The Pokémon Trading Card Game is no stranger to hype, but few expansions have carried the same anticipation as Mega Evolution – Phantasmal Flames. Building on the mechanics introduced in the Mega Evolution base set, this follow-up brings new powerhouses, fresh artwork, and a heavy dose of fan-favorite Pokémon. Scheduled for a global release on November 14, 2025, Phantasmal Flames is already making waves among players and collectors alike.
What Makes Phantasmal Flames Special?
Phantasmal Flames isn’t just another continuation of the Mega Evolution series—it’s the set that highlights Fire- and Darkness-type Pokémon, with the spotlight firmly on Mega Charizard X ex and Mega Gengar ex. Drawing heavily from Japan’s Inferno X expansion, the set introduces more than 120 cards, including:
- Multiple new Mega Evolution Pokémon ex
- The first wave of regular Pokémon ex in the Mega Evolution era
- Over 15 cards with special illustrations, making it a prime target for collectors
This expansion blends nostalgia with competitive potential, ensuring it appeals to both long-time players and new entrants to the TCG.
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Featured Mega Evolution Pokémon ex
Several iconic Mega Evolutions make their return in Phantasmal Flames. Among the confirmed headliners are:
- Mega Charizard X ex – The flagship card and biggest chase of the set. Its attack Inferno X has no damage cap, capable of one-shotting most opposing Megas by discarding Fire Energy.
- Mega Gengar ex – A Darkness-type threat, synergizing well with energy engines and confusion tactics.
- Mega Sharpedo ex – Striking artwork and competitive Dark-type options make it one of the standout non-Charizard cards.
- Mega Lopunny ex – Offering unique utility and Special Illustration Rare treatment.
- Mega Diancie ex – A Fairy-inspired addition with collectible appeal.
- Mega Heracross ex – A returning fan favorite, though it struggles in a Fire-heavy meta.
Regular Pokémon ex Arriving in This Set
Alongside the Megas, Phantasmal Flames debuts standard ex cards for several new faces:
- Empoleon ex – A potential Water-type control piece.
- Rotom ex – Featured in one of the set’s Special Illustration Rares.
- Mismagius ex – A frustrating draw engine that inflicts Confusion when opponents switch Pokémon.
- Oricorio ex – A Fire-type support option, often paired with Charizard strategies.
Special Illustration Rares and Collectible Highlights
Collectors have plenty to chase in this set:
- Mega Charizard X ex gets both a Special Illustration Rare and a Mega Hyper Rare, making it the most valuable card in Phantasmal Flames.
- Mega Sharpedo ex and Mega Lopunny ex also feature in SIR versions.
- A Dawn-themed Supporter card is expected to become a secondary chase.
- Interestingly, Mega Gengar ex does not receive an SIR, but its base card is still highly desirable.
Pre-Release and Availability
- Pre-release events begin on November 1, 2025, at official tournament stores.
- The set becomes playable on Pokémon TCG Live starting November 13, 2025, one day before the physical release.
- Unlike the delays that affected earlier Mega Evolution products, Phantasmal Flames will see a simultaneous global release across all major regions.
The Phantasmal Flames expansion delivers exactly what fans expect: a mix of powerful Mega Evolutions, competitive tools, and collector-worthy chase cards. With Mega Charizard X ex leading the charge and Darkness support ensuring balance, this set is shaping up to be one of the most exciting expansions in recent years.
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Whether you’re hunting Charizard golds, planning new deck strategies, or simply enjoying the return of Mega Evolution Pokémon, Phantasmal Flames promises a fiery experience that will define the Pokémon TCG scene heading into 2026.
