Mega Charizard X Ignites the Pokémon TCG in Phantasmal Flames This November

Stew @ PokéPortal
5 days ago
3 min read

The Pokémon TCG is heating up once again! A brand-new set, Phantasmal Flames, arrives on 14 November 2025, and it’s set to bring back one of the most iconic Mega Evolutions of all time: Mega Charizard X ex.

This marks the second English release in the current Mega Evolution block, and already it’s standing out as one of the most compact — yet exciting — expansions we’ve seen in years.

A Smaller Set with a Big Punch

Unlike the sprawling expansions of recent times, Phantasmal Flames is streamlined to around 90 cards before secret rares, making it the smallest standard English set since 2010’s HS – Undaunted.

Don’t mistake small for simple, though. With secret rares added in, the total climbs to roughly 130 cards, echoing the scale of 2017’s Sun & Moon: Crimson Invasion. For collectors, this means a more manageable checklist — and for players, a tighter, more focused competitive pool.

Products on the Way

Trainers can expect a strong product lineup to accompany the release:

Elite Trainer Box (ETB): Includes an exclusive Illustration Rare promo of Charcadet, making its first appearance as a special insert.
Ultra-Premium Collection: Dedicated to Mega Charizard X ex, this premium box launches the same day as the set and features a unique promo card that will no doubt become a centrepiece for collectors.

Preorders are expected to appear on PokemonCenter.com within the week — so fans should keep their eyes peeled.

From Japan to the UK

Phantasmal Flames takes inspiration from Japan’s Inferno X set (80 cards before secret rares), along with cards drawn from the upcoming Mega Gengar ex and Mega Diancie ex decks.

UK and European fans won’t have to wait too long for these either: both decks hit shelves here on 24 October 2025, giving players the chance to get Mega Gengar ex and Mega Diancie ex a few weeks ahead of the main set. Each deck will also include two exclusive Illustration Rares — Haunter and Meloetta.

Charizard: A Tradition of Fire

Charizard has long been the torchbearer of major expansions, almost always appearing in the second or third set of a new era. Past highlights include:

XY: Flashfire (2014)
Sun & Moon: Burning Shadows (2017)
Sword & Shield: Darkness Ablaze (2020)
Scarlet & Violet: Obsidian Flames (2023)

With Phantasmal Flames in 2025, that tradition is alive and well — and it suggests we may see yet another Charizard-focused release when the next generation arrives in 2027.

Looking Ahead

Japan’s roadmap shows just how packed the end of 2025 will be for TCG fans:

5 September: Starter Sets (Mega Gengar ex & Mega Diancie ex)
26 September: Inferno X featuring Mega Charizard X ex
16 October: Legends: Z-A (global release)
28 November: MEGA Dream ex High Class Pack, starring Mega Dragonite ex
Teasers ahead: Ninja Spinner (Mega Greninja ex), Storm Emeralda (Mega Rayquaza ex), Abyss Eye

Final Word

Between its collector-friendly size, stunning promos, and the return of Mega Charizard X, Phantasmal Flames is shaping up to be one of the most exciting sets of the year. Whether you’re chasing rare pulls or building up your deck with competitive cards, this release is going to be a red-hot addition to your collection.

Circle 14 November on your calendar — the flames are coming.