Mega Evolution Pokémon cards are back! For the first time since the XY era, this much-loved mechanic returns as we step into a brand-new chapter of the Pokémon TCG.
The base set of the upcoming block—timed alongside the release of Pokémon Legends: Z-A—is already shaping up to be one of the most stacked in recent memory. Expect golden grail chases, combined art cards, and stunning designs that showcase the power of these transformative forms.
Mega Evolution brings a nostalgia-fuelled surge of excitement, sending collectors rifling through their binders to revisit their favourites from 2017 while making room for what’s coming next.
From over 180 new cards arriving on October 10, here are the standout chase cards from Mega Evolution.
1. Mega Lucario ex (Ultra Rare)
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Our English Mega Evolution set draws from two Japanese releases—Mega Brave and Mega Symphonia. With Lucario and Gardevoir as their respective mascots, it feels only natural that one of them would rise as a defining card of this base set. And Mega Lucario ex does so in spectacular fashion.
This card introduces a new Ultra Rare treatment that shimmers entirely in gold foil, giving Mega Lucario ex an almost mythic presence—ancient, powerful, and reminiscent of treasured relics. Its design evokes the grandeur of Egyptian iconography, with Lucario depicted almost like an Anubis-like figure: poised, majestic, and cloaked in an aura of sacred energy.
Illustrated by 5ban Graphics, Mega Lucario ex stands at the centre of a burst of energy, arms outstretched toward the card borders. Behind it, an intricate mandala-style pattern deepens the card’s symbolic, ceremonial feel. Despite its relic-like aesthetic, this artwork represents a clear step into the future of Pokémon card design.
A standout of the Mega Evolution set, Mega Lucario ex delivers both visual impact and collector appeal in equal measure.
2. Mega Gardevoir ex (Ultra Rare)
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The counterpart to Mega Lucario ex, this Ultra Rare Mega Gardevoir ex shares the golden, radiant treatment that defines the base set’s most prestigious cards. Together, they form the glowing centrepieces of the Mega Evolution collection.
Mega Gardevoir has long held a dedicated following across multiple generations, and this Ultra Rare version reinforces that legacy. Illustrated once again by 5ban Graphics, the card’s shimmering gold finish elevates Gardevoir into something almost idol-like—regal, revered, and beautifully rendered.
Placed in a graceful floating pose, Mega Gardevoir ex sits at the centre of the card as ethereal mega energy radiates outward in geometric waves reminiscent of ceremonial mandalas. Every line communicates power and poise, presenting Gardevoir as both a formidable attacker and a figure of mystical wisdom.
Adding to its impact is the card’s remarkable 360 HP—pushing boundaries and setting new expectations for both collectors and competitive players. It’s a showcase of Gardevoir’s enduring presence within the TCG.
3. Mega Gardevoir ex (Special Illustration Rare)
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Mega Gardevoir ex returns with an exquisite interpretation of grace and power, embodying the mystical allure that has made this Psychic-type a fan favourite for generations. This special illustration rare serves as a tribute to a Pokémon that continues to shape the identity of the TCG.
Illustrated by Raito Kazama, the card immediately captivates with its dreamy pastel palette and swirling tapestry of Ralts, Kirlia, and Gardevoir dancing in harmony around the mega form. Starry motifs and intricate background patterns create a celestial atmosphere, transforming the artwork into a true piece of collectible art—ethereal, enchanting, and rich with detail. It’s a standout for collectors who value expressive, narrative-driven design.
As with other cards in this set, Mega Gardevoir ex balances playability with collectibility, offering competitive potential while also appealing to those looking to build or enhance their personal collections.
4. Mega Lucario ex (Special Illustration Rare)
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Mega Lucario ex returns as a kinetic centrepiece of the Mega Evolution set, capturing the pulse of competitive battling and the excitement surrounding this new era of the TCG.
Illustrated by Atsushi Furusawa, the artwork depicts Lucario mid-flight, fists ignited with aura energy as it clashes with Mega Venusaur across a sprawling city skyline. The result is a dynamic, action-packed scene that injects motion and intensity into the entire set.
