Pokémon TCG Pocket: Spring 2026 “Pulsing Aura” Update

The Polygon coverage of the Spring 2026 update for Pokémon TCG Pocket highlights a massive shift toward Fighting-type dominance and a celebration of the game’s 1.5-year anniversary. As of May 3, 2026, the new expansion, Pulsing Aura, has officially launched, bringing high-stakes combat mechanics and shiny new cosmetic tiers to the mobile app.

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1. The “Pulsing Aura” Expansion (B3 Set)

Launched on April 27, 2026, this set centers on “Training and Combat Readiness,” introducing several heavy hitters that punish EX-heavy decks.

• Mega Lucario EX (The Anchor): The star of the set. It boasts 190 HP and an attack that scales based on attached Energy, specifically designed to one-shot common Water and Colorless threats.

• Mega Sceptile EX: A bulky 210 HP Grass-type that adds a “Poison” status effect to its high-damage output, forcing opponents to burn items or retreat.

• Vaporeon EX (Support): A tactical game-changer. Its Frozen Flow ability mimics the popular “Sabrina” Supporter card, allowing you to force your opponent to switch their Active Pokémon once per turn.

• Rapid & Single Strike Urshifu: Bringing the “Strike” styles from the mainline TCG, these cards offer flexible Water or Darkness-type attacks depending on which form you evolve into.

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2. New Mechanics: Gold Frames & Flairs

The update introduced a long-requested feature for collectors: Gold Frame Flairs.

• The “Duplicate” Unlock: You can now automatically unlock a gold frame for cards of 1 to 3-diamond rarity if you own at least 10 duplicates of that card.

• Retroactive System: This applies to your existing collection, meaning if you’ve been hoarding cards since the 2024 launch, you likely have several “Gold” cards waiting to be claimed in the Obtain Flair menu.

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3. May 2026 Event Calendar

The “Spring Update” isn’t just about cards; it’s a marathon of limited-time missions.

Event Name	Date Range (2026)	Key Rewards
Special Event 2026	April 29 – May 16	Mega Zygarde EX, Promo Cards
Pulsing Aura Emblem	May 3 – May 13	Profile Emblems, Shop Tickets
Community Week	May 9 – May 16	Trade Hourglasses, Accessories
Mega Heracross EX Drop	May 12 – May 29	B Series Vol. 8 Promo Packs
Elite Deck Gift Missions	Ongoing – July 29	Mega Charizard Y EX, Moltres EX

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4. Meta Shift: Fighting the “EX Meta”

New Trainer and Stadium cards are specifically designed to curb the power of EX cards:

• Korrina (Supporter): Adds +30 damage to Fighting-type attacks against EX Pokémon.

• Arena of Antiquity (Stadium): Provides a constant +20 damage boost for Fighting Pokémon against EX targets.

• Field Blower (Item): Allows you to discard your opponent’s Stadium or a Pokémon’s attached Tool—essential for removing pesky “Float Stones.”