What is the Pokémon TCG “Storm Emeralda” Expansion Pack? Features & Release Date

What is the Pokémon TCG “Storm Esmeralda” Expansion Pack? Features & Release Date

The highly anticipated Pokémon TCG expansion pack, “Storm Emeralda”, is set to drop in Japan on Friday, July 31, 2026.

This set is generating massive hype because it marks the long-awaited return of Mega Evolution to the Pokémon TCG! Specifically, the Legendary Pokémon from Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire are finally back in their Mega-Evolved forms. Rayquaza has always been a gold standard for both players and collectors, so expectations for this set are sky-high.

To put things into perspective, older legendary cards like Rayquaza V (Alternate Art) and M Rayquaza EX (SR 1st Edition) are currently trading for well over 100,000 JPY on the secondary market. If this set introduces a “MUR” (Mega Ultra Rare) or “SAR” (Special Illustration Rare) version of Mega Rayquaza ex, we can expect its market value to instantly match—or even surpass—those legendary grails.

“Storm Emeralda” Predicted Top Hit / Pull Rankings

*Note: This list includes predictions by our editorial team.

Rank	Card Name	Estimated Market Price (JPY)	Estimated Buyback Price (JPY)
1	Mega Rayquaza ex (MUR)	200,000 JPY~	140,000 JPY
2	Mega Rayquaza ex (SAR)	100,000 JPY~	70,000 JPY
3	Talonflame ex (SAR)	10,000 JPY~	7,000 JPY
4	Zinnia’s Trust (SAR)	7,000 JPY~	4,900 JPY
5	Mega Rayquaza ex (SR)	5,000 JPY~	3,500 JPY
6	Mega Malamar ex (SAR)	5,000 JPY~	3,500 JPY
7	Raikou ex (SAR)	5,000 JPY~	3,500 JPY
8	MC’s Hype (SAR)	3,500 JPY~	2,450 JPY
9	Mega Golisopod ex (SAR)	3,500 JPY~	2,450 JPY
10	Heat Rotom ex (SAR)	3,000 JPY~	2,100 JPY
11	Zinnia’s Trust (SR)	2,500 JPY~	1,750 JPY
12	Mega Golurk ex (SAR)	2,500 JPY~	1,750 JPY
13	Wishiwashi ex (SAR)	2,000 JPY~	1,400 JPY
14	Tate & Liza’s Training (SAR)	2,000 JPY~	1,400 JPY
15	MC’s Hype (SR)	1,500 JPY~	1,050 JPY
16	Raikou ex (SR)	1,500 JPY~	1,050 JPY
17	Mega Rayquaza ex (RR)	1,000 JPY~	700 JPY
18	Talonflame ex (SR)	1,000 JPY~	700 JPY
19	Mega Malamar ex (SR)	1,000 JPY~	700 JPY
20	Mega Golisopod ex (SR)	1,000 JPY~	700 JPY

Breaking Down the Biggest Chase Cards (Prediction)

Mega Rayquaza ex (MUR)

Estimated Market Price	SNKRDUNK Price	Estimated Buyback Price
¥200,000~	–	¥140,000

*Note: This card is a predicted inclusion by our editorial team.
*Note: The reference image used features a different rarity.

The MUR (Mega Ultra Rare) is a special luxury rarity from the Pokémon Card Game MEGA era, featuring a stunning all-gold etched finish. Because of their abysmal pull rates, MUR cards are highly coveted by hardcore collectors. Historically, the mascot Mega Evolution ex of each set gets the MUR treatment. With the recent “Mega Darkrai ex (MUR)” currently hovering around 100,000 JPY, a fan-favorite like Mega Rayquaza could easily double that value.

Mega Rayquaza ex (SAR)

Estimated Market Price	SNKRDUNK Price	Estimated Buyback Price
¥100,000~	–	¥70,000

*Note: This card is a predicted inclusion by our editorial team.
*Note: The reference image used features a different rarity.

Rayquaza’s emerald-green scales, fully developed jaw, and long whiskers radiating with weather-controlling particles give it an unmatched, awe-inspiring presence. Full-art Rayquaza cards historically appreciate beautifully over time. If a SAR (Special Illustration Rare) drops in this set, expect it to immediately join the ranks of high-end Pokémon grails.

Talonflame ex (SAR)

Estimated Market Price	SNKRDUNK Price	Estimated Buyback Price
¥10,000~	–	¥7,000

*Note: This card is a predicted inclusion by our editorial team.
*Note: The reference image used features a different rarity.

First introduced in Pokémon X and Y, Talonflame became a competitive legend thanks to its incredible speed and utility, earning a special place in many players’ hearts. Despite its popularity and badass aesthetic, Talonflame has never received the SAR treatment. If a stunning full-art Talonflame ex drops, nostalgia and competitive love will drive its price way up.

Zinnia’s Resolve (SAR)

Estimated Market Price	SNKRDUNK Price	Estimated Buyback Price
¥7,000~	–	¥4,900

*Note: This card is a predicted inclusion by our editorial team.
*Note: The reference image used features a different rarity.

