Japanese MEGA series: from M1 to M6, the complete guide

The MEGA series is the Japanese Pokémon TCG cycle launched on 1 August 2025 with Mega Brave (M1L) and Mega Symphonia (M1S), and it has now reached Storm Emeralda (M6). Each Japanese set is released several weeks before its French version in the Mega Evolution block. Here is the complete overview, set by set, with what makes each one stand out.

Overview of the sets

Added to this list is the special set 30th Celebration (M6a), released in September 2026 for the game's 30th anniversary, which you will find in the 30th anniversary collection.

M1L and M1S: the opening duo

True to a Japanese tradition, the series kicks off with two twin sets released on the same day. Mega Brave showcases Mega Lucario ex, along with Mega Venusaur ex and Mega Absol ex. Mega Symphonia answers with Mega Gardevoir ex, Mega Kangaskhan ex and Mega Latias ex. In France, the two were merged into a single set, ME01.

For a collector, it is a chance to line up the two boxes side by side, something the French version doesn't allow.

M2 and M2a: Charizard and a "high class" set

Inferno X is the Mega Charizard X ex set, surrounded by Mega Heracross ex, Mega Sharpedo ex, Mega Empoleon ex and Mega Lopunny ex. Its list is compact: 80 main cards and 18 secrets.

MEGA Dream ex is a different beast. It is a 250-card "high class" set that mixes reprints of recent cards with a new illustration style for the Mega ex. This type of set, designed primarily for collecting, lets you gather many Mega ex in a single box.

M3 to M5: the heart of the series

• Munikis Zero (M3): a set built around Mega Zygarde ex, with Mega Clefable ex, Mega Starmie ex and Mega Skarmory ex. You will also see it transcribed as "Nihil Zero".
• Ninja Spinner (M4): Mega Greninja ex takes centre stage, accompanied by Mega Pyroar ex, Mega Floette ex and Mega Dragalge ex.
• Abyss Eye (M5): the Mega Darkrai ex and Mega Zeraora ex set, the first to draw on the Pokémon Legends: Z-A DLC. It became Pitch Black in French.

M6 Storm Emeralda: the latest release

Released on 31 July 2026, Storm Emeralda marks the return of Mega Rayquaza ex, with Mega Samurott ex, Mega Golurk ex and Mega Malamar ex. It also introduces two-card Legendary Stadiums. All the details are in our Storm Emeralda guide.

Why collect the series in Japanese?

• Getting there first: each set comes out in Japan weeks, or even months, before its French version.
• The format: main sets are sold in boxes of 30 packs of 5 cards, more compact than French booster displays.
• Exclusive sets: some sets, such as MEGA Dream ex, have no strict equivalent outside Japan, as the international version is reworked.
• The finish: many collectors appreciate the printing and presentation of Japanese cards.

To weigh up the pros and cons, read our guide Japanese or French booster box. The available sets are gathered in the Japanese Pokémon catalogue: add them to your request list and we will confirm availability.

FAQ

What do the letters L, S and a in the codes mean?

M1L and M1S refer to the two twin sets of the first instalment. The "a" in M2a or M6a indicates a special set published between two main sets.

Can Japanese cards be played in France?

They are primarily intended for collecting. For official tournament play in France, French cards or other international languages are used.

Which Japanese set should I start with?

It all depends on your favourite Pokémon: Inferno X for Charizard, Abyss Eye for Darkrai, Storm Emeralda for Rayquaza. MEGA Dream ex, for its part, offers a broad overview of the Mega ex.

How can I find out whether a Japanese set is available at Rarix?

Add it to your request list or contact us: we will get back to you quickly.