“Phantasmal Flames” Pokémon TCG Set to Introduce Plenty of New Mega Evolutions
The Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) is igniting excitement with its upcoming Phantasmal Flames expansion, a set poised to bring back the fan-favorite Mega Evolution mechanic while introducing powerful new cards.
As the second installment in the Mega Evolution series, this set promises a fiery mix of nostalgia and innovation, spotlighting iconic Pokémon like Mega Charizard X ex and Mega Gengar ex. With a global release date locked in and a slew of collectible cards, Phantasmal Flames is shaping up to be a must-have for players and collectors alike. Here’s everything you need to know about this blazing new addition to the Pokémon TCG.
Here’s the TL;DR...
Phantasmal Flames is the second set in the Pokémon TCG’s Mega Evolution series, releasing worldwide on November 14, 2025.
The set focuses on Fire and Darkness-type Pokémon, with a heavy emphasis on Mega Evolution Pokémon ex cards.
Key cards include Mega Charizard X ex, Mega Gengar ex, Mega Heracross ex, and Mega Lopunny ex, alongside new Pokémon ex and rare illustrations.
Pre-release events start November 1, 2025, with digital access on Pokémon TCG Live a day early on November 13, 2025.
Collectors can expect over 120 cards, including 13 Illustration Rares, 17 Ultra Rares, and 5 Special Illustration Rares.
A Fiery Focus on Mega Evolutions
Phantasmal Flames dives deep into the Mega Evolution mechanic, a beloved feature from the Pokémon XY series that transforms certain Pokémon into ultra-powerful versions with boosted stats and abilities.
This set draws inspiration from the upcoming Pokémon Legends: Z-A game, set to release on October 16, 2025, which reintroduces Mega Evolutions to the video game series. According to The Pokémon Company, Phantasmal Flames will blend “new with the old,” combining classic Mega Evolutions with fresh additions tied to the Legends: Z-A narrative.
The set’s thematic core revolves around Fire and Darkness-type Pokémon, creating a dramatic clash of searing flames and shadowy chills. “Searing blue flames rip across a dark battlefield as Mega Charizard X ex soars up and looks down upon its opponents,” reads the official description from The Pokémon Company, setting the tone for the set’s intense aesthetic. The inclusion of Mega Gengar ex, described as a “shadowy figure” with a “deep chill to rival the heat,” further amplifies the set’s dynamic flavor.
Standout Cards to Watch
Phantasmal Flames boasts over 120 cards, including a mix of Mega Evolution Pokémon ex, regular Pokémon ex, and high-value collectibles. Here are some of the highlights confirmed by official sources:
Mega Charizard X ex: A Fire-type juggernaut, this card is a centerpiece of the set, with its stunning artwork and high HP making it a collector’s dream. It’s the first modern printing of Mega Charizard X, as noted by SI.com.
Mega Gengar ex: This Darkness-type card promises strategic depth, with its ghostly design and powerful abilities. It’s part of the Japanese Inferno X expansion, which Phantasmal Flames draws from.
Mega Heracross ex and Mega Lopunny ex: These new Mega Evolutions add variety, with Heracross bringing brute strength and Lopunny offering speed and flair.
New Pokémon ex: The set introduces the first wave of regular Pokémon ex for the Mega Evolution series, though specific names like Zacian and Ambipom have been teased as art rares.
Rare Collectibles: Expect 13 Illustration Rares, 17 Ultra Rares (including Mega Evolution Pokémon ex, Trainer, and Energy cards), and 5 Special Illustration Rares for Mega Pokémon ex and Supporter cards, per The Pokémon Company.
The set also includes 10 Trainer cards and various Item, Stadium, and Tool cards, some appearing as Ultra Rares for the first time, according to Card-Binder.com. These additions ensure Phantasmal Flames appeals to competitive players building strategic decks.
Release Details and Availability
Phantasmal Flames is set to launch globally on November 14, 2025, with pre-release events running from November 1 to November 9, 2025, at official tournament stores. Digital players can access the set a day early on Pokémon TCG Live starting November 13, 2025.
The Pokémon Company confirmed that initial delays in Europe for the Mega Evolution series have been resolved, ensuring a synchronized worldwide release.
Collectors and players have plenty of products to choose from, including Booster Packs (featuring artwork of Mega Charizard X, Mega Gengar, Mega Heracross, and Mega Lopunny), Elite Trainer Boxes (with a Charcadet foil promo card), and an Ultra Premium Collection. Preorders opened at Pokémon Center on September 15, 2025, with Elite Trainer Boxes already fetching high resale prices on eBay, according to Resell Calendar.
Why Phantasmal Flames Matters
For collectors, Phantasmal Flames is a treasure trove, with its focus on rare cards and vibrant artwork. “These new Mega cards look GORGEOUS,” wrote Cale Michael for SI.com, highlighting the set’s visual appeal. Competitive players will find the new Mega Evolution Pokémon ex cards, with HP as high as 380 for some like Mega Venusaur, a game-changer for deck-building.
The set’s tie-in with Pokémon Legends: Z-A also hints at new Mega Evolutions like Dragonite and Hawlucha, though their inclusion in Phantasmal Flames remains unconfirmed.
As the final Pokémon TCG expansion of 2025, Phantasmal Flames sets the stage for the Mega Evolution era’s future, blending nostalgia with fresh mechanics. Whether you’re chasing rare cards or battling it out, this set is ready to spark excitement.
Hat Tips
SI.com: For details on Phantasmal Flames card reveals and set highlights.
Pokemon.com: For official set descriptions and release information.
Card-Binder.com: For insights on Mega Evolutions and card counts.
PokeGuardian.com: For confirmation of key cards and product details.
Resell Calendar: For preorder and resale market trends.