Zinnia is deeply tied to Rayquaza’s lore. In Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire, she teaches Rayquaza the specific move required to Mega Evolve. She has already appeared alongside Rayquaza on iconic cards like “Rayquaza VMAX (CSR)” from VMAX Climax, and her solo card “Zinnia’s Resolve” from Blue Sky Stream (Evolving Skies) remains a collector favorite. A new SAR version will almost certainly follow this upward price trajectory.

Mega Rayquaza ex (SR)

Estimated Market Price	SNKRDUNK Price	Estimated Buyback Price
¥5,000~	–	¥3,500

*Note: This card is a predicted inclusion by our editorial team.
*Note: The reference image used features a different rarity.

SR (Super Rare) cards for Mega Evolution ex are unique because they showcase two illustrations in one: the massive Mega-Evolved form in the foreground, and its regular form visible in the background. While the pull rates are higher than SARs (making them more affordable), Rayquaza’s sheer popularity will push this card’s value well above the average SR.

Mega Malamar ex (SAR)

Estimated Market Price	SNKRDUNK Price	Estimated Buyback Price
¥5,000~	–	¥3,500

*Note: This card is a predicted inclusion by our editorial team.
*Note: The reference image used features a different rarity.

Mega Malamar captivates fans with its eerie, mysterious charm and lore of using hypnotic powers to control others. A SAR version would likely feature highly stylized, eerie, and atmospheric artwork. This distinct vibe will appeal heavily to both players and niche collectors who love darker Pokémon aesthetics.

Raikou ex (SAR)

Estimated Market Price	SNKRDUNK Price	Estimated Buyback Price
¥5,000~	–	¥3,500

*Note: This card is a predicted inclusion by our editorial team.
*Note: The reference image used features a different rarity.

Raikou is a legendary Pokémon said to have descended with lightning. Resembling a ferocious tiger, it forms part of the iconic “Legendary Beasts” trio alongside Entei and Suicune. A dynamic SAR artwork capturing its wild, mythical energy will command massive demand from Gen 2 nostalgics and legendary card collectors.

Fanfare of the MC (SAR)

Estimated Market Price	SNKRDUNK Price	Estimated Buyback Price
¥3,500~	–	¥2,450

*Note: This card is a predicted inclusion by our editorial team.
*Note: The reference image used features a different rarity.

Originally printed in the Hot Air Arena subset, “MC’s Hype” is expected to get a reprint here. This Support card is highly valued in the competitive meta for its late-game hand-refresh effect. A gorgeous SAR print will see high demand from competitive players looking to max-bling their decks, alongside character collectors.

Mega Golisopod ex (SAR)

Estimated Market Price	SNKRDUNK Price	Estimated Buyback Price
¥3,500~	–	¥2,450

*Note: This card is a predicted inclusion by our editorial team.
*Note: The reference image used features a different rarity.

Inspired by the deep-sea giant isopod, Golisopod gained a brand-new Mega Evolution in Pokémon Legends: Z-A Mega Dimension. Mega Evolution grants it extra limbs, a Steel typing, and a far more menacing silhouette. Golisopod already boasts a dedicated fanbase in the TCG, so a SAR treatment for its newly revealed Mega form is bound to trigger heavy hype.

Heat Rotom ex (SAR)

Estimated Market Price	SNKRDUNK Price	Estimated Buyback Price
¥3,000~	–	¥2,100

*Note: This card is a predicted inclusion by our editorial team.
*Note: The reference image used features a different rarity.

First introduced in Pokémon Platinum, Heat Rotom is the adorable yet troublesome form Rotom takes when possessing a microwave oven. A SAR version is expected to feature playful, chaotic artwork of its heat-based antics, making it an essential pickup for Rotom form collectors and art lovers alike.

Zinnia’s Resolve (SR)

Estimated Market Price	SNKRDUNK Price	Estimated Buyback Price
¥2,500~	–	¥1,750

*Note: This card is a predicted inclusion by our editorial team.
*Note: The reference image used features a different rarity.

Full-art Support SR cards are staple chase items because they highlight the character’s full personality. Currently, the Japanese market is heavily favoring full-art Pokémon over Supporters, making these SRs relatively accessible. Still, with “Zinnia’s Resolve” marking her first card in five years, this will be highly sought after by character collectors.

Mega Golurk ex (SAR)

Estimated Market Price	SNKRDUNK Price	Estimated Buyback Price
¥2,500~	–	¥1,750

*Note: This card is a predicted inclusion by our editorial team.
*Note: The reference image used features a different rarity.

Mega Evolution unseals the lock on Golurk’s chest, allowing immense energy to burst forth from its cracked body. The lore of Golurk detaching its arms to fire rocket punches has always resonated with mecha fans. A debut SAR artwork capturing this raw, unleashed mechanical energy will appeal strongly to both players and mecha aesthetics fans.

Wishiwashi ex (SAR)

Estimated Market Price	SNKRDUNK Price	Estimated Buyback Price
¥2,000~	–	¥1,400

*Note: This card is a predicted inclusion by our editorial team.
*Note: The reference image used features a different rarity.

