The Pokémon Trading Card Game has officially announced its upcoming expansion, Black Bolt and White Flare. Set to launch on June 6, 2025, in Japan, this dual-pack expansion is regarded as the Generation 5 counterpart to the popular Scarlet and Violet 151 set from Generation 1. While the exact timing for its international release is still undetermined, Pokémon fans can expect a delay in availability outside Japan.
In 2025, The Pokémon Company (TPC) has been busy rolling out a succession of new TCG expansions. Following the releases of Prismatic Evolutions, Journey Together, and the imminent Destined Rivals—set to debut in late May—this new expansion marks the fourth installment for the year. Black Bolt and White Flare had been teased for months, with leaks surfacing as early as January 2025, keeping dedicated fans intrigued about its eventual reveal.
This exciting new expansion will shine a spotlight on the Unova region, including all 156 Pokémon from this generation. Each Pokémon will feature either an Illustration Rare or Special Illustration Rare variant. In addition to traditional booster packs, TPC will offer a deluxe pack containing five boosters, each with seven cards, ensuring that buyers receive at least one guaranteed Illustration Rare or rarer card.
There will also be a three-pack set that comes with a bonus promotional Victini IR card. In line with TPC’s established approach, they will gradually unveil details about the new cards. So far, they’ve introduced 21 cards, highlighting the evolution lines of the Generation 5 starters: Snivy, Tepig, and Oshawott.
Four EX cards have been confirmed as well—Zekrom and Reshiram, featured prominently on the booster packs, alongside Kyurem EX and Serperior EX. Moreover, Black Bolt and White Flare will bring back the Tinsel Holofoil paper, known for its striking horizontal stripes, a nostalgic element not seen since the Black and White expansion era. Individual boosters will retail for ¥1,450 (approximately $10), while the deluxe five-pack will be priced at ¥2,640 (around $18.34).
Although an international release is anticipated for summer 2025, no official confirmation has yet been provided.