Pokémon TCG Announces 'Black Bolt', 'White Flare' Sets News - Latest Updates and Information

Pokémon TCG Announces

Pokémon TCG Unveils New Scarlet & Violet: Black Bolt and White Flare Expansions

The Pokémon Company has announced a pair of complementary expansions continuing the Scarlet & Violet TCG series. Titled Scarlet & Violet: Black Bolt and Scarlet & Violet: White Flare, both expansions will launch globally on July 18, 2025.

Scarlet & Violet: White Flare and Black Bolt - English Reveal

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These expansions spotlight all 156 original Unova region Pokémon, each receiving either illustration rare or special illustration rare treatment with version-exclusive variants. The Black Bolt expansion features Zekrom, while White Flare stars Reshiram. Both sets introduce three premium foil patterns including rare Poké Ball and Master Ball designs.

Nostalgic Throwbacks & New Features

Fans will appreciate throwbacks to the original Black & White series, including retro foil treatments and Basic Energy cards using classic designs. A new Black White rare card style debuts, featuring monochromatic full artwork themed to each expansion.

Pokémon TCG: Black Bolt and White Flare Preorders

Preorders are expected to open in mid-May, following the pattern of previous releases like May's Destined Rivals expansion. Stay tuned to IGN for updates and follow @IGNDeals on Twitter for stock alerts.

Pokémon TCG - Scarlet & Violet: White Flare - Credit: The Pokémon Company

Confirmed Release Schedule:

July 18, 2025:
- Elite Trainer Box (9 boosters + promo Thundurus/Tornadus)
- Binder Collection (5 boosters + album)
- Unova Poster Collection (4 boosters + starters promo)
- Unova Mini Tins (2 boosters + extras)

August 1, 2025:
- Tech Sticker Collection (3 boosters + theme stickers)
- Victini Illustration Collection (4 boosters + premium Victini)

August 22, 2025:
- Booster Bundles (6 packs per expansion)

Digital Access & Key Features

Digital versions launch a day early on July 17 via Pokémon TCG Live, featuring login bonuses and online play. Each expansion includes: - 6 Pokémon ex
- 8 ultra rare cards
- Special illustration rare Supporters
- All Unova Pokémon in illustration rare variants

More details and card previews will be revealed in coming weeks.

Pokémon TCG: Today's Best Deals

Prismatic Evolutions Surprise Box
$79.00 ~~save 24%~~ $59.99 at Amazon

Surging Sparks Booster Bundle
$54.90 ~~save 9%~~ $49.99 at Amazon

151 Poster Collection
$40.97 at Amazon

Current highlights include the Infernape V Box ($43.99) with four boosters and premium promos, and the Prismatic Evolutions Eevee ex box featuring chase promos valued up to $60. For collectors, rare singles like Pikachu ex ($289.76) and Magikarp ($159.99) offer significant discounts.