Wishiwashi’s massive “School Form” returns as a Pokémon ex after a 5-year hiatus! Its only previous special art card was the iconic “Wishiwashi CHR.” Reminiscent of Swimmy (Leo Lionni’s classic children’s book about tiny fish forming a giant ocean predator), a SAR rendition utilizing a storybook art style would easily become an instant fan favorite.

Tate & Liza’s Training (SAR)

Estimated Market Price	SNKRDUNK Price	Estimated Buyback Price
¥2,000~	–	¥1,400

*Note: This card is a predicted inclusion by our editorial team.
*Note: The reference image used features a different rarity.

Tate and Liza are the famous twin Gym Leaders from Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire. This card lets you draw 2 cards, with a bonus recycling mechanic if a Stadium card with “Legend” in its name is active on the field. If “Legend” Stadiums become meta staples, this SAR will see strong demand from both competitive players and Hoenn nostalgics.

Fanfare of the MC (SR)

Estimated Market Price	SNKRDUNK Price	Estimated Buyback Price
¥1,500~	–	¥1,050

*Note: This card is a predicted inclusion by our editorial team.
*Note: The reference image used features a different rarity.

A highly playable Support card that will attract both character fans and competitive grinders alike. If printed with stunning art, it will become an active trade target.

Raikou ex (SR)

Estimated Market Price	SNKRDUNK Price	Estimated Buyback Price
¥1,500~	–	¥1,050

*Note: This card is a predicted inclusion by our editorial team.
*Note: The reference image used features a different rarity.

Raikou ex possesses an aggressive early-game Ability that has already caught the eyes of competitive builders. If it performs well post-launch, players looking to bling out their tournament decks will drive up the price for the full-art SR version.

Mega Rayquaza ex (RR) [058/076]

Estimated Market Price	SNKRDUNK Price	Estimated Buyback Price
¥1,000	–	¥700

As the mascot of the set, Mega Rayquaza ex is already a competitive heavyweight. Its ability allows it to accelerate Energy to itself straight from the deck, and its attack deals scaling, uncapped damage. Being a Colorless type, it easily synergizes with various generic Support cards. Depending on box print volumes, this standard RR (Double Rare) could command a premium compared to other RRs.

Talonflame ex (SR)

Estimated Market Price	SNKRDUNK Price	Estimated Buyback Price
¥1,000~	–	¥700

*Note: This card is a predicted inclusion by our editorial team.
*Note: The reference image used features a different rarity.

On the competitive side, it’s a game-changer: its Ability allows you to play it directly onto your Bench from your hand if you have a Colorless Mega Evolution ex (like Mega Rayquaza ex) in play. Combined with a deck-searching attack, this full-art SR will see high demand from tournament players.

Mega Malamar ex (SR)

Estimated Market Price	SNKRDUNK Price	Estimated Buyback Price
¥1,000~	–	¥700

*Note: This card is a predicted inclusion by our editorial team.
*Note: The reference image used features a different rarity.

Mega Malamar’s attack “Psycho Marionette” deals 70 damage multiplied by the number of Benched Pokémon your opponent controls. Combined with items like “Hypno Flute” (which pulls Basic Pokémon onto your opponent’s bench), it has serious rogue deck potential that could boost its full-art SR price.

Mega Golisopod ex (SR)

Estimated Market Price	SNKRDUNK Price	Estimated Buyback Price
¥1,000~	–	¥700

*Note: This card is a predicted inclusion by our editorial team.
*Note: The reference image used features a different rarity.

Its attack “Finish Off” deals up to 220 damage for very low Energy requirements. Its sleek, metallic Steel-type aesthetic matches its brutal Pokédex lore, making the full-art SR a prime target for players seeking budget-friendly rarity upgrades.

“Storm Esmeralda” Booster Box Market & Secondary Price Predictions

Sealed Booster Box (With Shrink-Wrap)

Pokemon Card Game MEGA Expansion Pack “Storm Emeralda” Box

¥26,500~

Box Condition / Item	Estimated Market Price (JPY)	Estimated Shop Buyback Price (JPY)
Sealed Booster Box (With Shrink-Wrap)	20,000 JPY~	14,000 JPY~

Unsealed Booster Box (No Shrink-Wrap)

[No shrink] Pokemon Card Game MEGA Expansion Pack “Storm Emeralda” Box

¥22,000~

Box Condition / Item	Estimated Market Price (JPY)	Estimated Shop Buyback Price (JPY)
Unsealed Booster Box (No Shrink-Wrap)	15,000 JPY~	— JPY

Product Information

Detail	Information
Product Name	Pokémon TCG MEGA Expansion Pack “Storm Emeralda”
Release Date	Friday, July 31, 2026
Booster Pack Price	200 JPY (tax included) per pack (5 cards)
Booster Box Price	6,000 JPY (tax included) per box (30 packs)
Official Website	Pokémon TCG Official “Trainers Web” Website

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