The Pokémon Company has announced the details for its upcoming Mega Evolution—Delta Reign set for the Pokémon Trading Card Game, slated for release on November 6. The set prominently features the return of Mega Rayquaza, an iconic Pokémon not seen in the TCG since the XY—Ancient Origins expansion in 2015.
New Set Contents and Mechanics
Mega Evolution—Delta Reign will contain over 135 cards. This includes four Mega Evolution Pokémon ex cards, six Pokémon ex cards, and 14 illustration rare Pokémon. The expansion also introduces six new Stadium cards that combine to form three Legendary Stadiums. When two specific Stadium cards are played side-by-side, they create an extended artwork, with booster packs containing a Legendary Stadium featuring both required halves.
The four Mega Evolution Pokémon ex cards featured in this set are Rayquaza, Golurk, Malamar, and Golisopod. Among the rare cards is a special illustration featuring embroidered artwork by artist Tayu. In total, the set will include 17 ultra rare Pokémon and Trainer cards, and six special illustration rare Pokémon and Supporter cards.
Availability and Pre-Release Play
Players will have the opportunity to experience the new cards before the official launch. Participating retailers will host pre-release tournaments starting October 24, allowing fans to play with the Delta Reign cards early. The set will also be available digitally on Pokémon TCG Live on November 5, a day before its physical release.
Booster packs and Elite Trainer Boxes will be the primary ways to obtain the new Delta Reign cards. Pre-orders for the physical products are not yet available.
Rayquaza's Recent Presence
This new set continues a recent trend of Rayquaza-themed releases. In July, Pokémon TCG Pocket received the Ruler of the Skies expansion set, also centered around the legendary Pokémon. The announcement follows ongoing rumors about potential modern ports of Pokémon Ruby, Emerald, and Sapphire, the third-generation games that originally introduced Rayquaza. Despite their critical acclaim and remakes for the Nintendo 3DS, these titles are not currently available on modern gaming platforms.