Black Bolt is one of the standout Pokémon TCG sets of 2025, released alongside White Flare as part of the Scarlet & Violet block. Where White Flare leaned into fiery Victini and Reshiram, Black Bolt delivers a darker, more electric theme with Zekrom, Genesect, and mythical favorites taking center stage. Featuring some of the rarest pulls of the year, including the coveted Black White Rare cards, Black Bolt has become a must-have for both collectors and competitive players.
Why Black Bolt is so popular
What makes Black Bolt special?
- Introduces Black White Rare cards, a new ultra-rare tier with extremely low pull rates.
- Features Unova legendaries like Zekrom, Kyurem, and Genesect in powerful new ex forms.
- Balances heavy-hitting competitive cards with stunning Illustration and Special Illustration Rares.
Honorable Mentions
Not every card could break into the Top 10, but these honorable mentions are still well worth hunting down:
- N’s Plot SIR: a Trainer card that captures the emotional heart of Unova’s story, beloved by character collectors.
- Meloetta EX SIR: elegant and musical, Meloetta’s Special Illustration Rare appeals to mythical collectors.
- Excadrill EX SIR: bold artwork and solid playability make this a sleeper pick.
- Kyurem EX Full Art: while its SIR is higher on the list, this version is still striking.
- Haxorus Illustration Rare: a fierce Dragon-type IR that’s become a favorite for binder displays.
1. Victini Black White Rare - #171
Victini once again rises to the top as one of the hardest pulls in the entire Scarlet & Violet era. This mythical Pokémon already symbolizes victory and luck, making it a natural fit for a chase card. The Black White Rare treatment adds dazzling contrast and rarity, pushing it into grail territory for collectors.
Market value: Around $430–$450 raw, with PSA 10s commanding premium prices.
2. Zekrom EX Black White Rare - #172
As the “bolt” half of Black Bolt, Zekrom EX shines in its Black White Rare form. Its electric-dragon energy and dynamic artwork capture the set’s theme perfectly. Fans of legendary Pokémon from the Unova era have flocked to this card, and its rarity ensures strong long-term value.
Market value: Typically $400–$430 raw.
3. Zekrom EX SIR - #166
The Special Illustration Rare version of Zekrom EX offers a slightly more attainable option for fans who want this legendary dragon in their collection. The artwork is stunning, leaning into Zekrom’s raw, elemental power. For many collectors, this is the centerpiece card if the BWR feels out of reach.
Market value: Around $200–$210 raw.
4. Seismitoad Illustration Rare - #105
Seismitoad may not be a legendary, but its Illustration Rare has skyrocketed in popularity. The bold, detailed artwork brought new attention to this often-overlooked Pokémon, making it one of the most surprising chase cards of the set. Its high demand relative to its rarity has kept prices strong.
Market value: Around $180–$190 raw.
Fun fact
Black Bolt and White Flare were designed as twin sets, mirroring each other with Victini as their shared mascot. Black Bolt leans into Zekrom and darker tones, while White Flare highlights Reshiram and fiery energy. Together, they pay homage to the legendary Pokémon of Unova in a way that hasn’t been done since the Black & White era.
5. Genesect EX SIR - #169
Genesect’s futuristic design has always attracted a niche following, and its Special Illustration Rare elevates that even further. The art leans into its mechanical, sci-fi nature, giving it a look unlike any other card in Black Bolt. This one appeals equally to collectors who love mythical Pokémon and those who prize unique card art.
Market value: Roughly $60–$70 raw.
6. Kyurem EX SIR - #165
One of the legendary Tao Trio, Kyurem EX is as icy and imposing as ever. Its Special Illustration Rare makes it one of the most majestic cards in the set, with sweeping artwork that captures its frozen power. Kyurem collectors will want this card alongside its White Flare counterparts.
Market value: Around $65–$80 raw.
7. N’s Plan SIR - #170
N remains one of the most beloved Pokémon characters, and this Special Illustration Rare Trainer card captures his connection to the Unova storyline beautifully. Character rares have been rising in popularity, and this card is one of the most emotional pulls of the set.
Market value: Typically $60–$80 raw.
8. Meloetta EX SIR - #167
Meloetta brings mythical grace to Black Bolt, with a Special Illustration Rare that emphasizes its musical elegance. While not the priciest card in the set, it has broad appeal among fans of more delicate, artistic designs. Its status as a mythical ensures steady collector demand.
Market value: Around $50–$60 raw.
9. Serperior EX SIR - #164
As one of the Unova starter evolutions, Serperior has a loyal fanbase. Its Special Illustration Rare is vibrant and stylish, highlighting its regal design. Starter cards often hold long-term collector appeal, and this one is no exception.
Market value: Around $45–$50 raw.
10. Haxorus Illustration Rare - #147
Haxorus rounds out the chase list with an Illustration Rare that’s every bit as fierce as the Dragon-type itself. The artwork is intense and battle-ready, making it a standout for display. While not as expensive as the BWRs, it’s an affordable chase that still packs a punch.
Market value: Around $35–$40 raw.
Discover more chase cards of your favourite sets!
From Prismatic Evolutions to White Flare, every Pokémon set has its own must-have cards. Dive into our other chase card guides to keep up with the most valuable pulls.
Buy Black Bolt
Looking to start your Black Bolt chase? Shop Beam Card Shop’s [Black Bolt collection] and hunt down Victini, Zekrom, and more.