Images: The Pokemon Company
Mega Evolution Pokémon last appeared in the XY and Sun & Moon series.
The Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) is bringing back Mega Evolutions for the first time since 2016. This was announced at Pokémon Presents on Thursday (27 February), and it’s already sparking excitement among the player and collector community.
Mega Evolution Pokémon last appeared in the XY and Sun & Moon Series, but this comeback brings with it a twist. Unlike before, when they were linked to Pokémon EX cards that could be played as Basic Pokémon, these new Mega Evolutions belong to the Pokémon ex line and follow the usual evolution process.
This means Mega Lucario ex now evolves directly from Riolu, skipping the need for a Lucario ex as an intermediary.
How do Mega Evolutions shake up the game?
Mega Evolution is being introduced as part of a larger theme, with multiple Pokémon TCG sets expected to feature these powerful Pokémon.
Like their VMAX predecessors, these Mega Evolution Pokémon ex will grant an opponent three prize cards when knocked out. Additionally, evolving into a Mega Pokémon will immediately end a player's turn, a balancing mechanic that returns from the original Mega Evolution cards in the XY era.
According to official details, Mega Lucario ex will be a Stage 1 Pokémon with a massive 340 HP pool, rivaling some of the bulkiest Stage 2 Pokémon ex cards. Its Aura Jab attack deals 130 damage while allowing the player to attach up to three Basic Energy cards from their discard pile to their Benched Pokémon. Meanwhile, its Mega Brave attack hits for a devastating 270 damage.
Another confirmed powerhouse is Mega Gardevoir ex, a Stage 2 Pokémon ex card with even higher HP than any Pokémon ex revealed so far. Its Overflowing Wishes attack allows players to attach a Basic Energy from their deck to each Benched Pokémon, setting up an explosive follow-up with Mega Symphonia, which deals 50 damage for each Energy card attached to all of the player’s Pokémon.
New strategies with a familiar evolution system
One key distinction between Pokémon EX and Pokémon ex cards is how they enter play. Pokémon EX were Basic Pokémon that could be played straight onto the board, while Pokémon ex require traditional evolution. This means that Mega Evolution Pokémon ex are replacing their non-Mega forms rather than being separate Basic cards. However, this also allows them to be stronger than their previous Mega Evolution counterparts, as seen in Mega Lucario ex’s high HP and powerful attacks.
To further shake up the meta, a new Item card called Premium Power Pro will be introduced, boosting the attacks of Fighting-type Pokémon by 30 damage. This functions similarly to classic cards like PlusPower and Power Tablet, giving players a way to amplify their attacks at the most crucial times.
With these new mechanics, the return of Mega Evolution to the Pokémon TCG is set to bring some electrifying battles. Whether trainers are ready to embrace Mega Lucario ex’s raw strength or Mega Gardevoir ex’s Energy-fueled strategy, the game is about to enter an exciting new phase. More details will likely be revealed soon as the set’s release approaches.
For more on the announcements from Pokémon Presents February 2025, click here.
