Latest Gen 5 Pokémon TCG sets introduce new BWR card rarity

Zekrom and Reshiram cards in a 2025 Pokémon TCG dual set? Count us in!

The Pokémon Trading Card Game is set to shine a light on Pokémon from the Unova region once more, as the franchise has just declared the upcoming release of a two-part collection, also introducing a brand-new card rarity known as BWR.

The upcoming expansion packs for the Scarlet & Violet series are called Black Bolt and White Flare. These packs showcase Gen 5’s legendary duo Zekrom and Reshiram. The Pokémon Company is planning to launch these sets in Japan on June 6, with the international release (including English version) scheduled for July 18.

Images allegedly showing Zekrom EX and Reshiram EX hint at a possible new card rarity called BWR in future releases. This rarity might be distinguished by its striking, single-colored design.

A closer look at Pokémon TCG’s new BWR card rarity

Instead of using symbols for rarity like English Pokémon cards do, Japanese versions use letters instead. Unlike English cards that have distinct rarity symbols, Japanese cards carry one to three letters indicating their scarcity. For instance, Common cards are marked with the letter ‘C’, Uncommon cards bear the letter ‘U’, and Rare ones display ‘R’.

Regarding Black Bolt and White Flare, the majority of cards will stick to the conventional method of marking card rarities. However, there are two exceptions: the special Zekrom ex and Reshiram ex cards with only one color.

Although the precise definition of BWR remains unverified, numerous enthusiasts speculate that it means “Black and White Rare.” It’s yet to be determined if Zekrom ex and Reshiram ex are the sole BWR cards within this collection; we’ll find out over time.

As a dedicated collector, I’m thrilled about Victini, another unique Pokémon card that buckles the trend by not being printed on black or white. Unlike other cards in the forthcoming Unova-themed sets, this one will take center stage as a Promo card, granted to victors of upcoming BWR battle tournaments happening right here in Japan.

More sample cards from Pokémon TCG: Black Bolt and White Flare

In the forthcoming Black Bolt and White Flare collections, you’ll find some additional cards to check out. It’s important to note that since these sets are combined, certain cards can only be found in one of the two options available.

Black Bolt pack

White Flare pack

As a passionate fan, I can’t help but speculate that when these sets make their way onto the English scene, there’s a high likelihood they’ll combine into one epic collection, much like how Heat Wave Arena and Glory of Team Rocket became one harmonious set in the past.

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2025-05-05 05:42