Mega Evolution Ascended Heroes Arrives January 30
A New Era for Players & Collectors
The Pokémon TCG is kicking off 2026 in a big way. Mega Evolution: Ascended Heroes officially launches on January 30, and it’s shaping up to be one of the most impactful special sets the game has seen in years.
At Progress CCG, we look at every release through two lenses: how it changes the competitive landscape and how it excites collectors. Ascended Heroes delivers on both fronts bringing Mega Evolution back into the spotlight with powerful new cards, stunning artwork, and a release structure that keeps the chase alive all year.
What Is Ascended Heroes?
Ascended Heroes is a special expansion, meaning you won’t find traditional booster boxes. Instead, packs are available through curated products like collections, Elite Trainer Boxes, and booster bundles released in waves.
The first wave releases January 30 with Tech-Sticker Collections featuring Trainers Erika and Larry. Followed up by Tech-Sticker Collections featuring Charmander and Gastly.
The second wave releases February 20 with Ascended Heroes Elite Trainer Boxes and Assorted Mini Tins.
The third wave releases March 20 with the First Partners Pin Collection along with Premium Poster Collections featuring Mega Lucario ex and Mega Gardevoir ex.
The fourth and final wave releases April 24 with Booster Bundles and the Mega Meganium ex Box, Mega Emboar ex Box, and Mega Feraligatr ex Box.
This set celebrates the return of Mega Evolution with modern design, updated balance, and high-impact card mechanics built for today’s meta while still tapping into the nostalgia longtime fans love.
Why Competitive Players Should Pay Attention
Mega Evolution Pokémon ex are expected to be game-defining. These cards are designed to hit hard, reward strategic setup, and punish misplays exactly the kind of high-risk, high-reward gameplay competitive players thrive on.
Key reasons this set matters competitively:
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Mega Evolution Pokémon ex introduce massive damage potential and unique board control options
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New Trainer cards are expected to support faster setups and deeper combo play
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The set’s size means meta diversity, with multiple archetypes likely to emerge
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Strong synergy with existing ex engines gives deck builders room to innovate
Ascended Heroes isn’t just about raw power it’s about decision-making. Expect tournaments and league play to evolve quickly as players learn how to manage Mega Evolutions efficiently.
A Collector’s Dream Set
For collectors, Ascended Heroes is stacked.
With 290+ cards, premium rarities, and showcase artwork, this set is built for long-term desirability. Mega Evolution Pokémon have always been fan favorites, and their return comes with some of the most visually striking designs we’ve seen in years.
Collectors can look forward to:
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Illustration Rares & Special Illustration Rares featuring cinematic, full-art designs
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Brand-new high-end chase cards centered around iconic Mega Evolutions featuring cards like Mega Dragonite ex and Mega Gengar ex
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Trainer-focused Pokémon cards that blend character storytelling with collectibility
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A staggered product release that keeps sealed product relevant over time
Whether you’re chasing singles, grading pulls, or holding sealed product, Ascended Heroes checks every box.
Product Release Timeline
Ascended Heroes will roll out across several waves:
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January 30 – Initial collection products launch
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February – Elite Trainer Boxes and additional collections
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Spring 2026 – Premium bundles and booster-focused products
This phased release means multiple entry points for both players and collectors and plenty of opportunities to stay engaged with the set.
Mega Evolution: Ascended Heroes isn’t just another Pokémon TCG release it’s a statement. The return of Mega Evolution brings fresh competitive depth, while the scale and presentation of the set make it a standout for collectors.
If you’re looking to build powerful new decks, chase iconic Mega cards, or simply be part of the next major chapter in the Pokémon TCG, January 30 is a date to circle.
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