Black Bolt

Sarlet & Violet—Black Bolt Set

The Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) continues to electrify fans in 2025, with over 673,000 monthly searches for “Pokémon cards” underscoring its massive popularity. The Scarlet & Violet—Black Bolt set, released on July 18, 2025, alongside its counterpart Scarlet & Violet—White Flare, is a special expansion celebrating the Unova region’s Pokémon from Pokémon Black and White. Focusing on Zekrom ex and featuring over 100 cards with Black White Rare (BWR) cards, special illustration rares, and nostalgic foil patterns, Black Bolt captivates collectors, players, and investors. This guide covers general information, chased cards, product selection, investment potential, and tips for engaging with this dynamic set.

From Zekrom ex to Serperior, let’s explore why Scarlet & Violet—Black Bolt is a must-have in 2025 and how to source authentic products from trusted retailers like Card Chill.

General Information on Black Bolt

Scarlet & Violet—Black Bolt is a special expansion in the Scarlet & Violet series, released on July 18, 2025, with its Japanese counterpart, SV11B Black Bolt, launched on June 6, 2025. Paired with White Flare, it completes a dual set covering all 156 Pokémon from the Unova region (Pokémon Black and White, Black 2 and White 2). Black Bolt includes over 100 cards, emphasizing Electric, Grass, and Dark-type Pokémon like Zekrom and Serperior, and introduces Black White Rare (BWR) cards with striking monochromatic designs. Each Booster Pack contains 7 cards (Japan) or 10 cards (English), including 1 Basic Energy. The set is playable digitally via the Pokémon TCG Live app starting July 17, 2025, with Zekrom-themed cosmetics.

Key features include:

  • Over 100 Cards: Including 10+ Pokémon ex, 20+ illustration rares, and exclusive Black White Rare cards.
  • Nostalgic Elements: Features rainbow Poké Ball and Master Ball foil patterns, plus nostalgic Black & White Series holofoils.
  • Theme: Centers on the Unova region’s “ideals” theme, with Zekrom ex as the flagship Legendary Pokémon.
  • Prerelease Events: Held from July 4, 2025, for early access to cards.
  • Mechanics: Focuses on high-damage attacks and Trainer-Pokémon synergy, enhancing competitive play.

The set’s Unova focus, unique art styles, and meta relevance make it a standout in the Scarlet & Violet series.

Chased Cards in Black Bolt

Black Bolt is packed with high-value chase cards, prized for their artwork, rarity, and gameplay utility. Here are the top chased cards, based on secondary market values and collector sentiment as of August 2025:

1. Zekrom ex (Black White Rare)

  • Details: A striking monochromatic black design featuring Zekrom in a thunderous pose, with a 160-damage Bolt Strike attack and 330 HP.
  • Value: $120–$280 (PSA 10).
  • Why Chased: Exclusive BWR rarity, low pull rate (1 in 800 packs), and Zekrom’s iconic status drive demand.
  • Tip: A top candidate for grading due to its competitive strength and collector appeal.

2. Serperior (Special Illustration Rare)

  • Details: Features Snivy’s final evolution in a lush, verdant artwork with a 150-damage Solar Blade attack, designed by artist 5ban Graphics.
  • Value: $70–$180 (PSA 10).
  • Why Chased: Popular Unova starter and breathtaking artwork boost collectibility.
  • Tip: Collect alongside Snivy and Servine for a complete evolution line.

3. Hydreigon ex (Special Illustration Rare)

  • Details: A dark, menacing depiction of Hydreigon with Zweilous, offering a 140-damage Cruel Fang attack.
  • Value: $80–$200 (PSA 10).
  • Why Chased: Fan-favorite Dragon-type and dynamic artwork make it a collector’s gem.
  • Tip: Synergizes with Dark-type decks for competitive play.

4. Unova’s Professor Juniper (Special Illustration Rare)

  • Details: A Supporter card showing Professor Juniper in a vibrant lab setting, allowing players to draw 7 cards by discarding their hand.
  • Value: $40–$100 (PSA 10).
  • Why Chased: Competitive utility and nostalgic tie to Black & White Series drive demand.
  • Tip: Essential for deck-building and Unova-themed collections.

5. Snivy (Illustration Rare)

  • Details: An adorable depiction of Snivy in a forest scene, with a 50-damage Vine Whip attack.
  • Value: $45–$110 (PSA 10).
  • Why Chased: Cute starter Pokémon and high-quality artwork by rika appeal to collectors.
  • Tip: Pair with Serperior for a thematic set display.

Other notable cards include Zekrom (promo, Unova Poster Collection), Zebstrika (illustration rare), and Galvantula (illustration rare), valued for their art and gameplay potential.

Product Selection for Black Bolt

Black Bolt offers a variety of products tailored for collectors, players, and investors. Here’s a breakdown of the best options:

1. Booster Box (20 Packs, Japan; 36 Packs, Deluxe)

  • Best For: Collectors and investors chasing rares like Zekrom ex or Serperior.
  • Contents: 20 packs (7 cards each, Japan) or 35 cards per Deluxe Booster Pack (Japan, 1 AR guaranteed), with English versions varying. Enhanced Booster Boxes may include promos.
  • Price: $80–$120 (Japan), $150–$200 (Deluxe/English).
  • Tip: Hold sealed for long-term investment; Deluxe packs offer better pull rates for rares.

