Pokémon is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2026, marking three decades since Pokémon Red and Green first launched in Japan and introduced the world to one of the biggest entertainment franchises in history. While the original Gen 1 games deserve plenty of recognition, every era has left its mark on the franchise, with Gen 3’s Hoenn region being one of the most beloved among longtime fans.
First introduced in Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire, Hoenn brought players an entirely new region filled with unique locations, challenging Gym Leaders, and iconic new Pokémon. From the starter trio of Treecko, Torchic, and Mudkip to legendary creatures like Groudon, Kyogre, and Rayquaza, Gen 3 introduced some truly original and beloved Mon. Pokémon Emerald further cemented Hoenn as a fan-favorite, while Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire eventually brought the region to a completely new group of players on the 3DS.
Now, more than two decades after Hoenn’s original debut, Pokémon is officially returning to its Gen 3 roots on November 6, with a new release that should be especially exciting for longtime fans.
Pokémon is officially returning to Hoenn on November 6, bringing back some of Generation 3’s most iconic Legendaries as part of the franchise’s ongoing 30th anniversary celebrations. The upcoming Pokémon TCG: Mega Evolution – Delta Reign expansion will feature several familiar faces, including Kyogre, Groudon, and Rayquaza, giving longtime fans another opportunity to revisit one of the series’ most beloved eras.
Kyogre and Groudon are obviously very significant to Hoenn’s history, having served as the legendary faces of Sapphire and Ruby, respectively. Both will receive special promo cards alongside the Gen 4 Legendary Giratina, with all three featuring the exclusive Pokémon 30 “What’s Your Favorite?” anniversary stamp.
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Custom image made by Jessica Barthelt.</figure>
Beginning November 6, fans who spend $15 or more on Pokémon TCG products at participating retailers will receive a promotional card, depending on where they shop. In the US, Kyogre will be available at Hot Topic, Barnes & Noble, Five Below, and Macy’s, while Groudon will be exclusive to GameStop and Giratina to Best Buy. The promotion will also be available at select retailers in Canada and Australia, with cards offered both online and in-store while supplies last.
The larger Delta Reign expansion also marks the highly anticipated return of Mega Rayquaza ex, appearing in the TCG for the first time since 2015’s XY—Ancient Origins expansion. Rayquaza is joined by Mega Golurk ex, Mega Malamar ex, and Mega Golisopod ex, with more than 135 cards included in the upcoming release.
Another major addition is the new Legendary Stadium mechanic, which allows players to combine two Stadium cards into a single connected illustration while introducing new strategic possibilities. The expansion includes three Legendary Stadiums, alongside 14 illustration rare cards and six special illustration rare Pokémon and Supporter cards.
Pokémon TCG: Mega Evolution—Delta Reign officially launches November 6, 2026, with booster packs, Elite Trainer Boxes, and other collections available through participating retailers. Fans can also experience the expansion digitally through Pokémon TCG Live beginning November 5.
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