Mega Evolution—Pitch Black Set Review & Complete Pokémon TCG Checklist
The Pokémon TCG: Mega Evolution—Pitch Black expansion brings a darker atmosphere to the Mega Evolution era, with powerful Pokémon such as Mega Darkrai ex, Mega Zeraora ex, Mega Chandelure ex, and Mega Excadrill ex taking center stage.
Released on July 17, 2026, Pitch Black contains 120 numbered cards in the English checklist. The first 84 cards form the main portion of the expansion, while cards numbered 85 through 120 make up the higher-rarity section. That structure makes the release especially interesting for collectors who want to build either a numbered collection or a much larger master set.
Mega Evolution—Pitch Black contains 120 numbered cards: 84 cards in the main portion and 36 cards numbered above the printed set number. The expansion also includes Illustration Rares, Ultra Rares, Special Illustration Rares, and one Mega Hyper Rare featuring Mega Darkrai ex.
Pitch Black Set Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Expansion | Mega Evolution—Pitch Black |
| Release Date | July 17, 2026 |
| Set Code | ME05 / PBL |
| Numbered Cards | 120 |
| Main Set | 84 cards |
| Higher-Rarity Cards | 36 cards |
| Special Illustration Rares | 6 |
| Mega Hyper Rare | 1 |
| Featured Pokémon | Mega Darkrai ex, Mega Zeraora ex, Mega Chandelure ex, Mega Excadrill ex |
What Makes Mega Evolution—Pitch Black Different?
Pitch Black has a very clear visual identity. Rather than relying on one familiar mascot alone, the expansion builds its atmosphere around darker Pokémon, nighttime imagery, and a collection of Mega Evolution cards that fit the theme.
Mega Darkrai ex is naturally the centerpiece. However, stopping at Darkrai would overlook much of what makes the expansion interesting. Mega Zeraora ex adds a completely different visual style, while Mega Chandelure ex and Mega Excadrill ex give the collection additional Mega Evolution targets.
The result is an expansion that works on several levels. Someone opening packs may simply want to discover a rare card. A binder collector may be more interested in completing every number. Meanwhile, a master-set builder has additional reverse-holo and premium variants to track.
How Many Cards Are in Pitch Black?
The most useful number to remember is 120 numbered cards.
Cards #001 through #084 belong to the main numbered portion. Cards #085 through #120 continue beyond the printed set number and contain the higher-rarity cards that many collectors will recognize as the major pull targets.
This distinction matters because you may see the expansion described as having 84 cards, more than 115 cards, or 120 cards depending on the source. These descriptions are referring to different counting methods. For a collector building a numbered checklist, 120 is the practical number to use.
Do not stop your checklist at #084/084. Cards numbered above 084 are part of the numbered English card list and are essential if your goal is to complete all 120 entries.
Pitch Black Rarity Structure
| Rarity | Card Numbers | Count |
|---|---|---|
| Common / Uncommon / Rare | #001–084 | 74 |
| Double Rare | Within #001–084 | 10 |
| Illustration Rare | #085–095 | 11 |
| Ultra Rare | #096–113 | 18 |
| Special Illustration Rare | #114–119 | 6 |
| Mega Hyper Rare | #120 | 1 |
The higher-rarity portion is where the visual variety increases significantly. Illustration Rares focus on individual Pokémon artwork, while Ultra Rares introduce premium treatments for Pokémon and Trainer cards. Special Illustration Rares take the artwork another step further, and the final Mega Hyper Rare slot gives the expansion its rarest numbered card.
The Six Mega Evolution Pokémon ex
One interesting detail in Pitch Black is that six Mega Evolution Pokémon ex appear in the numbered expansion.
| Card | Number | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Mega Delphox ex | #008 | Fire |
| Mega Zeraora ex | #027 | Lightning |
| Mega Slowbro ex | #031 | Water |
| Mega Chandelure ex | #038 | Fire |
| Mega Darkrai ex | #048 | Darkness |
| Mega Excadrill ex | #065 | Metal |
Several of these Pokémon also receive premium versions later in the numbered sequence. This is particularly useful when sorting cards because the same Pokémon name can appear multiple times with completely different collector numbers and rarities.