The narrative quality of the illustration is what truly sets this card apart. Two titans collide amid sweeping trails of mega energy and blurred urban motion—an image that perfectly reflects Lucario’s longstanding reputation for power, speed, and fierce determination. It’s a style that resonates with both players and collectors.
With formidable stats, including 340 HP and a strong pairing of Aura Jab and Mega Brave, Mega Lucario ex offers solid strength in gameplay as well as standout appeal in any collection.
5. Mega Venusaur ex (Special Illustration Rare)
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From the lush, overgrown depths of Kalos emerges Mega Venusaur ex — the definitive Grass-type powerhouse of the Mega Evolution collection. While Mega Gardevoir brings elegance and Mega Lucario channels raw might, Venusaur stands as a living force of nature: bold, untamed, and built to impress collectors and players alike.
This special illustration rare, illustrated by mashu, commands attention with its explosive composition. Mega Venusaur is shown mid-roar, surrounded by surging mega energy and a burst of vivid foliage. The sweeping gradients of green, blue, and purple transform the card into a botanical spectacle.
Adding further charm is its connection to mashu’s Bulbasaur and Ivysaur artworks. When placed together, the trio forms a larger, cohesive scene — a detail fans of evolutionary art chains always appreciate.
In gameplay terms, Mega Venusaur ex stands out with a staggering 380 HP — the highest ever printed — reinforcing its presence as both a collector’s gem and a battlefield titan.
A lavish, thematic treatment elevates this classic Pokémon into a true showpiece of the set, glistening as the jungle’s enduring legend.
6. Mega Latias ex (Special Illustration Rare)
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A swirl of city lights and aurora energy places Mega Latias ex firmly in the spotlight, offering a dazzling interpretation of the beloved Eon Pokémon within the Mega Evolution collection.
Illustrated by AKIRA EGAWA, the artwork bursts with motion as Latias soars above a glowing skyline, trailing iridescent waves of mega energy. The piece radiates a strong sense of adventure and nostalgia, especially for fans who remember the high-altitude journeys across Hoenn.
Collectors will appreciate the rich storytelling woven into the illustration. Every line and colour reflects the enduring bond between Latias and Latios, evoking themes of guardianship and connection. The background itself glows with energy, giving Mega Latias the aura of a vigilant protector watching over a sleeping city — a perspective rarely explored in past sets.
In competitive play, Mega Latias ex brings its own strengths. Strafe enables quick repositioning, while Illusory Impulse delivers an immense 300 damage, balanced by the cost of discarding all attached Energy.
Visually striking and mechanically potent, Mega Latias ex stands out as one of the most memorable special illustration rares in the Mega Evolution lineup.
7. Lillie’s Determination (Special Illustration Rare)
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Beneath the wide skies and golden blooms of Melemele Meadow, Lillie’s Determination emerges as the sentimental showpiece of Mega Brave — a Supporter card whose artwork captures the hope, warmth, and resolve that made the Sun & Moon era so iconic.
Illustrated by satomo, the scene shows Lillie standing serenely in her signature sunhat and summer dress, clutching her Poké Ball bag as fields of flowers stretch into the distance. It’s an instantly recognisable moment for fans who followed her journey across Alola, blending nostalgia with exquisite artistry.
Lillie has long been one of the franchise’s most beloved characters, and her enduring popularity ensures this card holds a special place among collectors. With its gentle storytelling and elegant composition, it stands out as one of the most emotionally resonant Trainer cards in the Mega Evolution set.
8. Mega Absol ex (Special Illustration Rare)
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With wings unfurled beneath the city’s night glow, Mega Absol ex arrives as one of the most striking special illustration rares in Mega Brave — a card rich with nostalgia and dramatic flair.
Mitsuhiro Arita brings a gothic, cinematic energy to the artwork. Mega Absol stands poised atop a rooftop, its sweeping white wings contrasting sharply against the urban dusk. The aesthetic carries subtle influences from early 2000s manga and emo visual motifs, giving the card a unique cross-genre appeal that resonates well beyond the usual TCG audience.
Collectors are also drawn to the rumoured synergy with the beloved Noivern V from Evolving Skies, with both cards believed to form a connected cityscape when displayed together — a detail fans of set lore always enjoy uncovering. Combined with Mega Absol’s cult-favourite status, the card stands out as a naturally coveted pull.
