McDonald's has officially launched its highly anticipated Pokémon Dragon Discovery Happy Meal, which is set to take the fast-food chain's iconic toy promotion by storm. Beginning January 21 and running until February 24, 2025, this delightful collaboration revives the beloved partnership between McDonald’s and Pokémon, delighting fans both young and old.
The new Happy Meal is themed around the Pokémon franchise, famously known for capturing the hearts of audiences since the 90s. Each meal includes exciting elements such as Pokémon-themed collectible cards, stickers, and even a fold-out poster, making it a treasure trove for any Pokémon enthusiast or nostalgia seeker.
The Dragon Discovery Happy Meal comprises one of four Pokémon box designs featuring popular characters like Charizard, Dragonite, Pikachu, Rayquaza, and Roaring Moon. According to reports, the meal will also include a pack of four Pokémon Trading Card Game cards, one of which is guaranteed to be holographic. Some of the cards collectors will have the opportunity to acquire include well-loved favorites such as Pikachu, Jigglypuff, and Charizard.
According to food blogger Snackolator, who revealed the details of this promotion on January 19, this launch marks McDonald’s return to the Pokémon promotion, which had not happened stateside since 2024. Fans are already expressing their excitement on social media, with comments like, “Damn best happy meal in forever” echoing the sentiments of many who are eager to relive their childhood memories.
Social media buzz is palpable, with many fans voicing their hopes to snag these exclusive toys before scalpers get hold of them. One commenter on Reddit recounted how past promotions saw individuals trying to buy entire boxes of the toys, expressing concern over scalpers ruining the fun for kids—and many echoed those sentiments on X, with concerns about the limited availability leading to potential scalping issues. "Finally, a use for my reward points. Unless the scalpers get them first. Somehow,” wrote another X user, picking up on the tension between collectors and opportunistic buyers.
This new promotion revitalizes the Pokémon brand just when fans are preparing to celebrate its 29th anniversary. With the collaboration being described as “nostalgic” for those who grew up during the Pokémon craze, it has sparked excitement among fans who reminisce about similar partnerships from years past. Many fans share stories recalling their experiences from previous McDonald's Pokémon promotions, like the long lines and the thrill of collecting specific cards.
Initially, the Dragon Discovery promotion debuted last month in France before making its way to U.S. crowds. The anticipation surrounding the availability of the special Pokémon cards, which feature enticing designs and holographic patterns exclusive to the collaboration, has collectors giddy with excitement.
The Happy Meal will come with not just the Pokémon cards but also some fun activities, such as coloring sheets and interactive games available through McDonald's apps. This added digital engagement enhances the overall experience for children and collectors alike, allowing them to connect with the Pokémon world beyond just physical cards.
This isn’t the first time McDonald’s has ventured down the Pokémon road. The fast-food giant began promoting Pokémon toys with Happy Meals back in 2011, creating beloved memories with each release. Continuing this tradition, this year's offering involves 15 collectible cards and invokes excitement around the annual collection process. Historically, McDonald's has included exclusive cards like holo cards (those with shiny finishes) and special numbering as part of their promotions.
While fans of all ages are joyous about this new opportunity to grab some nostalgia, the promotion doesn’t come without its concerns. Fans and collectors are wary of scalpers who have previously disrupted the accessibility of Happy Meal toys by swooping up the entire stock, turning what should be fun, collectible experience for children and fans alike, sour. “I can already see scalpers at the drive-thru saying ‘Uhhhhh, I’ll take 100 happy meals, all chicken nuggets with extra fries,’” joked another social media user.
The Pokémon Dragon Discovery Happy Meal marks another chapter of cherished memories for Pokémon enthusiasts, reminiscent of simpler days. The limited-time promotion aligns perfectly as fans gear up for the release of new Pokémon activities and celebrate the brand’s legacy. To many, McDonald’s and Pokémon are more than just fast food and cartoons; they represent cherished childhood memories, community, and the joys of collecting.
For those eager to join the fun, it’s time to race to nearby McDonald's locations from January 21 to February 24 and get ready to catch them all!