Chaos rising: new pokémon tcg set unleashes mega evolution may 2026

The Pokémon Company International has officially unveiled its next expansion for the Pokémon Trading Card Game: Chaos Rising. Scheduled for release on May 22, 2026, the set will center on powerful Mega Evolutions featured in the upcoming Pokémon Legends: Z-A video game.

Mega floette ex leads the charge

Early previews highlight Mega Floette ex wreaking havoc in Lumiose City, alongside other formidable Mega Evolutions like Mega Greninja ex, Mega Pyroar ex, and Mega Dragalge ex. Trainers can anticipate a diverse range of cards, including five Mega Evolution Pokémon ex, five Pokémon ex, 11 Illustration Rare cards, 18 Ultra Rare cards, and six Special Illustration Rare cards and Supporter cards.

The set is being released in the wake of "Perfect Order," which launched on March 27th and focused on Mega Zygarde ex from Pokémon Legends: Z-A. "Ascended Heroes," released in late January, is still rolling out through April.

Prerelease tournaments kick off on May 9th at select retailers, and Pokémon TCG Live support will begin on May 21st, allowing players to test out the new cards digitally. This announcement follows a recent Pokémon Presents livestream that teased a 30th Anniversary set later this year, promising "an exciting line of products."

The financial success of the recently released Pokémon Pokopia for the Nintendo Switch 2, exceeding 2.2 million units sold over its launch weekend, underscores the enduring popularity of the franchise. Preorders for Chaos Rising are expected to begin soon at The Pokémon Center and major retailers.

The release of the Chaos Rising Elite Trainer Box, featuring Mega Greninja, coincides with the expansion's launch. Pricing for various products, including the Elite Trainer Box, booster boxes and bundles, are available at retailers like TCGplayer and Amazon.

Robert Anderson is IGN’s Senior Commerce Editor.