What’s New: “Mega Evolution” Expansion Overview

What’s New: “Mega Evolution” Expansion Overview

Release Date: September 26, 2025.

Scope: This is the first set in the new Mega Evolution Series. It re‑introduces Mega Evolution ex Pokémon, which haven’t been in the TCG since the XY era.

Some of the major changes and features:

  • Mega ex cards will now cost 3 Prize cards when knocked out (instead of the typical 2). This ups the risk/reward factor.

  • The Mega ex cards in this set can be Basic, Stage 1, or Stage 2 depending on the Pokémon’s evolution line. For example, Mega Lucario ex will evolve from Riolu rather than directly from Lucario.

  • There are over 180 cards total including secret rares. The English set (Mega Evolution) will have ~132 cards before counting secret rares.

  • There are also new ultra rare “Full Art” styles and special illustration rare (SIR) cards, plus Trainer/Item/Stadium/Tool cards made ultra rare (some for the first time) in this set.

 

 

Top Chase Cards

“Chase cards” are the rare, high‑demand cards that both players and collectors want — due to power, art, rarity, or nostalgia. Here are the ones drawing the most buzz in Mega Evolution.

Rank

Card

Why It's Highly Sought After

1

Mega Lucario ex (MUR /SIR)

Big favorite: strong art, beloved character, good synergy. Likely one of the hardest Mega ex to pull.

2

Mega Gardevoir ex (MUR / Full Art / SIR)

Elegant design + strong appeal. Also good competitive potential.

3

Mega Venusaur ex

Nostalgia factor, since Venusaur is one of the original starters. Also high demand among collectors.

4

Mega Latias ex

A popular pseudo‑legendary; its Mega version is always a sought‑after pull.

5

Mega Absol ex

Less “mainstream” than Lucario or Charizard, but Absol has strong art and cool mechanics; good as a collector’s showpiece.

6

Mega Kangaskhan ex

Because of its signature attack style in past sets, and the uniqueness of the Pokémon. Always has collector value. 

7

Mega Mawile ex

For those who like “underdog” Megas; this card has character, and tends to get love among certain collector segments.

8

Mega Camerupt ex / Mega Abomasnow ex

These aren’t front‑line hype, but they are solid cards especially if their mechanics are good in play; plus their rarity could make them valuable.

Also noteworthy outside the Mega ex Pokémon cards:

  • Lillie’s Determination (SIR) — full‑illustration Trainer cards like this tend to be highly collectible.

  • Acerola’s Mischief (SIR) — another special illustration Trainer with strong fan recognition. 

What to Watch Out For (for Collectors / Players)

  • Pull rates of ultra rares and special illustration rares are usually very low, so chasing the top cards will be expensive.

  • Because Mega ex Pokémon cost 3 Prizes if knocked out, they’re powerful but risky to play. That dynamic might reduce their usage in competitive play relative to their visual and collector value.

  • Some cards are being distributed via special products (Elite Trainer Boxes, special tins, etc.), which may affect how easy or hard they are to get.



The Mega Evolution set marks an exciting return to one of the Pokémon TCG's most beloved mechanics. With over 180 cards and the debut of powerful new Mega ex Pokémon, this expansion blends nostalgia with fresh competitive dynamics. Whether you're a collector hunting stunning full-art cards like Mega Lucario ex or a player looking to build bold new decks, this set offers something for everyone.

As always, the true gems are in the chase cards—with standout pulls like Mega Gardevoir ex (SIR) and Lillie’s Determination (SIR) already generating serious buzz. But with rarities high and pull rates low, completing your dream collection will take persistence (and maybe a bit of luck).

Whether you’re ripping packs for fun, hunting grails for your binder, or crafting new battle strategies, Mega Evolution is a set that’s reshaping the Pokémon TCG in all the right ways.

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