Pokémon TCG Black Bolt and White Flare: Top Cards Every Collector Needs

• Posted: July 21, 2025, 2:32 pm
• in Sports Card News
• by bionic

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Each Pokémon TCG release features standout chase cards, and the latest expansions, Black Bolt and White Flare, have collectors buzzing with excitement. These innovative sets offer a thrilling mix of Illustration Rares and Special Illustration Rares, and certain cards have quickly climbed the ranks to become the most sought-after collectibles on the market. Here's your guide to the hottest chase cards from these unique expansions.

Must-Have Cards from Pokémon TCG Black Bolt and White Flare

Black Bolt and White Flare represent a groundbreaking moment as the first-ever split sets released for the English Pokémon TCG. This unique format breaks the mold of traditional rarity distributions, introducing collectors to an exciting new collecting challenge. As a result, many cards from these sets have surged in value, fueled by their unique rarity and significant popularity.

Master Ball Reverse Holos

One of the standout highlights of these expansions is undoubtedly the Master Ball Reverse Holo variations. Every common, uncommon, and rare card in these sets has a Master Ball Reverse Holo counterpart, but finding one is no easy feat. Typically, collectors can expect to find just one per booster box, with a massive pool of 86 possible cards, making it extremely challenging to pinpoint specific versions. Due to their scarcity, these Master Ball holos are poised to increase significantly in value as collectors race to complete their collections.

Hilda (Special Illustration Rare, 171/086 WHT)

Hilda finally makes her debut in White Flare, instantly capturing attention as the beloved female protagonist from Pokémon’s fifth generation. Her Special Illustration Rare card doesn’t just stand out visually; it’s also incredibly practical in gameplay, enabling players to search their decks for an Evolution Pokémon and any energy type. This combination of aesthetic appeal and game utility has catapulted Hilda to the top of collectors' wish lists.

N’s Plan (Special Illustration Rare, 170/086 BLK)

N, a fan-favorite character and one of Pokémon’s most iconic antagonists, headlines this Special Illustration Rare card in Black Bolt. Beyond its captivating artwork, this card offers excellent gameplay mechanics, allowing players to shift two energies from benched Pokémon to an active Pokémon swiftly. This strategic advantage, paired with N's widespread popularity, makes this card a must-have for both collectors and competitive players.

Kyurem ex (Special Illustration Rare, 165/086 BLK)

The legendary Kyurem gets its very first Special Illustration Rare treatment in Black Bolt, instantly becoming a highly coveted card. Its artwork perfectly encapsulates Kyurem’s icy, formidable presence, making it a stunning addition to any collection. Given its popularity among fans of the Tao Trio and Pokémon collectors alike, expect Kyurem ex to be a highly prized card for years to come.

Reshiram ex (Special Illustration Rare, 166/086 WHT)

White Flare's Reshiram ex not only dazzles visually but packs a serious punch in gameplay. With its powerful Blazing Burst attack capable of delivering an extraordinary 380 damage, this card is a favorite among players aiming for decisive victories. Collectors, too, are eager to secure it due to its blend of beauty and battle prowess.

Zekrom ex (Special Illustration Rare, 166/086 BLK)

As the poster Pokémon for Black Bolt, Zekrom ex naturally emerges as a standout collectible. Featuring impressive artwork that captures Zekrom's electrifying power, this card appeals equally to players building competitive decks and collectors seeking visually striking cards.

Zekrom ex (Black White Rare, 172/086 BLK)

This Black White Rare Zekrom ex distinguishes itself through its unique monochrome black appearance, instantly catching collectors' eyes. Although functionally identical to other Zekrom ex variants, its distinctive aesthetic ensures it remains an enduring highlight within any Pokémon card collection.

Reshiram ex (Black White Rare, 173/086 WHT)

Complementing Zekrom's black variant, White Flare’s Reshiram ex boasts a sophisticated monochrome white finish. Its exceptional rarity and standout design promise it will be treasured and sought-after by collectors long into the future.

Victini (Black White Rare, 172/086 WHT, 171/086 BLK)

Victini holds the unique distinction of appearing in both expansions, with minor variations primarily in the collector and set marking. However, the White Flare edition is slightly rarer due to its larger card pool, making it even more desirable among collectors. Despite its subdued appearance in online images, Victini’s striking red foil finish truly shines when seen in person, elevating it as a standout collectible.

With their unmatched combination of rarity, design, and gameplay utility, these cards from Pokémon TCG Black Bolt and White Flare are set to remain highly sought after by collectors and players alike for years to come.