Pitch Black — Where to Buy & Live Stock Tracker (2026)

The fifth expansion in the Mega Evolution era (set code ME05), themed around darkness and shadows. Pitch Black features Mega Darkrai ex, Mega Zeraora ex, Mega Chandelure ex, and Mega Excadrill ex. Based on Japan's Abyss Eye set, this expansion contains over 115 cards including 20 Trainer cards and over 35 cards with special illustrations. Pre-release events run July 4–12, 2026.

Series: Mega Evolution · Release Date: 2026-07-17

• Booster Box (Display) — 36 booster packs. The core product for opening in bulk.
• Elite Trainer Box (ETB) — 9 booster packs, foil Zarude Illustration Rare promo card, card sleeves, dice, damage counters, and player's guide.
• Booster Bundle — 6 booster packs at a value price.
• 3-Pack Blister — 3 booster packs with a promo card.
• Build & Battle Box — Pre-release kit with 4 booster packs, a 23-card Evolution pack, and promo card for tournament play. Available from July 4.
• Collection products — Themed boxes with exclusive promo cards (details to be announced).

Pitch Black features over 35 cards with special illustrations of both Pokémon and Trainers. Based on the Japanese Abyss Eye set, the most valuable cards expected:

1. Mega Darkrai ex SIR — The defining chase card of the set. Darkrai is one of the most popular Mythical Pokémon, and this Mega Evolution debuts with 280 HP and the devastating Dusk Raid attack (110 damage, plus 110 more if you have Benched Pokémon with damage counters). The SIR artwork is expected to command premium prices.
2. Mega Zeraora ex SIR — The Electric-type Mythical Pokémon gets a striking Mega Evolution. Zeraora has grown significantly in popularity since its debut in Generation VII, making this a sought-after collector card.
3. Mega Chandelure ex SIR — The Ghost/Fire-type Mega Evolution brings a dark, atmospheric design. Chandelure's unique typing and aesthetic make this a standout Special Illustration Rare.
4. Mega Excadrill ex SIR — The Ground/Steel-type powerhouse Mega Evolves with a bold, aggressive artwork style. Excadrill has competitive relevance that adds demand beyond pure collectibility.
5. Zarude Illustration Rare — Confirmed as the ETB promo card, making it one of the most accessible chase cards in the set. Zarude's jungle aesthetic fits the dark theme perfectly.

The set contains over 115 cards total, with 20 Trainer cards and over 35 special illustration cards. The smaller set size compared to Ascended Heroes (295 cards) means individual chase cards have better pull rates.

Pitch Black releases in the sweet spot of the 2026 TCG calendar — July 17 sits between Chaos Rising (May) and the 30th Celebration set (September), giving collectors focused attention on this expansion before the anniversary hype takes over.

Key investment considerations:

• Darkrai factor: Darkrai is one of the most iconic Mythical Pokémon, consistently ranking among the top 20 most popular Pokémon globally. The Mega Darkrai ex SIR has strong potential as a long-term hold.
• Dark-type appeal: Dark-themed sets historically perform well with collectors who appreciate the edgier aesthetic. The "Pitch Black" branding adds thematic cohesion that drives sealed product demand.
• Pre-30th anniversary timing: Products purchased at MSRP before the 30th Celebration set diverts attention could appreciate as supply dwindles during the anniversary hype period.
• Smaller set size: Over 115 cards means concentrated value. Fewer total cards = better odds per pack for chase cards.

For European collectors, pre-order during the July 4–12 pre-release window if possible. TCGRadar alerts ensure you catch retailer listings the moment they go live.