2. Elite Trainer Box (ETB)

  • Best For: Beginners and collectors seeking a complete package.
  • Contents: 9 Booster Packs, 65 Zekrom-themed sleeves, dice, counters, a storage box, and an exclusive promo (e.g., stamped Zekrom).
  • Price: $50–$60, with Pokémon Center ETBs at $65–$80.
  • Tip: Pokémon Center ETBs include unique promos, enhancing collectible value.

3. Booster Bundle

  • Best For: Budget-conscious collectors or casual players.
  • Contents: 6 Booster Packs, offering a cost-effective way to pull cards like Hydreigon ex or Snivy.
  • Price: $25–$35, with pre-order deals at $43 (originally $60).
  • Tip: Ideal for casual collecting or gifting.

4. Unova Poster Collection

  • Best For: Collectors seeking promos and display items.
  • Contents: 2 Black Bolt Booster Packs, 2 White Flare Booster Packs, 3 promo cards (Snivy, Tepig, Oshawott), and a two-sided poster.
  • Price: $20–$30.
  • Tip: Great for Unova-themed collectors and display enthusiasts.

5. Binder Collection

  • Best For: Collectors organizing cards.
  • Contents: 5 Booster Packs and a 9-pocket album featuring Zekrom.
  • Price: $25–$35.
  • Tip: Perfect for storing Black Bolt illustration rares safely.

Shop these products at Card Chill’s Pokémon Cards page, offering authentic singles and sealed products shipped from West London.

Investment Potential of Black Bolt

Black Bolt offers strong investment potential due to its dual-set structure, nostalgic Unova theme, and high-demand chase cards. Here’s why it’s a smart choice for 2025:

  • High-Value Chase Cards: Cards like Zekrom ex ($120–$280 PSA 10) and Hydreigon ex ($80–$200 PSA 10) are stabilizing at high values, with potential for growth as supply decreases.
  • Sealed Product Appreciation: Booster Boxes ($150–$200 retail) and Pokémon Center ETBs could double in value within 5–10 years, especially with limited print runs.
  • Nostalgic Appeal: The Unova focus and Black & White Series holofoils tap into nostalgia, driving long-term collectibility.
  • Unique Rarities: Black White Rare cards (e.g., Zekrom ex) and Master Ball foils are exclusive, boosting scarcity-driven value.
  • Scalping and Demand: Pre-order prices for Booster Bundles dropped from $60 to $43, but secondary market prices for sealed products are rising due to high demand.

Risks to Consider:

  • Market Volatility: Prices may fluctuate based on pull rates and meta relevance.
  • Counterfeits: High-value cards like Zekrom ex are targets for fakes—buy from trusted sources like Card Chill’s Pokémon hub.
  • Pull Rates: Low pull rates for BWR and SIR cards (e.g., 1 in 800 for Zekrom ex) make pack opening risky for investors.

Investment Tips:

  • Hold sealed Booster Boxes or ETBs for 5–10 years for maximum ROI.
  • Grade high-value cards like Zekrom ex or Serperior with PSA or Beckett to boost value.
  • Monitor TCGPlayer or eBay sold listings for price trends.
  • Focus on Pokémon Center exclusives and Deluxe Booster Packs for scarcity-driven value.

Tips for Engaging with Black Bolt

  1. Collect Strategically: Prioritize Black White Rares, special illustration rares, and promos for collectibility and value.
  2. Build Competitive Decks: Use Zekrom ex or Hydreigon ex for Electric and Dark-type strategies—test on Pokémon TCG Live.
  3. Join Local Leagues: Trade and play at events found via the Pokémon Event Locator.
  4. Protect Cards: Use sleeves, top loaders, and binders to maintain mint condition for grading or trading.
  5. Stay Informed: Follow Card Chill’s TCG Sets page for updates on Black Bolt products and trends.

Where to Buy Black Bolt Products

Purchase authentic Black Bolt cards and sealed products from Card Chill. Their Pokémon Cards page offers singles, Booster Packs, and ETBs, shipped from West London, ensuring no counterfeits. Visit Card Chill’s TCG Sets page for detailed set information.

Black Bolt FAQ

When was Black Bolt released?

July 18, 2025, with prerelease events starting July 4, 2025.

What are the most valuable cards?

Zekrom ex ($120–$280 PSA 10), Hydreigon ex ($80–$200 PSA 10), and Serperior ($70–$180 PSA 10).

Is Black Bolt a good investment?

Yes, due to nostalgic Unova appeal, unique Black White Rares, and strong sealed product potential.

Conclusion

Scarlet & Violet—Black Bolt is a landmark Pokémon TCG set in 2025, blending Unova nostalgia with innovative Black White Rares and competitive gameplay. From chase cards like Zekrom ex to investment-worthy Booster Boxes, it’s a must-have for collectors and players. Start your Black Bolt adventure with authentic products from Card Chill and join the Pokémon TCG community today!