Pokémon TCG: Mega Evolution review – pull rates, top cards, and strategies revealed

Mega Evolution Pokémon are back in a brand new era for Pokémon TCG post-Scarlet and Violet. The era is kicking off with Mega Lucario, Mega Gardevoir, Mega Venusaur, Mega Absol, and more. This return is significant as it marks the revival of the X and Y era from 2014. The best gimmick in Pokémon’s history is making a triumphant return with Mega Evolutions, offering new and returning Mega EX cards.

What’s new in Mega Evolutions?
The mechanics of Mega Evolution have changed significantly, requiring players to follow the evolution line of their Pokémon. Mega ex Pokémon now come with higher stakes, as if knocked out, the opponent takes three prize cards. The gameplay has been streamlined with new strategies and item cards like Rare Candy.

My favorite deck strategies
Mega Evolutions focus on using standard Pokémon to strengthen Mega ex-focused decks. A popular deck idea is the Mega Venusaur ex build, utilizing cards like Meganium, Shuckle, and Celebi. Trainer cards such as Energy Switch and Mega Signal are recommended for this deck. Forest of Vitality stadium card is also helpful for evolving Bulbasaur on the first turn.

To purchase these cards, look for:
– Mega Venusaur ex 003/132
– Ivysaur 002/132
– Bulbasaur 002/132
– Meganium 010/132
– Bayleef 009/132
– Chikorita 008/132
– Shuckle 011/132
– Celebi 012/132
– Forest of Vitality 117/132
– Wally’s Compassion 132/132
– Mega Signal 121/132
– Energy Switch 115/132
– Boss’s Orders 114/132
– Acerola’s Mischief 113/132

Pokémon Card List

Ivysaur 002/132 — Common / Reverse Holo / Illustration Rare

Bulbasaur 002/132 — Common / Reverse Holo / Illustration Rare / Illustration Rare (Stamped)

Meganium 010/132 — Holo / Reverse Holo

Bayleef 009/132 — Common / Reverse Holo

Chikorita 008/132 — Common / Reverse Holo

Shuckle 011/132 — Common / Reverse Holo / Illustration Rare

Celebi 012/132 — Common / Reverse Holo

Forest of Vitality 117/132 — Uncommon / Reverse Holo

Wally’s Compassion 132/132 — Uncommon / Reverse Holo / Ultra Rare / Special Illustration Rare

Mega Signal 121/132 — Uncommon / Reverse Holo / Ultra Rare

Energy Switch 115/132 — Common / Reverse Holo

Boss’s Orders 114/132 — Uncommon / Reverse Holo

Acerola’s Mischief 113/132 — Uncommon / Reverse Holo / Ultra Rare / Special Illustration Rare

Mega Lucario EX Build

It’s great to have Mega Lucario EX back, with a quick stage one evolution card dealing 130 damage for one fighting energy with Aura Jab, which also allows recycling of three basic fighting energy cards from the discard pile. Lunatone’s Lunar Cycle ability and Solrock play a key role in this setup.

Various buffs like Garganacl’s Powerfull a-Salt and Premium Power Pro can enhance Mega Lucario’s damage output significantly. Items like Fighting Gong and basic Pokémon like Stonjourner play crucial roles in a fighting-themed deck.

Purchase Information

Various essential cards, including Mega Lucario ex, Riolu, Stonjourner, Lunatone, Solrock, Garganacl, Naclstack, Nacli, Fighting Gong, Premium Power Pro, Wally’s Compassion, Mega Signal, Energy Switch, Boss’s Orders, and Acerola’s Mischief, can be purchased to build a powerful deck.

Pull Rates for Mega Evolution

The pull rates for Mega Evolution based on opening 55 booster packs are as follows:

• Double Rares (ex): 21.8% or 1 in 4.6 packs

• Ultra Rares: 10.9% or 1 in 9.2 packs

• Illustration Rares: 10.9% or 1 in 9.2 packs

• Special Illustration Rares and Holo Rares: At least 1 in over 55 packs

Best Cards from Mega Evolution

Some of the best cards pulled from Mega Evolution include Mega Lucario ex 160/132, Mega Absol ex 161/132, Mega Manectric ex 158/132, Bulbasaur 133/132 (Stamped), Shedninja 144/132, Ninjask 137/132, Gumshoos 153/132, and Steelix 150/132.

Should you get Pokémon TCG: Mega Evolution?

Yes. It’s a strong start to the new Mega Evolution era of Pokémon TCG with great artwork and multiple deckbuilding paths. If you can find sealed product or single cards for the right price, this is something to get on the hype train early for.