The Pokémon TCG is heading somewhere dark and we are absolutely here for it. Japan’s Abyss Eye set is making its way west as Pitch Black, and the cards coming out of it are seriously stunning.
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From ghostly Mega Evolutions to nostalgic fan favorites, this set is stacked with chases at every rarity level. The English release drops on July 17, so let’s break down the 15 biggest cards you need to know about.
15. Rust Syndicate Grunt 110/081
This Full Art Supporter card brings a gritty, atmospheric underground vibe that perfectly sets the tone for the whole set. It gives Pitch Black its signature industrial edge and is an instant binder favorite for collectors who love dark, moody aesthetics.
14. Primarina 085/081
This Art Rare shows Primarina putting on an underwater performance with vibrant, eye-catching colors. The bright contrast against the set’s overall dark theme makes it one of the most visually striking pulls in the lower tiers.
13. Toucannon 092/081
Toucannon does not usually get a lot of love, but this colorful and expressive Art Rare changes that in a big way. The artwork is full of personality and makes this bird way more exciting than anyone expected.
12. Armarouge 083/081
This fiery action shot puts Armarouge’s armor front and center in the most dynamic way possible. It is a clear visual standout among the lower-half chases and one that fire-type fans will definitely want in their collection.
11. Goldeen 084/081
Goldeen pulls a total surprise here with a serene, ink-wash painting style that feels like traditional Japanese art. It is elegant, calm, and honestly one of the most beautiful cards in the entire set.
10. Slowbro 087/081
This Art Rare captures a perfectly oblivious Slowbro moment that is equal parts hilarious and charming. Casual collectors are going to absolutely love this one for the good vibes alone.
9. Silvally 093/081
Silvally’s metallic, chimera-like design gets the spotlight treatment here with a striking art piece that leans into its synthetic origins. It is a bold, unique card that stands out among the mid-tier pulls.
8. Gladion’s Showdown 116/081
This Special Illustration Rare captures a tense, high-stakes battle moment that Sun and Moon fans are going to go wild for. The premium finish matches the dramatic energy of the artwork perfectly.
7. Mega Chandelure ex 113/081
The Mega Evolution mechanic makes a return and it pairs with Chandelure’s ghostly aesthetic in the best possible way. Nostalgia is going to send this card flying out of packs and straight into trade binders.
6. Gwynn 117/081
Gwynn is a Full Art Supporter card with incredible character design that is already driving serious hype in the community. This is the kind of card that gets people cracking boxes just hoping to land it.
5. Misty’s Spirit 108/081
One of the franchise’s most iconic characters gets a premium textured foil treatment and the result is stunning. This Supporter card is a nostalgic powerhouse that collectors and fans are going to chase hard.
4. Mega Zeraora ex 112/081
This hyper-dynamic Special Illustration Rare combines electric, lightning-infused artwork with real competitive playability. It is both gorgeous to look at and actually useful in a deck, which makes it a double threat.
3. Morpeko ex 115/081
Morpeko’s Full Belly and Hangry modes both get showcased in one clever split-personality artwork on this premium ex card. It is an absolute fan favorite and one of the most creative card designs in the whole set.
2. Mega Darkrai ex 118/081
The Gold Secret Rare version of the set’s mascot comes with an ultra-premium gilded finish that master set collectors are going to need. It is luxurious, rare, and the kind of card you frame rather than play.
1. Mega Darkrai ex 114/081
The undisputed number one chase card of the entire expansion is this masterclass Special Illustration Rare showing Darkrai in its full, shadowy Mega-Evolved form. Everything about this card screams crown jewel, and it is going to be one of the most talked-about pulls of 2026.
Pokémon TCG Pitch Black is officially releasing worldwide on July 17, 2026 with over 115 cards headlined by Mega Darkrai ex. If you want to get your hands on product early, pre-release events at local shops run from July 4 through July 12. Pokémon TCG Live players also get early access with the digital release going live on July 16. Whether you are a collector, a competitive player, or just here for the gorgeous art, Pitch Black is shaping up to be one of the most exciting sets of the year.
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