The highly anticipated Illustration Rare Riolu has just been revealed as part of the upcoming Mega Brave expansion, launching in Japan on August 1st, 2025. This card is already generating buzz among collectors and competitive players alike, thanks to its stunning artwork and its place in the first set of the new MEGA era of the Pokémon TCG.
About the Card:
- Name: Riolu (Illustration Rare)
- Type: Fighting
- HP: 80
- Attack:
- [F] Accelerating Stab: 30 damage. During your next turn, this Pokémon can’t use Accelerating Stab.
- Weakness: Psychic (x2)
- Retreat Cost: 2
This Riolu is a Basic Pokémon card, making it a straightforward addition to many decks. Its attack, Accelerating Stab, offers a solid 30 damage for a single Fighting Energy, though it comes with the limitation that it can’t be used on consecutive turns.
Set & Collectibility:
- Set: Mega Brave (Card #28/63)
- Release Date (Japan): August 1st, 2025
- International Release: Cards from Mega Brave will be included in the Mega Evolution set, launching globally on September 26th.
The Mega Brave set is notable for marking the return of Mega Evolutions to the Pokémon TCG, with a focus on fan-favorites like Mega Lucario ex. The Illustration Rare Riolu stands out for its unique artwork and is expected to be a chase card for collectors, especially as Illustration Rares continue to be one of the most sought-after card types in recent sets.
Why Collectors Should Care:
- Exclusive artwork: Illustration Rares feature full-art illustrations by top artists, making each card a miniature work of art.
- First MEGA era set: As part of the inaugural MEGA block, this Riolu is a piece of Pokémon TCG history.
- Strong Lucario connection: Riolu evolves into Lucario, a perennial fan-favorite, and Mega Brave features Mega Lucario ex as a set highlight.
With the international release on the horizon, keep an eye out for the Illustration Rare Riolu—this card is destined to become a centerpiece in both collections and decks.
Are you excited to add this Riolu to your collection? Let us know your thoughts and which Illustration Rare you’re chasing from Mega Brave!
