The closing ceremony of the 2025 Pokémon World Championships on August 18th provided a massive look into the future of the Trading Card Game. The return of Mega Evolution is not just a single set, but the foundation of an entirely new block, bringing with it a revolutionary card rarity, redefined game mechanics, and a packed release schedule for the next year.
A New Chase: The "Mega Attack Rare" is Revealed
The most significant announcement was a brand-new card rarity: the Mega Attack Rare (MA). These cards are a direct and beautiful homage to the fan-favourite Japanese-language promos from the XY era of 2014-2016. They have several distinct features that set them apart from anything else in the modern TCG:
- Integrated Artwork: The attack name is written in stylised katakana and incorporated directly into the card’s illustration, rather than appearing in a standard text box.
- Comic-Book Aesthetic: The art style is dynamic and action-focused, creating a unique visual that stands out.
Three Pokémon were confirmed to be receiving this special treatment: Mega Gardevoir ex, Mega Lucario ex, and the highly anticipated Mega Charizard X
New Cards Join the Battle: Mega Dragonite ex & Oricorio ex
Mega Dragonite ex
While we first saw Mega Dragonite’s design in previews for the Pokémon Legends: Z-A video game, this was its official TCG card reveal. It arrives as a powerful Stage 2 Pokémon with 370 HP and a game-changing ability.
Oricorio ex
A critical support Pokémon for Fire-type strategies was also revealed. Oricorio ex is designed to fuel the high energy costs of the new Mega Pokémon.
The Mega Evolution Release Roadmap So Far (2025)
The upcoming release schedule is packed. Here is a clear timeline for the new sets in both Japan and the West.
Japanese Sets: Mega Brave & Symphonia (Out Now)
The dual sets that kicked off this new era launched in Japan on August 1st. They established the new rules for Mega Evolution, including the 3-Prize card penalty and the introduction of the stunning gold-etched Mega Ultra Rare (MUR) cards. Collector demand for these sets has been immense, with the Mega Lucario ex MUR and Mega Gardevoir ex MUR becoming instant chase cards. For a full breakdown of these sets, you can read our in-depth collector’s guide.
We still have booster boxes available of both Mega Brave and Mega Symphonia, as well as the Pokémon TCG Mega Premium Trainer Box, an ETB-style product including booster packs from both sets!
English Set: Mega Evolution (September 26th, 2025)
The first English Mega Evolution set in nearly a decade is just around the corner. This release will combine the cards from Japan’s Mega Brave and Mega Symphonia into a single, large collection of over 180 cards. It will feature nearly a dozen Mega Evolution Pokémon ex and over 50 cards with special illustrations.
Japanese Set: Inferno X (September 26th, 2025)
The next main Japanese set, Inferno X, will launch on the same day as the English Mega Evolution set. This release will be headlined by Mega Charizard X ex, and is expected to be the set where the Mega Attack Rare version of the card makes its debut.
English Set: Phantasmal Flames (November 14th, 2025)
The second English set of the era, Phantasmal Flames, is positioned to be a massive release for the holiday season. It will combine cards from Japan’s Inferno X set with cards from two upcoming Japanese starter decks featuring Mega Gengar ex and Mega Diancie ex.
Japanese High Class Pack: Mega Dream ex (November 28th, 2025)
Get Rewarded for Your Collection with WLC Rewards!
With so many exciting sets on the horizon, we wanted to give back to the community that supports us. We’ve recently launched the WLC Rewards Programme, a new way for you to earn points on every single purchase you make with us.
The programme is simple: you earn points for everything you buy, whether it’s online or in our Margate store. You can then convert these points into discount codes to save money on your next purchase. If you have an account with us and have made an online order in the last couple of weeks, you may already have a surprise balance waiting for you! This is our way of saying thank you for being on this journey with us.
Protect Your Pulls: WLC TCG Accessories
With chase cards like the new Mega Attack Rares and MURs, proper protection is essential. Our line of WLC TCG Accessories was designed by collectors, for collectors. Our sleeves, toploaders, and semi-rigid holders offer premium protection for your most treasured cards.
Shop Your Way:
Discover our full range of singles and sealed products online at welovecollectibles.co.uk, or visit us in-store for the ultimate treasure hunt!
Our Address: Unit 101, Westwood Business Park, Margate CT9 4JJ.
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