The Unova region returns this summer with a new twist. For the first time in the English Pokémon TCG, Black Bolt and White Flare will release as two separate but connected special sets, starting July 18, 2025. Modeled after the dual-set format seen in Japan, this marks a structural change from the usual single-set approach.
Not Just a Set—A Parallel Universe
Rather than cramming everything into one massive release, Black Bolt and White Flare will offer mirrored experiences, each with its own card pool, identity, and exclusives. Black Bolt draws power from the darker currents of Unova with highlights like Zekrom ex and Meloetta ex, while White Flare radiates brilliance through Reshiram ex and Keldeo ex.
This is the first time English and Japanese sets share a name and structure—a symbolic nod to growing global alignment in the TCG experience.
A New Rarity Enters the Fray: “Black White Rare”
A true standout is the introduction of Black White rare cards—an aesthetic experiment featuring cards in striking monochrome art styles. This visual innovation speaks directly to the black-and-white duality that defined Pokémon Black & White back in 2010, finally realized in cardboard form for English collectors.
Over 800 Unique Cards: The Most Ambitious Set Yet?
Let’s do the math. With each of Unova’s 156 Pokémon receiving five versions—regular, reverse holo, Poké Ball reverse holo, Master Ball reverse holo, and illustration rare/special illustration rare—we’re looking at over 800 unique cards across both sets.
That’s not even counting the eight ultra rares per set, the six Pokémon ex, and multiple special illustration rares, including one Supporter in each set. If you’re a completionist or a binder enthusiast, this might be the most ambitious challenge yet.
The Products: Curated, Themed, and Collector-Friendly
As with other special sets, you won’t find Black Bolt or White Flare booster packs sold separately. Instead, they’ll be bundled in uniquely themed products, each offering targeted bonuses:
- Elite Trainer Boxes (July 18) spotlight Thundurus and Tornadus.
- Binder Collections come with Zekrom or Reshiram artwork.
- Unova Poster Collections (also July 18) bring Snivy, Tepig, and Oshawott promos alongside a full-size dual-sided Unova map.
- Mini Tins and Tech Sticker Collections (Aug. 1) inject a fun, casual flair with extras like stickers and art cards.
- Victini Illustration Collection (Aug. 1) is one to watch—boasting a rare parallel foil Poké Ball card, an oversized promo, and not one but two packs from each set.
- Booster Bundles wrap it all up on Aug. 22 with a six-pack mini-drop of either Black Bolt or White Flare.
A Unova Completionist’s Dream
This isn’t just a release—it’s a celebration of an entire region. Every Unova Pokémon gets the spotlight, not just the cover legends or fan favorites. Whether you’re in it for the chase cards, the art, or the lore, Black Bolt and White Flare feel like a love letter to Generation V done right.
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