Market outlook
Stable Outlook 8/10
The card already trades at a premium and has strong attention as the flagship chase of its set, but it is also a recent release, so near-term prices may fluctuate as more copies enter the market and grading population builds. The provided sources show consistent interest rather than a clear acceleration or collapse.[1][6][9][10][11]
Next months. Expect sideways-to-volatile movement with price sensitivity to grading results, openings, and overall Pitch Black supply.
Long term. Over 1-3 years, the card could appreciate if sealed supply tightens and Darkrai remains a top-tier collector character, but it will likely remain highly dependent on condition scarcity and graded/graded population growth.
History
Darkrai is a Mythical Pokémon introduced in the Pokémon franchise as a Dark-type creature associated with nightmares, darkness, and sleep-related powers. Mega Darkrai ex is a TCG depiction of Darkrai in a powered-up Mega Evolution form, presented here as the flagship chase card of the Pitch Black expansion. The card’s popularity comes from Darkrai’s long-standing status as a fan-favorite legendary-style Pokémon and from the dramatic, premium illustration treatment used for high-end secret rares.
This card was first released in the English Pitch Black expansion on July 17, 2026, as card 116/084, a Special Illustration Rare with holofoil treatment. The set guide and card listing identify it as the set’s headline chase card, with the English print appearing in the ME05: Pitch Black release.[1][6][9][13]
- Mega Darkrai ex 116/084 is identified as the Pitch Black Special Illustration Rare and the set’s top chase card among the normal secret rares.[1][6][9][10]
- The card is illustrated by Akira Egawa, a detail repeatedly highlighted by collectors and pricing guides as a major driver of demand.[4][6]
- Pitch Black includes multiple Mega Darkrai ex printings, and this 116/084 SIR is the premium artwork version that sits above the Ultra Rare and Double Rare versions in collectability.[6][10][11]
Rarity and print run
- Tier
- Secret Rare
- Print run
- High
- First printed in
- Pitch Black
- Demand
- Very High
- Supply
- Scarce
- Special Illustration Rare slot with premium artwork
- Headliner character from a chase-heavy set
- Appears as one of only six SIRs in Pitch Black
- Collector demand is amplified by Akira Egawa illustration credit
Collector notes
Condition. Check for edge whitening, corner fraying, surface scratches in the holofoil, print centering, and any indentation or roller marks, since Special Illustration Rares often show damage quickly on dark artwork and reflective surfaces. Because this is a premium chase card, even minor imperfections can materially affect grade value.
Storage. Store the card immediately in a penny sleeve and rigid top-loader or card saver, keep it away from humidity and direct light, and avoid repeated handling without clean hands or gloves. For long-term preservation, use acid-free storage and keep it flat to reduce warping of the foil stock.
Authenticity. Verify the exact numbering 116/084, the English text layout, set branding, and the quality of the holofoil pattern and print registration. Counterfeits often show washed-out colors, incorrect font weight, blurry text, inconsistent energy symbols, or poor texture fidelity on the illustration surface.
Sources: billsarchive.com, youtube.com, ludex.com, tcgwatchtower.com, cardrake.com
