The Pokémon TCG’s White Flare expansion has dazzled collectors this summer, delivering some of the most visually striking cards in recent memory. It’s a hallowed light to illuminate the closing of the Scarlet and Violet TCG block.
Launched in July 2025 alongside the darker Black Bolt set, White Flare is the ‘light half’ of the Unova collection – defined by bright palettes, clean foils, and radiant touches that channel the energy of Pokémon White Version. Where Black Bolt thrives in stormy shadows, White Flare embraces flame, light, and a purity of design that lets every detail shine.
There’s new artwork for box legendaries. There’s maverick mythical designs that are uniquely Unovan. There’s half a region of rare artworks. And with that, there’s fan clamour for cards.
So, whether you hunt for prestige rarities or cards that tell a story, here are the White Flare pulls currently commanding the most attention on the market.
1. Victini (BW Rare)
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No card embodies the spirit of White Flare (and Black Bolt too) quite like the Victini BW Rare.
While the card was printed in both halves of the twin expansions, it’s the White Flare version that feels like the truest home for Victini – a fitting nod to the legendary’s fiery luminosity within this set’s ivory‑and‑ember aesthetic.
Illustrated by 5ban Graphics, Victini is enveloped in scorching crimson and ember texture that leap from the foil. It’s a card that doesn’t just depict power; it radiates energy, optimism, and that ever‑present promise of victory.
Part of the appeal here lies in Victini’s rarity. As a BW Rare, the odds of pulling one are extremely low, making it one of the toughest chases across either expansion. Coupled with Victini’s perennial popularity as both Unova’s lucky charm and a mythical beloved by fans, the chase is hot.
For White Flare collectors, this is the grail card. It’s the literal flame at the heart of the set. Whether you’re building a full collection or simply looking for a statement piece, Victini BW Rare is the card that embodies White Flare’s brighter, blazing identity.
2. Reshiram ex (BW Rare)
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The Reshiram ex BW Rare is a striking centerpiece of the White Flare expansion and a fierce counterpart to Zekrom’s thunderous presence in Black Bolt.
This card captures the pure white flame of Reshiram with an elegance that radiates both power and grace, making it an essential chase for any Unova enthusiast. Unlike Zekrom ex, Reshiram ex BW Rare is exclusive to the White Flare set.
The artwork from the acclaimed 5ban Graphics takes centre stage here with an ethereal white foil embossed finish that seems to glow with an internal light – a striking contrast to the dark tones of Zekrom ex. The card’s minimalist yet majestic design depicts Reshiram poised in a dynamic stance, its flowing mane and tail awash in delicate silver highlights that ripple like flames.
The contrast between the pure white backdrop and the fine details of Reshiram’s form creates a card that feels simultaneously sacred and potent – a beacon of legendary status amid the set’s monochrome aesthetic. A fine pull for anyone lucky enough to land the legendary.
3. Reshiram ex (Special Illustration Rare)
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The second appearance of Reshiram ex on this list is its Special Illustration Rare version.
While it doesn’t command quite the same premium as the BW Rare counterpart, this card remains a highly sought-after prize due to its striking artwork and strong gameplay relevance.
The Special Illustration Rare depicts Reshiram in a dynamic pose, surrounded by vibrant orange-red flames that accentuate its majestic white form. The artwork pays tribute to the fiery dragon’s regal presence with a rich colour palette that contrasts beautifully against the card’s luminous foil finish.
Notably, this design includes subtle green touches that reference the Pokémon’s canonical trainer, N (the green tones marry up neatly with the colours of the trainer’s hair). This brilliantly adds an extra layer of appeal for fans of Unova.
With a pull rate significantly higher than the BW Rare but still scarce compared to common cards, the Reshiram ex Special Illustration Rare occupies an important niche: it’s a blend of impressive art and attainable rarity.
4. Hydreigon ex (Special Illustration Rare)
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A pseudo-legendary makes its way onto the list. Lurking in the darker corners of the White Flare expansion is the Hydreigon ex Special Illustration Rare.
While it doesn’t stand shoulder to shoulder with Unova’s box legends, this card has carved out a strong following thanks to its atmospheric artwork and distinct vibe – one that caters to collectors who lean toward Dragon-type power wrapped in eerie visual storytelling.
The art here is a masterclass in tone, attributable to Takumi Wada. Hydreigon is depicted soaring through a moonlit canyon, its three heads snarling in different directions as it arcs through the air like a midnight spectre. The entire card is bathed in cool purples and shadowy indigos, with jagged cliff faces and a lightning-lit sky hinting at the chaos this Pokémon brings wherever it flies.
For fans of Dark-type dragons, gothic aesthetics, or cards that refuse to play by artistic conventions, this is a standout example of what the Pokémon TCG does best: breathe new life into old favourites.
5. Hilda (Special Illustration Rare)
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The Hilda Special Illustration Rare claims the distinction of being the first Trainer card to appear on this top ten list.
This card has quickly become a cult favourite – especially among fans nostalgic for the Unova era and its iconic protagonists. Hilda, the beloved Trainer from Generation V, gets a full-art treatment here that blends bold visual storytelling with a strong sense of character identity.
Drawn by Naoki Saito, this dynamic illustration places Hilda at the centre of the action alongside some of Unova’s most iconic partners: Pignite, Blitzle, and Unfezant.
The background echoes the urban-meets-wild landscapes of Unova, with flickers of stylised lightning and vivid colour framing the ensemble. Hilda herself steps with trademark confidence: her signature twin ponytails, white-and-pink cap, and denim shorts are faithfully rendered, while her exuberant pose and cheerful expression radiate resolve.
With a moderate pull rate, Hilda offers both attainability and collectibility in equal measure. Her broad appeal spans character collectors, Unova devotees, and full-art Trainer fans looking for cards that celebrate the journey as much as the legends themselves.
