Another week brings more excitement to the Pokémon TCG market as trainers eagerly await the release of Destined Rivals. Thankfully, the preorders for Black Bolt and White Flare at the Pokémon Center managed to dodge the usual bot frenzy.
This week, the market saw significant shifts. Greninja ex 214/167 experienced a dramatic price drop, nearly halving in value since the start of the year. We're also seeing price reductions across cards from Obsidian Flames and the elusive 151 expansions. On the flip side, Dragonite V from Evolving Skies is soaring, nearly doubling in value since January, a testament to its stunning artwork that has always been undervalued.
Charizard V Alt Art continues to impress with its depiction of a battle against Venusaur, steadily climbing in value. Meanwhile, Rayquaza VMAX Alt Art is reaching new heights, gaining an additional $100 since the year began. Let's delve into the week's biggest risers and fallers in the Pokémon TCG market.
Pokémon Card Crashes
IGN Photo Composite / The Pokémon Company
While Sword and Shield era cards are on the rise, Scarlet and Violet series cards are settling into more realistic valuations.
Alakazam ex SIR from 151 is a stunning card, now 34% cheaper than at the beginning of March. It's the perfect time to add Uri Gellar's grandad to your collection.
Bulbasaur was my first starter in Pokémon Blue, so the Bulbasaur IR holds a special place in my heart. Its price has plummeted by 52% since mid-March, making it an irresistible addition to any collection.
From Obsidian Flames, Ninetales IR stands out as one of the set's best cards. With a 40% price drop since February, it's now available for a reasonable $18.17.
Greninja ex - 214/167
0$411.62 save 33%$275.00 at TCG Player
Alakazam ex - 201/165
0$56.62 save 34%$37.62 at TCG Player
Bulbasaur - 166/165
0$52.82 save 49%$27.00 at TCG Player
Ninetales -199/197
0$30.04 save 40%$18.17 at TCG Player
Charizard ex - 223/197
0$64.80 save 7%$59.99 at TCG Player
Despite some criticism of Obsidian Flames, Charizard ex SIR remains a standout with its stunning stained glass Tera form design. It's only dropped $5 since March, but every little bit helps.
The biggest crasher this month is Greninja ex SIR, which was once poised to be the priciest Scarlet and Violet card. However, with the arrival of Prismatic Evolutions, the FOMO intensified. It's still a premium card holding steady at $275, but consider the relief of not having paid $411.62 back in February.
Pokémon Card Climbers
IGN Photo Composite / The Pokémon Company
Turning to the week's climbers, Rayquaza VMAX Alt Art remains a coveted gem of the Sword and Shield era. Already valued over $500, it's now at $649.99 and shows no signs of slowing down. This card could potentially reach $1,000 in a few years, so it's a wise investment if you can afford it.
Charizard V Alt Art continues to captivate with its dynamic battle scene against Venusaur. Its value has increased by $40 since January, and it's on track to surpass $200 before the year ends.
Rayquaza VMAX - 218/203
0$649.99 at TCG Player
Charizard V - 154/172
0$184.61 at TCG Player
Dragonite V
0$225.00 at TCG Player
Greninja ex - 214/167
0$411.62 save 33%$275.00 at TCG Player
Dragonite V Alt Art from Evolving Skies is a beloved highlight. Its adorable yet fierce artwork has led to a near doubling in value since mid-January, now at a solid $225. Don't miss out on this fan-favorite before it flies even higher.
Pokémon Card Sealed Boosters
For those dedicated to pulling chase cards, here are some sealed booster options currently in stock. Be cautious of prices above MSRP; the market is unpredictable right now, so avoid overpaying.
Here's the full Pokémon TCG release schedule for the year to ensure you don't miss any releases. While buying singles remains the most cost-effective way to collect, remember, you don't have to "Catch 'Em All!"
Surging Sparks Booster Box
4$275.65 save 4%$265.99 at Amazon
Terapagos ex Ultra-Premium
2$142.92 at Amazon
Shrouded Fable ETB
2$66.86 at Amazon
Paldean Fates Booster Bundle
3$69.45 save 8%$63.99 at Amazon
Pokémon TCG: Prismatic Evolutions Surprise Box
5$59.99 at Amazon
2004 Pokéball Bundle
4$59.99 save 15%$50.90 at Amazon
2004 Pokéball Bundle
2$59.99 save 16%$50.38 at Amazon
Pokémon TCG: Mimikyu ex Box
4$49.99 at Amazon