Pokémon TCG: Scarlet and Violet – Black Bolt and White Flare Expansion Release Date Confirmed

The Pokémon Company International has officially unveiled the global release date for the Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG): Scarlet and Violet – Black Bolt and Scarlet and Violet – White Flare split expansion.

Set for launch on July 18, 2025, this expansion brings a fresh wave of content to collectors and competitive players, celebrating the Unova region’s iconic Pokémon with a variety of exclusive products and collectible cards. The new split expansion—Scarlet and Violet – Black Bolt and Scarlet and Violet – White Flare—spotlights all 156 Pokémon originally discovered in Unova.

Each Pokémon will be represented in the set with either unique illustration rare or special illustration rare style cards, significantly expanding the visual diversity within the series.

Zekrom takes center stage in the Black Bolt expansion, while Reshiram is featured in White Flare, giving fans of the Legendary duo a dedicated showcase across both products. Among the highlights are the introduction of three distinct parallel foil sets in each expansion, including cards adorned with shimmering rainbow Poké Ball or Master Ball patterns.

The set also pays homage to the classic Black and White Series, reintroducing nostalgic foil patterns and Basic Energy cards using the series' original designs, an enticing callback for longtime fans of the franchise. Each expansion includes different versions of six Pokémon ex, eight ultra rare Pokémon and Supporter cards, as well as one illustration rare or special illustration rare card dedicated to every single Unova Pokémon.

Additionally, players and collectors can look forward to special illustration rare Supporter cards, further increasing the appeal for set completionists.

The introduction of striking Black White rare cards continues to push the artistic boundaries of Pokémon TCG, offering monochromatic black or white card motifs that bring bold, new aesthetics to the game. Players and collectors will have a variety of ways to experience the Scarlet and Violet – Black Bolt and White Flare expansions through multiple product releases: - **Elite Trainer Box (July 18, 2025):** Each box contains nine booster packs, an exclusive illustration rare style promo card (Thundurus for Black Bolt, Tornadus for White Flare), and assorted gameplay accessories. - **Binder Collection (July 18, 2025):** Packs five booster packs and a nine-pocket album featuring Zekrom or Reshiram for card organization. - **Unova Poster Collection (July 18, 2025):** Offers packs from both expansions, promo cards featuring Snivy, Tepig, and Oshawott, and a two-sided Unova-themed poster. - **Unova Mini Tin (July 18, 2025):** Includes booster packs, an art card, and a sticker card to match the tin design. - **Tech Sticker Collection (August 1, 2025):** Bundles three packs, a promo card (Reuniclus or Gothitelle), and a themed sticker sheet for tech personalization. - **Victini Illustration Collection (August 1, 2025):** Contains booster packs, plus rare promo and oversized cards centered around Victini. - **Booster Bundle (August 22, 2025):** Provides six booster packs from either expansion for bulk collectors. For digital players, Scarlet and Violet – Black Bolt and White Flare will also launch in the Pokémon TCG Live app on July 17, 2025, available on iOS, Android, macOS, and Windows platforms.

Trainers can collect and battle with the latest cards online, receiving in-game bonuses for early participation. According to a statement from a spokesperson at The Pokémon Company International, the upcoming expansions aim to honor Unova’s legacy while integrating modern gameplay features and collectible designs.

The company’s ongoing commitment to delivering nostalgia and innovation in every set continues to energize both established players and new fans. Pokémon TCG: Scarlet and Violet – Black Bolt and White Flare expansions will be released globally at participating retailers on July 18, 2025, reinforcing The Pokémon Company’s dedication to evolving the trading card experience across physical and digital platforms.

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