The Pokémon Trading Card Game is set to make history this summer with the launch of its first-ever dual split expansion in English: Scarlet & Violet – Black Bolt and Scarlet & Violet – White Flare. These highly anticipated sets, releasing worldwide starting July 18, 2025, take Trainers back to the beloved Unova region, celebrating every one of its 156 original Pokémon in spectacular new ways.
A Dual Release Like Never Before
For the first time, the English TCG will mirror the Japanese tradition of split sets, offering two distinct but interconnected expansions. Each set will be available exclusively through special products—such as Elite Trainer Boxes, Binder Collections, Poster Collections, Mini Tins, and Booster Bundles—rather than traditional booster boxes or individual packs.
Set Highlights
- All 156 Unova Pokémon: Every Pokémon from the Unova region will appear as either an illustration rare or special illustration rare card, making this a must-have for collectors and fans of Generation V.
- Legendary Mascots: Black Bolt is headlined by the powerful Zekrom ex and Meloetta ex, while White Flare features Reshiram ex and Keldeo ex.
- Over 170 Cards Per Set: Each expansion boasts a massive card pool, with more than 65 illustration rare cards and at least five special illustration rare cards per set.
- New “Black White Rare” Cards: These cards feature striking monochromatic black or white artwork, a fresh rarity that’s already generating buzz among collectors.
- Nostalgic Elements: The sets pay homage to the original Black & White era with the return of classic holofoil patterns and Basic Energy cards in their original designs.
- Parallel Foil Patterns: Three types of parallel foils are introduced, including dazzling new Poké Ball and Master Ball shimmer effects.
- Exclusive Supporters and Items: Expect reprints of fan favorites like Professor’s Research (Juniper), Air Balloon, Prism Energy, Cheren, and more, alongside new cards like Ignition Energy and Hilda.
Product Lineup
| Product Type | Contents & Features | Release Date |
|---|---|---|
| Elite Trainer Box | 9 booster packs (Black Bolt or White Flare), promo card (Thundurus or Tornadus), accessories | July 18, 2025 |
| Binder Collection | 5 booster packs, 9-pocket album (Zekrom or Reshiram themed) | July 18, 2025 |
| Poster Collection | 2 Black Bolt + 2 White Flare packs, 3 starter promos (Snivy, Tepig, Oshawott), double-sided poster | July 18, 2025 |
| Mini Tin | 1 Black Bolt + 1 White Flare pack, art card, sticker | July 18, 2025 |
| Tech Sticker Collection | 3 booster packs, promo card (Reuniclus or Gothitelle), sticker sheet | August 1, 2025 |
| Victini Illustration Coll. | 2 Black Bolt + 2 White Flare packs, Victini promo, premium parallel card, oversize promo | August 1, 2025 |
| Booster Bundle | 6 booster packs (Black Bolt or White Flare) | August 22, 2025 |
Card Highlights
- Zekrom ex (Black Bolt): Voltage Burst deals 130+ damage, scaling with Prize cards taken—a late-game powerhouse.
- Reshiram ex (White Flare): Blaze Burst mirrors Zekrom’s power, with fiery artwork and devastating potential.
- Kyurem ex: Blizzard Burst offers both strong direct damage and bench spread, ideal for tactical plays.
- Emboar: The Inferno Fandango ability allows unlimited Fire Energy attachments, fueling explosive combos.
- Prism Energy: A flexible reprint, providing any type of energy to Basic Pokémon—perfect for diverse decks.
- Supporters like Hilda and Touko: Powerful trainers that enable strategic deck searches and energy acceleration.
Why These Sets Matter
Black Bolt and White Flare are more than just a nostalgic trip—they represent a bold evolution for the Pokémon TCG. By featuring every Unova Pokémon in premium illustration styles, introducing innovative rarities, and blending old-school charm with modern mechanics, these sets promise to be a historic milestone for players and collectors alike.
