Hands-on with Pokémon TCG Mega Evolution set

Fernando Silva | Sep 24 2025 - 11:08 am PT

New TCG/Mega Set

The Pokémon Company has announced that Pokémon TCG: Mega Evolution, the first expansion in the brand-new Mega Evolution Series, will launch on September 26, 2025. This is the most excited I have been about a new Pokémon set since the 151 set! Ahead of release, I got my hands on several of the upcoming products, and here’s a breakdown of what’s inside each one and why fans should be excited.

Mega Evolution expansion

First revealed on Pokémon Day 2025, the Mega Evolution expansion brings back the beloved Mega Evolution Pokémon, last seen in the Sun & Moon era. Players can look forward to cards like Mega Lucario EX and Mega Gardevoir EX. I am personally a huge Lucario fan, so I am excited to see some of the newer artworks.

Beyond the Pokémon themselves, this expansion introduces new ultra-rare Item, Stadium, and Pokémon Tool cards and a unique art style for Mega Evolution Pokémon EX featuring silhouette designs. Some key things to note:

10 Mega Evolution Pokémon ex
22 illustration rare Pokémon
22 ultra rare Mega Evolution Pokémon ex and Trainer cards
10 special illustration rare Mega Evolution Pokémon ex and Supporter cards

This set has been available through prerelease tournaments at local card shops since Sept 13th. Have you been able to get any?

Mega Evolution products

There are a few different Mega Evolution products thatwill be available at launch on Sept 26th. This is what they are and what they include.

Lucario & Gardevoir Elite Trainer Box (ETB)

The Lucario ETB (the one I was able to get my hands on) is the centerpiece for collectors and players alike. Featuring Mega Lucario ex as the star, and a beautiful Riolu promo card, this box comes with everything needed to dive into the expansion:

9 Mega Evolution booster packs
Riolu promo card
Exclusive Lucario-themed card sleeves
Energy cards
Damage counters, dice, and condition markers
A player’s guide and storage box

ETBs are always my most recommended product for Pokémon TCG players and collectors.

Mega Evolution booster box

If you want the best chance at pulling powerful new cards, the booster box is the way to go. Containing 36 Mega Evolution booster packs, this is the ultimate option for competitive players, collectors, or anyone looking to chase the new ultra rares and special illustration rares. But this year the booster box includes an exclusive Bulbasaur full art promo card. I think it looks incredible.

Booster Bundle

The booster bundle is a smaller, budget-friendly option. It includes 6 Mega Evolution booster packs, making it perfect for casual fans or as a quick add-on for those who want to open more packs without committing to a whole box.

Build & Battle Box

Designed for the Mega Evolution Prerelease experience, the Build & Battle Box includes:

4 Mega Evolution booster packs
1 of 4 exclusive foil promo cards
A 40-card ready-to-play deck

This product is ideal for getting a head start with the set or preparing for prerelease events.

Final thoughts

From the Lucario ETB’s premium accessories to the booster box’s pull potential, every Mega Evolution lineup product brings excitement for players and collectors. With the return of Mega Evolution Pokémon ex and an expanded range of ultra rares, this is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated expansions in years.

The new Mega Evolutions set is releasing at all major retailers starting September 26. Be sure to call your local retailers to understand what availability will be like, because it seems like right now, Pokémon is tough to get. Good luck out there, and let us know what type of pulls you were able to get. Also, be sure to head to our YouTube channel to see what cards we are able to get from our product openings!