McDonald's Japan's New Pikachu Card in Happy Meals Sparks Instant Buzz

Did McDonald's Japan just release the most sought-after piece of cardboard in the world? McDonald's Japan put out a special Pikachu trading card exclusive to its children's meals, which had artwork showing the Pokémon eat a burger. This item quickly became popular with collectors because many people wanted it.

For a comprehensive look at this exclusive promotion and the complete card set, check out our detailed guide to the McDonald's 2025 Pokémon Promo Pack.

The Card That Caused a Frenzy

This Pikachu special card first showed up in Japan as a part of a short, three-day event in August 2025. People wanted it so much that McDonald's stopped the promotion after only 24 hours. Unopened boxes of the cards soon appeared for sale on the internet. The card's special picture - Pikachu chew a burger - drew fans from the Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) community. It turned into a sudden favorite item despite its limited run.

Reports point out that card releases only in Japan often bring about chaos when people resell the items, because collectors rush to get the unusual pictures.

In comparison to regular TCG cards, this one was not meant for official games. Instead, it served as a simple, first-time collectible item that went with children's meals.

Ties to Bigger Pokémon Promotions

This Pikachu card stands out among McDonald's current work with Pokémon. In January 2025, a worldwide Dragon-type Pokémon children's meal featured cards like Charizard, also Rayquaza, and posters, stickers, as well as games within the app. Now, whispers suggest a new promotion focused on the U.S. during February-March 2026 for Pokémon's 30th anniversary on February 27.

That upcoming event likely includes four-card packs with one shiny card, similar to releases in the past. Fans guess about an English version of the burger-eat Pikachu, although The Pokémon Company showed caution with cards that feature different pictures because of problems with providing enough supply.

Why It Resonates with Fans

Pokémon as well as McDonald's share a history that goes back many years. They mix fast food with collectible items since the game started in 1996.

These children's meal cards act as a simple way to start TCG collecting, often with specially themed boxes and small sets of cards. However, high demand often brings in people who buy items just to sell them at higher prices, as seen in past events where stores put limits on how many purchases a person made.

The quick rise of the Japan Pikachu card shows how a single, fun picture takes the attention of people everywhere. It joins feelings of the past and new excitement within the Pokémon world. While details on releases in other countries stay unconfirmed, it shows the lasting appeal of these joint projects.

For collectors looking to acquire this exclusive card now that the promotion has ended, they may be available through specialty retailers like packtoria, which specializes in importing and selling Japanese Pokémon promotional items.

FAQ
Will the burger-eating Pikachu card release outside of Japan?

At this time, there is no official statement regarding a release of the burger-eating Pikachu card in other countries. Fans hope for an English version, especially with the upcoming Pokémon anniversary promotions.

How long did the Pikachu card promotion last in Japan?

The promotion was planned to last three days but ended after just 24 hours because people wanted the card too much.

Do these special cards work in the official Pokémon Trading Card Game?

No, this Pikachu card and similar special promotional cards from McDonald's usually do not have a place in official, competitive TCG play. They serve as collectible items for fans.