9 Black Bolt & White Flare Pokémon cards that prove it’s the TCG’s prettiest set

Loads of Japanese Pokémon cards have been revealed for Black Bolt and White Flare, and though we only know what they do thanks to the hard work of speedy translators, beauty transcends language: we can still look at the pretty pictures.

There is a ton of fantastic artwork in the newest Pokémon set, the next release after Destined Rivals. That’s because The Pokémon Company has decided to give every Pokémon from Generation V an original full art SIR or IR card – all 156 of them! That’s on top of full art trainers, and other special cards from the set.

Here you’ll see some of the most beautiful cards in what may well go down in history as the most beautiful Pokémon TCG set ever. We’re not looking for the biggest rare Pokémon cards from the set or trying to ascertain what cards will have the highest value on the secondary market, we’re just looking at the art.

Obviously, this list is going to be pretty subjective. You can let us know your own picks for the coolest cards from the set or lambast me for my choices over at the Wargamer Discord server.

Seismitoad

The central Seismitoad has a great pose and expression, and I love how shiny he looks. But the explosive background steals the show here – it’s a riot of colors and patterns.

Tynamo

I love the focused color pallet here and the way it draws the eye to the tiny central Tynamo. The Pokémon looks adorable and the rounded shapes in the background are pleasing to the eye. Does this feel like a Mario water level to anyone else?

Hydreigon

This super impressive SAR makes Hydreigon look like an absolute force of nature. The stark rock, lashing rain, and sky-splitting lightning all scream how beastly this thing is.

Trubbish

I’ll admit, I’m pretty biased towards Trubbish. He’s one of the cutest Pokémon of all time and unaccountably received a lot of hate upon release, so I see him as a loveable underdog. Maybe that’s why it feels so good to see him find success, climbing to the top of a rubbish heap to locate this… little glass jar?

Audino

If we’re awarding points for originality, this crochet Pokémon card has to be on the list. As you can see, it is, so we must be.

Whirlipede

Everything about the way this card is drawn, from the sketchy lines to the blurred background conveys speed.

Haxorus

I don’t think I’ve ever seen a Pokémon card that looks more like it is about to murder someone than this.

Conkeldurr

This card is gorgeous, with the neon colors and thick black lines really making everything pop. I like the angle of the piece looking up at Cokeldurr and the towering blue and green skyscrapers above.

Gothitelle

The lack of color in this piece makes the stars and moon, and perfectly central Gothitelle stand out really nicely. It’s simple, but effective.

For more great stories, check out our guides to the most best Pokémon cards and all Legendary Pokémon.