Mega Darkrai ex: The Main Attraction
Mega Darkrai ex appears in three notable forms within the numbered list, including the standard Double Rare, a Special Illustration Rare, and the final Mega Hyper Rare.
The standard version is numbered 048/083, while the premium versions appear later in the checklist. This makes Darkrai one of the easiest Pokémon in the expansion to accidentally misidentify when buying or trading online.
Why the Collector Number Matters
If a listing simply says “Mega Darkrai ex,” that is not enough information to identify the exact card. Always compare the collector number, rarity, artwork, and finish before buying. The difference between the regular card and a premium version can be substantial.
What Should You Track First?
If you are starting a Pitch Black collection, create three separate lists rather than putting everything into one checklist.
- Numbered Cards: Track cards #001–120.
- Variant Cards: Track reverse-holo versions and other finishes separately.
- Personal Favorites: Keep your favorite artwork and Pokémon on a wishlist even if they are not among the rarest cards.
This approach prevents an expensive premium card from making your entire collection feel incomplete. You can finish the regular numbered portion first and then work through the higher-rarity cards at your own pace.
Pitch Black Products to Know
The expansion was released through several familiar Pokémon TCG products, including Booster Display Boxes, Elite Trainer Boxes, Pokémon Center Elite Trainer Boxes, Booster Bundles, and Build & Battle products.
The standard Elite Trainer Box contains nine Pitch Black booster packs and a full-art Zarude promo. The Pokémon Center version contains 11 booster packs and additional promotional material, making it a distinct product for collectors who track sealed releases alongside their cards.
For collectors whose primary goal is the 120-card numbered checklist, sealed products and individual cards serve different purposes. Opening packs creates the excitement of discovery, while purchasing specific singles gives you much more control over the final missing-card list.
Mega Evolution—Pitch Black Complete Checklist: #001–084
The first 84 cards form the main numbered portion of the expansion. For binder collectors, this is the foundation of the collection and the easiest place to begin tracking progress.
Use the table below as a working checklist. The checkbox column can be used as a visual reminder while you organize your binder or card storage.
| # | Card | Rarity | Owned |
|---|---|---|---|
| 001 | Tropius | Common | ☐ |
| 002 | Grubbin | Common | ☐ |
| 003 | Fomantis | Common | ☐ |
| 004 | Lurantis ex | Double Rare | ☐ |
| 005 | Poltchageist | Common | ☐ |
| 006 | Sinistcha | Uncommon | ☐ |
| 007 | Heatran | Rare | ☐ |
| 008 | Mega Delphox ex | Double Rare | ☐ |
| 009 | Sizzlipede | Common | ☐ |
| 010 | Centiskorch | Common | ☐ |
| 011 | Charcadet | Common | ☐ |
| 012 | Armarouge | Rare | ☐ |
| 013 | Goldeen | Common | ☐ |
| 014 | Seaking | Uncommon | ☐ |
| 015 | Wailmer | Common | ☐ |
| 016 | Wailord ex | Double Rare | ☐ |
| 017 | Relicanth | Uncommon | ☐ |
| 018 | Popplio | Common | ☐ |
| 019 | Brionne | Common | ☐ |
| 020 | Primarina | Rare | ☐ |
| 021 | Finizen | Common | ☐ |
| 022 | Palafin | Uncommon | ☐ |
| 023 | Electrike | Common | ☐ |
| 024 | Manectric | Uncommon | ☐ |
| 025 | Charjabug | Common | ☐ |
| 026 | Vikavolt | Uncommon | ☐ |
| 027 | Mega Zeraora ex | Double Rare | ☐ |
| 028 | Miraidon | Rare | ☐ |
| 029 | Slowpoke | Common | ☐ |
| 030 | Slowbro | Uncommon | ☐ |
