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Delta Reign (ME06): release date, Mega Rayquaza ex in the Pokémon expansion
Apr
On 6 November 2026, the Mega Evolution series welcomes its sixth expansion, Delta Reign. Here is what we already know, and how to get ready as a collector.
After several expansions built around the return of Mega Evolutions, The Pokémon Company is closing the year in style with Mega Evolution – Delta Reign. A long-awaited legendary dragon, a brand-new mechanic and a generous list of rarities make this release one of the big events of the autumn for players and collectors alike.
Delta Reign at a glance
- In-store release: 6 November 2026, at participating retailers worldwide.
- Digital version: available from 5 November 2026 on Pokémon TCG Live.
- Prereleases: from 24 October 2026, at independent stores taking part in the Play! Pokémon program.
- Set code: ME06, the sixth expansion in the Mega Evolution series.
- Headliner: Mega Rayquaza ex.
Mega Rayquaza ex: the return of an icon
Mega Rayquaza had not been printed in the TCG since the XY – Ancient Origins expansion. Its comeback as an ex card naturally makes it the star of Delta Reign, and its rarest versions should be among the most sought-after cards at the end of the year.
It is not alone: three other Mega Evolution Pokémon ex round out the line-up.
- Mega Golurk ex, the Ground and Ghost-type colossus.
- Mega Malamar ex, the manipulative Dark and Psychic-type squid.
- Mega Samurott ex, the Water-type warrior.
What’s new: Legendary Stadiums
Delta Reign introduces Legendary Stadium cards. The idea: two Stadium cards placed side by side form one large illustration and count as a single card in play. It’s a concept that recalls the LEGEND cards of the HeartGold SoulSilver era, and it should appeal to players and artwork fans alike.
Good news for pack opening: a booster that contains a Legendary Stadium includes both cards needed to complete it.
Rarities to watch
Here is the announced breakdown of special cards in the expansion:
- 4 Mega Evolution Pokémon ex
- 6 Pokémon ex
- 6 Stadium cards, forming 3 Legendary Stadiums
- 14 Illustration Rare Pokémon
- 17 Ultra Rare Pokémon and Trainer cards
- 6 Special Illustration Rare Pokémon or Supporter cards
Grading your Delta Reign cards: our tips
Special Illustration Rares and the rarest versions of Mega Rayquaza ex will be the best candidates for grading. As soon as you open them, slide them into a sleeve and then a toploader, and check the centering, corners and surface: a flawless card straight out of the pack has every chance of earning a high grade.
For Legendary Stadiums, each half is a card in its own right and therefore receives its own grade. Send both cards in the same order: they will be processed together and you will get back a complete pair, ready to be displayed side by side.
Pre-orders: watch out for fake shops
Every big release attracts fake online stores offering cut-price pre-orders before vanishing with the money. Buy from well-known shops, and remember that a price far below the market rate is almost always a red flag. See you on 6 November, and until then, get your sleeves ready!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which cards headline Delta Reign, and what is new in the set?
Mega Rayquaza ex is the star. It is the first Mega Rayquaza printed in the TCG since XY – Ancient Origins. Three other Mega Evolution ex join it: Mega Golurk ex, Mega Malamar ex and Mega Samurott ex. The new mechanic is the Legendary Stadium: two Stadium cards placed side by side form one large illustration and count as a single card in play. A booster that contains one includes both halves.
Which Delta Reign cards are worth grading, and how do I avoid pre-order scams?
The Special Illustration Rares and the rarest Mega Rayquaza ex versions are the best grading candidates. Sleeve and toploader them straight from the pack, then check centering, corners and surface. Each half of a Legendary Stadium is graded as its own card, so send both together to get back a matching pair. Big releases attract fake shops, so buy from well-known retailers and treat prices far below market as a red flag.