In gameplay, Mega Absol ex offers tactical utility. Death Period can instantly dispatch an opponent’s Pokémon when the right number of damage counters are in place, while Claw of Darkness provides a powerful 200-damage strike alongside hand-disruption potential.
9. Mega Kangaskhan ex (Special Illustration Rare)
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Amid a festival of crystals and colour, Mega Kangaskhan ex and its energetic offspring burst onto the scene, taking centre stage in the Mega Evolution set. This artwork celebrates the iconic mother-and-child duo in a way that’s both playful and heartwarming.
GOTO minori delivers pure kinetic joy in this illustration. The baby Kangaskhan leaps from its parent’s pouch, bounding alongside the Mega-evolved form as confetti and shimmering crystals explode around them. It’s Kangaskhan’s legacy brought vividly to life — a dynamic partnership filled with charm, movement, and excitement.
Beneath the narrative flair lies genuine tactical depth. The Run Errand ability allows players to draw two cards per turn while Mega Kangaskhan ex remains active, offering a subtle but valuable draw engine. Offensively, Rapid-Fire Combo hits for 200 damage, with bonus damage added for each successful coin flip, injecting an element of high-energy unpredictability into matches.
For fans of Gen 1 nostalgia and expressive artwork, Mega Kangaskhan ex stands out as a joyful and memorable addition to the Mega Evolution lineup.
10. Acerola’s Mischief (Special Illustration Rare)
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The final standout of the Mega Evolution lineup is Acerola’s Mischief, a beautifully soft and atmospheric Supporter card that captures the playful charm of the Alolan Trial Captain.
Rendered in gentle lines and dappled colours, the artwork depicts Acerola seated in a dusk-lit forest alongside her loyal Sableye. Warm golden sparks and floating orbs illuminate the scene, giving it a magical, slightly mysterious quality befitting her character.
Scattered beside her are various mystical items and Pokémon-themed trinkets, as though caught mid-adventure or partway through a playful ritual. The standout detail is Acerola stitching a Mimikyu cloak — a delightful narrative touch that fans of “Mimikins” will immediately appreciate.
With its enchanting storytelling and characterful illustration, Acerola’s Mischief shines as one of the most endearing and evocative Supporter cards in the set.
What else should you look out for?
This base set is absolutely stacked, offering plenty of chase cards beyond the core Mega Evolution lineup. Many of these feature artwork that inspires, emotes, and adds deeper storytelling to the set.
Lt. Surge’s Bargain
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One of the earliest attention-grabbers was the special illustration rare of Lt. Surge’s Bargain. With bold, almost sketch-like linework and a completely fresh artistic style, the iconic Gym Leader feels revitalised. A cheeky Voltorb cameo adds extra charm and character to the scene.
Bulbasaur (Illustration Rare)
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The first of two Grass starters, Bulbasaur receives a vibrant and stylistic treatment. Swirls of green, pink, and purple create a labyrinth of colour as the Pokémon leaps toward a burst of mega energy, forming part of a larger evolving tableau.
Ivysaur (Illustration Rare)
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Continuing the sequence, Ivysaur mirrors the energetic motion of its pre-evolution. Together, both cards create a sweeping artistic journey through the Grass line — a visual flourish collectors always appreciate.
Marshadow (Illustration Rare)
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The mythical Marshadow makes a haunting appearance, emerging from a forest clearing as it creeps toward an unsuspecting Pikachu. The face of the franchise being caught off guard sparked early collector excitement, and even as initial hype has settled, the card’s simplicity and atmospheric tension keep it highly desirable.
Final Thoughts
There’s so much to get us kickstarted in a new block for the Pokémon TCG. Scarlet & Violet treated us incredibly well — and now the Mega era’s base set hints at even more fandom, fanfare, and fantastical designs still to come.
With stunning artwork, nostalgic returns, and bold new mechanics, this set sets the tone for an exciting chapter ahead.
So… are you ready for the next era of the Pokémon TCG?
Shop the Mega Evolution set and all things Pokémon TCG — including booster boxes and Elite Trainer Boxes — right here at Gathering Games.