| 031 | Mega Slowbro ex | Double Rare | ☐ |
| 032 | Jynx | Common | ☐ |
| 033 | Shuppet | Common | ☐ |
| 034 | Banette | Uncommon | ☐ |
| 035 | Spiritomb | Rare | ☐ |
| 036 | Litwick | Common | ☐ |
| 037 | Lampent | Uncommon | ☐ |
| 038 | Mega Chandelure ex | Double Rare | ☐ |
| 039 | Dhelmise | Uncommon | ☐ |
| 040 | Marshadow | Uncommon | ☐ |
| 041 | Annihilape | Uncommon | ☐ |
| 042 | Mankey | Common | ☐ |
| 043 | Primeape | Common | ☐ |
| 044 | Cranidos | Common | ☐ |
| 045 | Rampardos ex | Double Rare | ☐ |
| 046 | Drilbur | Common | ☐ |
| 047 | Koraidon | Rare | ☐ |
| 048 | Mega Darkrai ex | Double Rare | ☐ |
| 049 | Vullaby | Common | ☐ |
| 050 | Mandibuzz | Common | ☐ |
| 051 | Inkay | Common | ☐ |
| 052 | Malamar | Uncommon | ☐ |
| 053 | Nickit | Common | ☐ |
| 054 | Thievul | Uncommon | ☐ |
| 055 | Morpeko ex | Double Rare | ☐ |
| 056 | Zarude | Rare | ☐ |
| 057 | Maschiff | Common | ☐ |
| 058 | Mabosstiff | Common | ☐ |
| 059 | Chi-Yu | Rare | ☐ |
| 060 | Skarmory | Common | ☐ |
| 061 | Shieldon | Common | ☐ |
| 062 | Bastiodon | Rare | ☐ |
| 063 | Bronzor | Common | ☐ |
| 064 | Bronzong | Uncommon | ☐ |
| 065 | Mega Excadrill ex | Double Rare | ☐ |
| 066 | Pikipek | Common | ☐ |
| 067 | Trumbeak | Common | ☐ |
| 068 | Toucannon | Uncommon | ☐ |
| 069 | Type: Null | Common | ☐ |
| 070 | Silvally | Rare | ☐ |
| 071 | Bombirdier | Common | ☐ |
| 072 | Antique Armor Fossil | Common | ☐ |
| 073 | Antique Skull Fossil | Common | ☐ |
| 074 | Backtrack Badge | Uncommon | ☐ |
| 075 | Dark Bell | Uncommon | ☐ |
| 076 | Fossil Quarry | Uncommon | ☐ |
| 077 | Gladion’s Final Battle | Uncommon | ☐ |
| 078 | Gwynn | Uncommon | ☐ |
| 079 | Jett | Uncommon | ☐ |
| 080 | Misty’s Vitality | Uncommon | ☐ |
| 081 | Rust Syndicate Grunt | Uncommon | ☐ |
| 082 | Tremendous Bomb | Uncommon | ☐ |
| 083 | Shadowy Darkness Energy | Rare | ☐ |
| 084 | Voltaic Lightning Energy | Rare | ☐ |
Which Main-Set Cards Stand Out?
The main portion is not simply filler between the premium cards. Several Pokémon receive Double Rare treatment, giving the first 84 numbers a useful backbone for collectors.
Mega Darkrai ex #048 is naturally one of the most recognizable cards because the Pokémon also appears in premium rarities later in the checklist. Mega Zeraora ex #027, Mega Chandelure ex #038, Mega Excadrill ex #065, Mega Delphox ex #008, and Mega Slowbro ex #031 create a broad Mega Evolution lineup across several types.
Reverse-Holo Cards: The Part Collectors Often Miss
Pitch Black includes reverse-holo versions for its Common, Uncommon and Rare cards. That means the number of physical cards required for a full master collection is considerably larger than the 120 numbered entries alone.
This is one of the most common sources of confusion when collectors compare completion percentages. One person may consider the collection complete after obtaining all 120 numbered cards, while another may continue until every eligible reverse-holo has also been added.
For that reason, decide what “complete” means before you start spending money on the final missing cards.
Three Ways to Build a Pitch Black Collection
- Numbered Collection: One copy of every card from #001 through #120.
- Master Collection: Numbered cards plus eligible reverse-holo variants and other versions you personally choose to track.
- Artwork Collection: Only the cards you genuinely enjoy, with no requirement to own every number.
There is no requirement that a collection has to follow one definition. The most important thing is keeping your checklist consistent so you always know which cards are actually missing.
