Black Bolt (Japanese Pokémon TCG Subset)

Release Date: March 14, 2025 (Japan, released alongside Hot Wind Arena).
Card Count: 63 cards in the main set + additional secret/extra rarities.
Booster Format: 30 packs per booster box.
Localization: Traditional Chinese and Korean versions followed later; the English equivalent set is also part of Destined Rivals.

Key Features & Themes

• Pairs with Hot Wind Arena as a dual release.

• Focuses heavily on Trainer’s Pokémon, with Pokémon directly linked to their iconic Trainers.

• The set leans into darker, Electric-themed and dramatic designs, contrasting the fiery theme of Hot Wind Arena.

• Designed with both collectors and competitive players in mind, offering Trainer-linked Pokémon ex cards and staple support items.

Stand-Out Cards

• N’s Zekrom ex — the headline card, symbolic of the “Black Bolt” theme.

• Elesa’s Emolga ex — a fan-favorite with unique artwork.

• Cheren’s Stoutland ex — notable Trainer-linked Pokémon.

• N’s Zorua/Zoroark line and other Dark/Electric combinations provide flavor and deck options.

• Secret rarities include Art Rares (AR), Special Art Rares (SAR), and gold Ultra Rares — Zekrom ex SAR being the main chase.

Why It Matters

• Complements Hot Wind Arena by showcasing opposite themes (Electric/Dark vs Fire/Light).

• Reinforces the ongoing Trainer’s Pokémon identity of this block.

• Highly anticipated by collectors due to N’s return as a featured Trainer with Zekrom, a major fan-favorite pairing.

• Forms a key half of what became the English set Destined Rivals.