Infos

The Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) is set to release its latest dual expansion: Black Bolt SV11b and White Flare SV11w, launching on June 6, 2025, in Japan. These sets pay homage to the Unova region, featuring all 156 Pokémon from the Black & White and Black 2 & White 2 video games.

Black Bolt & White Flare: A Unova Revival

Following the success of Scarlet & Violet – 151, these expansions aim to recreate that excitement with a focus on Unova's rich roster. Each set will

• All 156 Unova Pokémon, each with either an Art Rare (AR) or Special Art Rare (SAR) card.

• The return of the classic Black & White-era holofoil pattern, offering a nostalgic touch for collectors.

• A new rarity tier called BWR, debuting with Zekrom ex and Reshiram ex.

Featured Cards & Mechanics

Several standout cards have been revealed:

• Zekrom ex: Its Voltage Burst attack deals additional damage based on the number of Prize cards your opponent has taken, though it also inflicts damage to itself.

• Reshiram ex: The Blaze Burst attack increases in power with each Prize card your opponent has taken, requiring an Energy discard.

• Kyurem ex: Blizzard Burst not only hits the Active Pokémon but also damages each of your opponent's Benched Pokémon.

• Emboar: Features the Inferno Fandango ability, allowing multiple Fire Energy attachments per turn.

• Samurott: Its Strong Currents ability facilitates strategic switching of Active and Benched Pokémon.

• Serperior ex: Boasts the Royal Cheer ability, enhancing the damage of your Active Pokémon's attacks.

Notable Trainer and Energy cards include:

• Hilda: A Supporter card that lets you search your deck for an Evolution Pokémon and an Energy card.

• Ignition Energy: Provides versatile Energy support, offering more Energy when attached to Evolution Pokémon.

• Prism Energy: A reprint that provides every type of Energy when attached to Basic Pokémon.

• Air Balloon: Reduces the Retreat Cost of the attached Pokémon.

Product Details & Pricing

• Standard Booster Boxes: Each contains 20 packs, with 7 cards per pack

• Deluxe Booster Packs: Feature 35 cards per pack, including one guaranteed AR card, 

• Card File Set: Includes a Victini promo card, a 3-pocket card file with a 156-card capacity, and three booster packs from each expansion

Collector's Perspective

The comprehensive inclusion of all Unova Pokémon, combined with the return of classic holofoil patterns and the introduction of new rarity tiers, makes Black Bolt and White Flare highly anticipated among collectors and competitive players alike. The thematic focus on legendary Pokémon like Zekrom and Reshiram further enhances the appeal of these sets.

Final Thoughts

With their release on the horizon, Black Bolt and White Flare are poised to be standout additions to the Pokémon TCG lineup in 2025. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a competitive player, these sets offer a blend of nostalgia and new mechanics that shouldn't be missed.

Stay tuned for more updates as the release date approaches!