Pitch Black Secret Rare Checklist: #085–120
The final 36 numbered cards are where the premium portion of the expansion begins. This section includes Illustration Rares, Ultra Rares, Special Illustration Rares, and the single Mega Hyper Rare.
| # | Card | Rarity | Owned |
|---|---|---|---|
| 085 | Fomantis | Illustration Rare | ☐ |
| 086 | Armarouge | Illustration Rare | ☐ |
| 087 | Goldeen | Illustration Rare | ☐ |
| 088 | Primarina | Illustration Rare | ☐ |
| 089 | Manectric | Illustration Rare | ☐ |
| 090 | Slowbro | Illustration Rare | ☐ |
| 091 | Dhelmise | Illustration Rare | ☐ |
| 092 | Thievul | Illustration Rare | ☐ |
| 093 | Bastiodon | Illustration Rare | ☐ |
| 094 | Toucannon | Illustration Rare | ☐ |
| 095 | Silvally | Illustration Rare | ☐ |
| 096 | Lurantis ex | Ultra Rare | ☐ |
| 097 | Wailord ex | Ultra Rare | ☐ |
| 098 | Mega Zeraora ex | Ultra Rare | ☐ |
| 099 | Mega Chandelure ex | Ultra Rare | ☐ |
| 100 | Rampardos ex | Ultra Rare | ☐ |
| 101 | Mega Darkrai ex | Ultra Rare | ☐ |
| 102 | Morpeko ex | Ultra Rare | ☐ |
| 103 | Mega Excadrill ex | Ultra Rare | ☐ |
| 104 | Brave Bangle | Ultra Rare | ☐ |
| 105 | Crushing Hammer | Ultra Rare | ☐ |
| 106 | Dark Bell | Ultra Rare | ☐ |
| 107 | Energy Switch | Ultra Rare | ☐ |
| 108 | Gladion’s Final Battle | Ultra Rare | ☐ |
| 109 | Gwynn | Ultra Rare | ☐ |
| 110 | Iron Defender | Ultra Rare | ☐ |
| 111 | Misty’s Vitality | Ultra Rare | ☐ |
| 112 | Rust Syndicate Grunt | Ultra Rare | ☐ |
| 113 | Tremendous Bomb | Ultra Rare | ☐ |
| 114 | Mega Zeraora ex | Special Illustration Rare | ☐ |
| 115 | Mega Chandelure ex | Special Illustration Rare | ☐ |
| 116 | Mega Darkrai ex | Special Illustration Rare | ☐ |
| 117 | Morpeko ex | Special Illustration Rare | ☐ |
| 118 | Gladion’s Final Battle | Special Illustration Rare | ☐ |
| 119 | Gwynn | Special Illustration Rare | ☐ |
| 120 | Mega Darkrai ex | Mega Hyper Rare | ☐ |
Pitch Black Chase Cards to Watch
Although every collector has different priorities, several cards naturally attract attention because of their Pokémon, artwork, rarity, or position in the checklist.
| Card | Number | Rarity | Why It Stands Out |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mega Darkrai ex | #116 | Special Illustration Rare | The signature premium Darkrai artwork |
| Mega Darkrai ex | #120 | Mega Hyper Rare | Final numbered card and only MHR |
| Morpeko ex | #117 | Special Illustration Rare | Distinctive character-focused artwork |
| Mega Zeraora ex | #114 | Special Illustration Rare | Major Mega Evolution highlight |
| Mega Chandelure ex | #115 | Special Illustration Rare | Strong visual identity and premium treatment |
| Gwynn | #119 | Special Illustration Rare | Trainer-focused premium artwork |
The rarest card is not automatically the card with the highest collector demand. Pitch Black is a good example of why rarity, artwork, character popularity, and actual buyer interest should be considered separately.
Mega Darkrai ex #116 vs. #120
These two cards deserve special attention because they share the same Pokémon name but occupy completely different places in the checklist.
#116 is the Special Illustration Rare, while #120 is the Mega Hyper Rare. If you are searching marketplaces or trading with another collector, always specify the exact number.
This is particularly important when sellers use shortened titles such as “Mega Darkrai ex Pitch Black.” A card title alone does not tell you which printing you are buying.