6. Keldeo ex (Special Illustration Rare)
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The Keldeo ex Special Illustration Rare gallops into sixth spot as one of the more vibrant and compositionally elegant entries in White Flare.
While it doesn’t carry the same mythical weight as the legendary dragons, this card wins over collectors with its sheer visual charm and emotional storytelling. For fans of the Swords of Justice or anyone captivated by Keldeo’s role as the youthful, daring newcomer, this is a true gem.
The artwork captures an earnest-looking Keldeo standing stoically next to a forest stream. Lit up with a kaleidoscope of colour, flowing linework, and painterly backgrounds, the entire piece has a whimsical, almost storybook feel — quite fitting for this mythical Unova Pokémon.
Keldeo is sometimes overlooked in this generation of light and dark. But here, it brings a quieter, more introspective finish to a list dominated by elemental power.
7. Jellicent ex (Special Illustration Rare)
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One of the most atmospheric Water-types in White Flare, the Jellicent ex Special Illustration Rare floats serenely into the mid-tier chase slots.
Illustrated by Narano, the card places the male Jellicent at centre stage, drifting regally through the depths with flowing tentacles and a commanding presence. Behind him, the female form makes a cameo appearance — her softer shape and colours providing visual balance and a subtle reference to the species’ duality.
The palette is a dreamy mix of deep ocean blues, dappled with shafts of light breaking through the water’s surface. It’s exactly the scene you want for a Pokémon that’s part haunting legend, part whimsical sea monarch.
On the competitive side, Jellicent ex makes waves with its Oceanic Curse Ability, which locks down your opponent’s Item and Tool cards while it’s Active. In tandem, Power Press rewards investment, hitting significantly harder if you attach extra energy – making this card both flavourful and functionally disruptive.
8. Oshawott (Illustration Rare)
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Oshawott brings a dose of pure charm to White Flare with this Illustration Rare. It’s a card that appeals not just to competitive collectors, but to anyone drawn to the playful side of the Unova region’s starter Pokémon.
Illustrated by OKACHEKE, the scene is a little oasis of calm – a hammock strung above a sparkling riverbank where Oshawott snoozes blissfully. The Water-type clutches its scallop shell, surrounded by floating hibiscus-like flowers and gentle shafts of glittering sunlight. The artist masterfully blends vibrant blues, lush greens, and a touch of warmth, inviting you to linger in the lazy summer afternoon atmosphere.
This card is a favourite for character collectors and fans of slice-of-life Pokémon moments, perfectly capturing the restful innocence of a region otherwise known for epic battles and legendary tales.
9. Samurott (Illustration Rare)
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The Illustration Rare of Samurott in White Flare is every bit the scene setter you’d expect of a Pokémon with seminal standing.
With a flock of Wingull making a cameo and waves breaking around the rock where it stands, this Samurott print takes you to the ocean’s edge and back. An easy favourite among collectors.
In play, Samurott IR isn’t topping competitive charts, but as a collector’s piece it ticks every box: dynamic environment, atmosphere‑heavy staging, and a depiction that immortalises one of Unova’s most distinctive starters in a way few cards have before.
Raw, martial energy with balanced environmental storytelling. We approve.
10. Zoroark (Illustration Rare)
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In tenth place, a Zoroark Illustration Rare. Zoroark takes on the role of Unova’s elusive trickster in this White Flare entry. It’s a card that melds strategy, mystique, and artistic flair, capturing everything fans love about the illusion fox Pokémon.
Illustrated by Iwamoto05, the card places Zoroark deep within a twilight-hued forest, where swirling mists and clawed trees break into shades of indigo, violet, and teal. Zoroark sits poised on a broken trunk, its crimson mane billowing at length.
On the battlefield, Zoroark’s classic attacks return: Mind Jack punishes opponents for filling their bench, while Foul Play lets you turn your rival’s own power against them, reinforcing Zoroark’s reputation as a master of subterfuge.
While there are more lofty chases in White Flare, collectors are likely to prize this card for how completely it embodies the Pokémon’s lore – bold, shadowy, and forever scheming at the forest’s edge.
What else should you look out for?
With a sizeable chunk of Unova printed in Special Illustration Rares and Illustration Rares in this set, you’re not short on options for what to look out for.
Emboar (Illustration Rare)
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The Illustration Rare of Emboar, for example, is Pokémon scene-setting at its finest. The Fire-type tank is shown perched on a cliff edge, posing in front of a smouldering volcano. It’s a blazing chase beyond your top ten.
Chandelure (Illustration Rare)
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From craggy summits to creepy haunted houses, you can also find an Illustration Rare Chandelure that feels every bit the phantasmal presence you’d expect from one of Unova’s ghoulish entries. Hovering above a ballroom table, manoeuvring crockery at will, the Ghost-type is sure to garner the attention of collectors.
But beyond those, there’s plenty to discover. It’s a journey through Unova as you work your way through the Pokédex with each encounter and pull.
Final Thoughts
What sets White Flare apart is the way it captures brightness, warmth, and artistry without losing the dramatic punch collectors crave. From the blazing spectacle of Reshiram to the quiet charm of Oshawott, the set covers the full spectrum: cinematic legends, atmospheric illustration rares, and endearing snapshots of everyday Unova life.
It feels cohesive yet varied. It feels like every card is bound together by that ivory‑and‑ember glow that defines the expansion. And for collectors, it importantly has the prestige and fun-factor needed to round off a Pokémon era. Scarlet and Violet, you have ended with aplomb.
So what are you looking to pull?
Shop Black Bolt/White Flare and all things Pokémon TCG, including booster boxes and elite trainer boxes right here at Gathering Games.
