Pokémon Storm Emerald (M6) is the latest Japanese expansion for the Pokémon Trading Card Game and is among the most exciting releases of 2026. The set continues the return of beloved Mega Pokémon and forms the basis for the later international expansions Delta Reign (English) and Delta-Herrschaft (German).

As Japanese Pokémon sets traditionally release several weeks before international versions, collectors get an early look at new cards, artworks, and products. This is precisely why this article focuses on the Japanese version. We will continuously supplement information on Delta Reign and Delta-Herrschaft as soon as it is officially released.

In this article:

• Storm Emerald at a glance
• What is Storm Emerald?
• Release
• Products
• Cards
• Differences JP / EN / DE
• FAQ

Storm Emerald (M6) at a glance

Japanese Name: Storm Emerald (M6)

English Name: Delta Reign

German Name: Delta-Herrschaft

Language in focus: 🇯🇵 Japanese

Release in Japan: July 31, 2026

Number of Cards: Not yet known

Base Set: 76 cards

Secret Rares: Not yet known

Series: Pokémon Trading Card Game

Highlight: Mega Rayquaza ex and the return of Mega Pokémon

What is Storm Emerald?

Storm Emerald is the sixth expansion in the Mega series (M6) of the Japanese Pokémon Trading Card Game. As with all Japanese main sets, new cards are first released in Japan before being adopted into international expansions a few weeks later.

For collectors and fans of Japanese Pokémon products, Storm Emerald is particularly interesting because booster displays are available early and often contain cards that will only be released much later internationally.

The contents of Storm Emerald also form the basis for the English expansion Delta Reign and the German expansion Delta-Herrschaft.

Why the focus on the Japanese version?

Akashi Cards focuses on high-quality Japanese Pokémon products. Therefore, this article primarily provides information on Storm Emerald.

The international versions Delta Reign and Delta-Herrschaft will, of course, also be considered. As soon as new cards, products, or official information are released, this article will be updated accordingly.

Release

Japan

Storm Emerald officially releases on July 31, 2026 in Japan.

English / German

The international and German expansion is named Delta Reign / Delta-Herrschaft and will be released on November 06, 2026.

Which products will be released?

Initially, two main products will be released for the Japanese launch of Storm Emerald.

Booster Display

The Japanese Booster Display contains 30 booster packs with five cards each. For many collectors, the display is the most popular way to open a new set and collect the first cards.

Booster Pack

In addition to complete displays, Storm Emerald is, of course, also available as individual booster packs.

International Products

For the English expansion Delta Reign and the German expansion Delta-Herrschaft, additional products such as Displays, Elite Trainer Boxes (ETBs), Booster Bundles, Blisters, Collection Boxes and other accessories will also be released. However, these will only be released with the international launches.

Already confirmed cards

With each new reveal wave, The Pokémon Company releases more cards from Storm Emerald.

The highlights so far include:

Mega Rayquaza ex

Mega Rayquaza ex is already one of the most famous cards in the set and symbolizes the return of Mega Pokémon.

Other confirmed cards

In addition to Mega Rayquaza ex, other interesting cards from Storm Emerald have already been revealed.

Legendary Ocean Trench

The Stadium card "Legendary Ocean Trench" consists of two card halves (071/076 and 072/076). Only when both halves are played together do they form a complete Stadium card.

Effect:

• Doubles Pokémon healing.
• A completely new card mechanic in the Pokémon Trading Card Game.

Legendary Mountain Peak

Also, "Legendary Mountain Peak" appears as a two-part Stadium card (073/076 and 074/076).

Effect:

• Also assembled from two card halves.
• Reduces the number of Prize cards needed when an opponent's Pokémon knocks out a Colorless Pokémon by 1.

New Stadium Mechanic

With Storm Emerald, Pokémon introduces two-part Stadium cards for the first time. Similar to the legendary LEGEND cards from HeartGold & SoulSilver, they consist of two separate cards that can only be played together. This new mechanic is expected to be one of the most exciting innovations of the set, both for gameplay and for collectors.

Storm Emerald, Delta Reign, and Delta-Herrschaft – What's the difference?

Many Pokémon fans wonder why the same expansion has different names.

The answer is simple:

• Storm Emerald is the original Japanese expansion.
• Delta Reign is the English version.
• Delta-Herrschaft is the German version.

The cards largely come from the same expansion. Differences exist primarily in the products and sometimes in the composition of individual cards.

Who is Storm Emerald for?

For Collectors

Japanese Pokémon products impress with their high-quality print, early release, and exclusive original packaging. Storm Emerald offers collectors the opportunity to discover new cards months before the international versions.

For Pokémon fans

With Mega Rayquaza ex and the return of Mega Pokémon, Storm Emerald is one of the most exciting Pokémon releases in recent years. Fans of the Hoenn region and classic Mega Evolutions will particularly enjoy this set.

For Investors

Early Japanese displays are often in high demand and are considered an interesting addition for long-term oriented collectors of popular Pokémon sets. Sets with iconic Pokémon like Mega Rayquaza are often particularly in focus.

FAQ

When will Storm Emerald be released?

The Japanese release is on July 31, 2026.

What is Storm Emerald called in English?

The English version will be released under the name Delta Reign.

What is Storm Emerald called in German?

The German expansion officially bears the name Delta-Herrschaft.

Are the cards identical?

The international expansions are largely based on the Japanese cards. Differences may occur in the composition of individual products.

Can I buy Storm Emerald, Delta Reign & Delta-Herrschaft at Akashi Cards?

As soon as products are available or can be pre-ordered, you will find them directly in the Akashi Cards assortment.

Conclusion

Even before its release, Storm Emerald is already one of the most interesting Japanese Pokémon expansions of 2026. The return of Mega Pokémon, high-quality cards, and early release make the set particularly exciting for both collectors and players.

Since Storm Emerald forms the basis for both Delta Reign and Delta-Herrschaft, it's worth following the set's development early on. This article will be regularly updated and supplemented as new cards, products, or official information are released.