How to Build a Pitch Black Master Set
Completing the 120 numbered cards is only the first stage if you want a true master collection.
Step 1: Finish #001–084
Start by organizing the main cards in numerical order. Keep duplicates in a separate box instead of mixing them into the binder. This makes it much easier to see exactly which numbers are missing.
Step 2: Add Reverse Holos
Once the numbered run is complete, check which Common, Uncommon and Rare cards have reverse-holo versions. Create a second checklist for these rather than placing two copies of the same number beside each other without labeling them.
Step 3: Complete #085–120
The premium section should be handled separately because the cost difference between individual cards can be much larger than in the main portion.
Step 4: Track Promos Separately
Product-exclusive promos should not automatically be mixed into the 120-card numbered checklist. Keep a dedicated promo section so that your progress remains easy to understand.
Opening Packs or Buying Singles?
There is no single method that works for every collector.
Opening sealed packs is part of the experience and can quickly add many lower-numbered cards to your binder. However, duplicate cards become increasingly common as your collection gets closer to completion.
Singles become more practical when only a small number of cards remain missing. Instead of buying multiple products hoping to find one particular Illustration Rare or Special Illustration Rare, you can target the exact collector number you need.
Open packs while you still need a large portion of the main checklist. Once your binder is mostly complete, compare the cost of more packs with the price of the exact singles that remain.
Is Pitch Black Good for Binder Collectors?
Pitch Black has several characteristics that make it appealing as a binder project. The numbered list is large enough to feel substantial without becoming impossible to organize, while the premium section adds a clear second stage for collectors who want to go beyond the basic run.
The expansion also gives collectors multiple visual themes to work with. Mega Pokémon provide the obvious centerpiece, while Illustration Rares and Trainer cards add variety between the larger character cards.
For a personal binder, you do not necessarily need every expensive card. A carefully selected collection built around favorite Pokémon can look more cohesive than a binder assembled solely around rarity.
Common Pitch Black Checklist Mistakes
- Stopping at #084: The numbered checklist continues to #120.
- Ignoring reverse holos: They matter if your goal is a master collection.
- Confusing duplicate names: Mega Darkrai ex appears in multiple rarities.
- Using only Pokémon names when buying online: Always verify the collector number.
- Mixing promos with numbered cards: Keep product-exclusive cards in a separate section.
- Buying packs after most of the checklist is complete: At that point, targeted singles may be more efficient.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many cards are in Pokémon TCG Mega Evolution—Pitch Black?
The English numbered checklist contains 120 cards, with 84 cards in the main portion and 36 cards numbered above the printed set number.
When was Mega Evolution—Pitch Black released?
Mega Evolution—Pitch Black was released on July 17, 2026.
What is the rarest card in Pitch Black?
Mega Darkrai ex #120 is the expansion’s only Mega Hyper Rare and occupies the final number in the checklist.
What is the main chase card in Pitch Black?
Mega Darkrai ex #116 is one of the major premium cards to watch because it combines the popularity of Darkrai with a Special Illustration Rare treatment. The #120 Mega Hyper Rare version is also a major target because of its rarity and position as the final numbered card.
Does Pitch Black have reverse-holo cards?
Yes. Eligible Common, Uncommon and Rare cards from the main portion have reverse-holo versions. The Double Rare and higher-rarity cards are tracked separately.
Should I complete the 120-card list or a master set?
That depends entirely on your collection goal. The 120-card numbered list is a straightforward target, while a master collection requires additional variants and can take considerably longer to finish.
Final Thoughts
Mega Evolution—Pitch Black is more than a checklist of 120 numbers. It combines a strong Mega Evolution lineup with Illustration Rares, premium Trainer cards, six Special Illustration Rares, and a final Mega Hyper Rare featuring Mega Darkrai ex.
For new collectors, the easiest starting point is the numbered 001–120 checklist. Once that is complete, reverse-holo cards, promos, and other variants can be added according to your own definition of a master collection.
Whether you are chasing Mega Darkrai ex, building a complete binder, or simply collecting the artwork you enjoy most, keeping the collector numbers organized will save time and prevent expensive mistakes.
Bookmark this checklist and use it as your Pitch Black collection tracker as your binder grows.
