Pokemon TCG Phantasmal Flames: Mega Evolution Makes a Spectacular Return with New Expansion

A New Era of Mega Evolution

The Pokemon Company International has announced their latest Trading Card Game (TCG) expansion, Mega Evolution—Phantasmal Flames, scheduled for release on November 14, 2025, in the U.S., Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

This release represents a strategic return of Mega Evolutions to the Pokemon TCG after several years, perfectly timed to coincide with the release of Pokemon Legends: Z-A.

Featured Pokemon and Set Details

The set dramatically showcases Mega Charizard X ex soaring above the battlefield with searing blue flames, while the shadowy figure of Mega Gengar ex rises to challenge it. The expansion will also feature Mega Heracross ex, Mega Lopunny ex, and other powerful Pokemon.

The expansion will include six Mega Evolution Pokemon ex and four Pokemon ex, alongside 17 ultra rare Mega Evolution Pokemon ex, Trainer, and Energy cards. Collectors can look forward to 13 illustration rare Pokemon and five special illustration rare Supporter and Mega Evolution cards.

Product Availability and Digital Release

Players can find Mega Evolution—Phantasmal Flames in booster packs, Elite Trainer Boxes, and various collections at participating retailers. Additionally, players will have early access to the expansion digitally through the Pokemon TCG Live app for iOS, Android, macOS, and Windows devices starting November 13, 2025.

For enthusiasts eager to experience the cards before the official launch, Prerelease tournaments will be held at participating independent retailers beginning November 1, 2025.

Historical Significance

Phantasmal Flames is set to contain approximately 130 cards once secret rares are included, making it comparable to 2017’s Sun & Moon: Crimson Invasion, which had 124 total cards. This makes it the smallest English set released in eight years, excluding special sets.

The set will continue the tradition of featuring ultra rare cards with unique artwork showing silhouettes of regular Pokemon versions in the background of Mega Evolution Pokemon ex cards, which are expected to be the expansion’s most sought-after items.