Mega Evolution—Ascended Heroes

What Makes It Special

• Mega Evolution Returns: The set introduces 13 Mega Evolution Pokémon ex, including the debut of Mega Dragonite ex—a Pokémon that never received a Mega form in the video games. Other headliners include Mega Gengar ex, Mega Lucario ex, and Mega Charizard Y ex. These cards follow the 3-Prize rule, offering immense power with significant risk.
• New Rarity: Mega Attack Rare (MAR): Ascended Heroes debuts the "Mega Attack Rare." These 7 unique cards feature comic-book-style artwork with the Pokémon's attack name splashed across the art in bold, stylized text (Japanese kana on English prints), paying homage to the original XY-era designs.
• Huge Secret Rare Lineup: Collectors can chase 22 Special Illustration Rares (SIR), 33 Illustration Rares (IR), and 14 Ultra Rares. The set also includes gold-etched "Mega Ultra Rare" (MUR) cards, such as the Golden Mega Dragonite ex.
• Cross-Generational Roster: The set pulls cards from Japan's Mega Dream ex and Start Deck 100 Battle Collection. It features Trainer's Pokémon spanning from Kanto (Erika’s Tangela) to Paldea (Larry’s Komala), making it a nostalgic trip for long-time fans and a fresh experience for modern players.

Top Chase Cards & Market Buzz

• Mega Gengar ex (SIR): The undisputed heavy hitter of the set. Early Japanese market data suggests this could be one of the most expensive cards of 2026, featuring artwork described as "the sickest ever seen" for the ghost type.
• Mega Dragonite ex (Gold MUR): As a brand new Mega form, this gold-etched card is commanding high premiums. It represents a piece of Pokémon history as the first TCG appearance of this form.
• Pikachu ex (SIR): Even in a set dominated by Megas, Pikachu holds its own with a Special Illustration Rare featuring its trainer, likely referencing Red.
• Team Rocket's Mewtwo ex (SIR): A massive nostalgia play, this card depicts Mewtwo alongside Giovanni's minions, bridging the gap between the classic Team Rocket sets and the modern ex era.

Notes for Collectors

• Distribution Model: Unlike standard sets, you cannot buy a "Booster Box" of Ascended Heroes. Packs are found in products like the Erika/Larry Collection (Jan 30), Elite Trainer Boxes (Feb 20), and the Premium Poster Collection (March 20).
• Master Set Difficulty: With over 150 secret rares and staggered product releases containing exclusive promos (like N's Zekrom in the ETB), completing a master set will be a significant challenge. The pull rates for specific SIRs are estimated to be very low due to the sheer size of the secret rare pool.
• Competitive Viability: Cards like Mega Eelektross ex (Paralysis control) and the new Supporter "Canari" (Lightning tutor) are expected to impact the meta immediately. The set became legal for tournament play in mid-February 2026.