of her own culinary repertoire. The resulting dessert is a mosaic of flavors and textures, a testament to Shoji’s meticulous approach to balance and harmony.

The Stellar Tera Eevee ex card isn’t just visually stunning; it’s a functional marvel within the game. In the Pokémon Trading Card Game, Stellar Tera Pokémon ex are imbued with unique properties—Eevee, for instance, cannot take damage while on the Bench. This strategic element adds depth to its appeal, ensuring that the card is as valuable to players as it is to collectors. The collaboration also underscores Pokémon’s commitment to bridging diverse artistic mediums. By inviting Shoji, a chef renowned for her innovative approach, to contribute to the franchise, The Pokémon Company continues to expand the cultural dialogue surrounding its brand. Shoji’s involvement isn’t merely an aesthetic addition; it’s a testament to Pokémon’s evolution as a platform for creative expression.

Shoji is no stranger to groundbreaking partnerships. Her work with figures like Takashi Murakami and brands like Girls Don’t Cry has positioned her as a cultural tastemaker, someone who navigates the intersection of art, food, and fashion with ease. But for Shoji, the essence of a successful collaboration lies in mutual understanding and respect. This philosophy is evident in her approach to the Pokémon card project. By immersing herself in the world of Pokémon, Shoji ensured that her contribution was authentic and meaningful. The result is a card that not only celebrates the franchise but also elevates it, inviting players and collectors to see Pokémon through a new lens.

Shoji’s involvement in this collaboration speaks to broader themes of inspiration and legacy. As a chef, she’s acutely aware of the challenges facing her industry, from a shortage of successors to the pressures of maintaining quality in a fast-paced world. Through her work, she hopes to inspire younger generations to see the culinary arts as a vibrant and rewarding career path. The inclusion of her name on a Pokémon card is more than a personal milestone; it’s a message to aspiring chefs and artists about the power of passion and creativity. By merging the worlds of food and gaming, Shoji invites us to consider the connections between seemingly disparate disciplines. The collaboration between Shoji and The Pokémon Company is a reminder of the endless possibilities that arise from creative synergy. It challenges us to think about evolution—not just in the context of Pokémon, but in our own lives and professions. As Shoji herself put it, “I must continue evolving. Someday, I’d like to be like Mewtwo—the strongest in my mind.” Through her culinary creations and her contributions to the Pokémon universe, Shoji exemplifies the transformative power of art. The Stellar Tera Eevee ex card is more than a collectible; it’s a symbol of what can be achieved when tradition meets innovation, when art meets play. And for those who hold it in their hands, it’s an invitation to imagine, create, and evolve.