Set Overview
Emerging Powers was the first expansion of the Black & White era, released in August 2011. It carried on the Unova region set and its two Full Art cards are Thundurus and Tornadus, the Forces of Nature.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Release Date | August 31, 2011 (English) |
| Publisher | Nintendo / The Pokémon Company |
| Total Cards | 98 numbered |
| Full Art | 2 cards |
| Key Chase Card | Thundurus 97/98, Tornadus 98/98 |
About the Set
Emerging Powers was the first expansion of the Black & White era, released in August 2011. It carried on the Unova region set and its two Full Art cards are Thundurus and Tornadus, the Forces of Nature.
How to identify it: numbered cards read N/98.
Rarities & Chase Cards
Emerging Powers had a single print run. Its structure breaks down as follows.
| Type | What it means |
|---|---|
| Main set (1–98) | Commons, uncommons, rares and holo rares that make up the bulk of the set. |
Complete Card Gallery
All 98 cards from Emerging Powers. Click any card to view it full size — use the arrow keys (or swipe) to move through the set.
Key Cards
The cards below lead Emerging Powers on the secondary market.
| Card | Name | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
 |
Thundurus 97/98 Full Art | A full art card and one of Emerging Powers’s headline pulls. |
 |
Tornadus 98/98 Full Art | A full art card and one of Emerging Powers’s headline pulls. |
Promo Cards
The BW Black Star Promos ran alongside the era’s expansions.
BW Black Star Promos use their own numbering (BW01 onward) and carry a black star where a set symbol would be.
Collecting & Where to Buy
Emerging Powers is out of print and trades on the secondary market. Common singles are inexpensive, while the Full Art cards and secret rares carry the strongest premiums.
Collector tip: the Full Art and secret cards are the prize — check borders and edges closely on any graded copy.
Note: external links are provided for reference only. Always confirm a card's printing, condition and authenticity before purchasing.