Pokémon Delta Reign is almost here, and the Mega Rayquaza-led set is a smaller one again — similar to Perfect Order, Pitch Black, and other recent standard sets. We, as collectors, have grown accustomed to lighter Pokémon TCG expansions, and so there are fewer chase cards than normal to pull.
So, if you’re keen to get the latest Pokémon TCG set, you should expect a smaller master set to complete. Personally, I think that’s a good thing—fewer packs or singles to buy, hopefully. Admittedly, that hasn’t stopped equally small Pokémon sets in recent memory from being hard to buy.
Before we get into the Pokémon Delta Reign chase cards, it’s worth discussing some cards you may expect that won’t appear here. One, the Kyogre IR I adore is an ETB promo, and two, the Mega Rayquaza ex Ultra Rare is a promo for the upcoming Mega Rayquaza ex Tournament Premium Collection.
Oh, and as always, this is based on personal opinion mixed in with some value-based evidence from the Japanese “Storm Emerelda” expansion. With those out of the way, let’s get into the Pokémon Delta Reign chase cards.
6. Eevee #114
The only Illustration Rare on this list, and an excellent one at that, Eevee #114 is adorable because it’s simple. It has the familiar smile of an Eevee while sitting in a bag next to the map, compass, and food of a budding explorer. It captures the spirit of Pokémon: exploration and cute partners in one vibrant piece of artwork.
5. Mega Golisopod ex #135
Our first SIR, Mega Golisopod ex is strikingly different from my first pick, showing the large final evolution performing a striking attack that comes right towards the collector. What makes it so collectible is the action of the scene, depicting the sharp claws in a violent way that—in another franchise—would be horrific.
4. Mega Golurk ex #137
If Golurk were a more popular Pokémon, this would be an essential chase. Mega Golurk ex #137 sees the artificial ‘mon towering in the midst of ancient debris, with its arm bracelets, chest piece, and shoulders flaming with power. It fits the Pokémon’s background while giving us a clear look at its potential, offering a gorgeous piece of art that deserves a spot as one of the set’s top SIRs.
3. Raikou ex #136
I’ve already said a lot about the Raikou SIR in a previous article, but if it weren’t for a more elusive card and a major SIR in the set, this would be the top choice. It feels classic in the best ways, showing the Electric-type Legendary Beast jumping from rocky pillar to rocky pillar, with lightning trailing behind. It feels ripped out of a DS booklet, and for that, I can’t wait to add it to my collection.
2. Mega Rayquaza ex #141 (MHR)
Of course, the Mega Hyper Rare of Mega Rayquaza ex had to be the penultimate chase, mainly due to its rarity above all else. The all-gold card clearly shows the Dragon-type’s head, but admittedly, it does look cool — it looks like an ancient drawing or an archaeologist’s depiction of a beastly ‘mon. I’m not big on the Mega Hyper Rare cards of the Mega Evolution sets, but this might be my favourite.
1. Mega Rayquaza ex #138 (SIR)
What else would be at the top of my list but the Mega Rayquaza ex SIR from the set it mascots? In a sheer display of its raw power, Kazuki Minami’s illustration captures the awe of witnessing the emerald dragon bursting to life, with an almost-grin on its face as it unleashes a fiery roar. With the textured layer, it’s a sight to behold, and an excellent chase to top off our Delta Reign list.
Where to buy Pokémon Delta Reign?
If you’re hoping to get some Pokémon Delta Reign packs, here’s where to keep bookmarked:
- Chaos Cards (UK) — invite system with the new Drops feature
- Magic Madhouse (UK) — one of the most popular TCG retailers in the UK
- Walmart (US) — usually has a lot of stock and notifies customers prior to stock release
- Target (US) - sometimes has online stock
- Best Buy (US) — same as Walmart, with lots of stock and customer notifications
- Amazon (global) — the UK has an invite system, while the US has retail-priced and third-party listings
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