The Pokémon Card Game in Japan is experiencing a period of great excitement thanks to the Munikis Zero (M3) expansion, launched in January 2026, which has redefined competitive strategies with the introduction of Mega Zygarde ex as a key card.
This main set kicked off the year with an exclusive focus on Mega Evolution mechanics, drawing thousands of players to local tournaments and causing prices of rare pulls to skyrocket on secondary marketplaces.
Expansion Details
Munikis Zero features over 100 cards, including new TERASTAL and Mega forms that integrate perfectly with Standard and Expanded formats.
The absolute star is Mega Zygarde ex, a VSTAR with field-control abilities that block opponent attacks and accumulate energy quickly, making it a staple in top-tier decks. Released simultaneously was the Special Card Set: Mega Gallade ex (January 23), a limited product with 5 exclusive promos, 8 Munikis Zero boosters, and a collectible metal coin—already sold out at major retailers like Pokémon Center Tokyo.
April remains relatively quiet, with fans stocking up ahead of Ninja Spinner (expected late March/early April), which will introduce Mega Greninja ex and ninja-themed mechanics. This set promises to expand the meta with fast, disruptive cards perfect for the spring competitive circuit.
Market Impact
A crucial topic dominating discussions is the announced booster pack price increase: starting May 2026, each 5-card pack will rise from 180 to 200 yen, with 30-pack boxes jumping from 5,400 to 6,000 yen.
This hike, driven by inflation and production costs, is pushing collectors to snap up current products like MEGA Premium Trainer Boxes (with 20 boosters from previous sets) and Mega-Meganium ex sets launching April 24.
Japanese-exclusive promos, like those featuring Pikachu and iconic trainer artwork, represent the pinnacle of local collecting and are fueling hype for the TCG’s 30th anniversary.
In a historic 2026 for the franchise, Japan continues to set the global pace: these releases shape Western metas 3-6 months in advance, making Munikis Zero essential for players and investors. With Chaos Rising on the horizon (May 22), summer looks explosive.
