Another week brings more twists and turns in the dynamic Pokémon single card market as fans eagerly await the release of Destined Rivals. Fortunately, the Black Bolt and White Flare Pokémon Center preorders managed to dodge the usual bot takeover chaos this time around.
The most significant plummet this week was Greninja ex 214/167, which has crashed by nearly 50% since the start of the year. We're also witnessing appealing price drops across the Obsidian Flames and the elusive 151 expansions. On the flip side, Dragonite V from Evolving Skies is on an upward trajectory, nearly doubling in value since January, a testament to its stunning artwork that has long made it an undervalued gem.
Charizard V Alt Art continues to impress, featuring a dynamic battle against Venusaur and steadily climbing in value. Meanwhile, Rayquaza VMAX Alt Art is soaring to new heights, gaining an additional $100 in value since the beginning of the year. Let's dive deeper into the week's biggest climbers and crashers in the Pokémon TCG market.
Pokémon Card Crashes
IGN Photo Composite / The Pokémon Company
While we're finally seeing a noticeable rise in Sword and Shield era Pokémon Cards, Scarlet and Violet series cards are settling back into more realistic price ranges.
Alakazam ex SIR from 151 is a stunning card, now 34% lower in price than at the beginning of March. There's no reason not to add Uri Gellar's Grandad to your collection this year.
Bulbasaur was my first starter Pokémon back in Pokémon Blue, so this Bulbasaur IR holds a special place in my heart. It has seen a significant 52% drop since mid-March, making it a must-have for any collection.
Moving to Obsidian Flames, Ninetales IR has always been a highlight of the set. With a 40% price drop since February to a reasonable $18.17, it's the perfect time to grab this beautiful card.
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
People can criticize Obsidian Flames all they want, but the Charizard ex SIR with its stained glass Tera form is undeniably cool. It may not have dropped significantly since March, but every dollar saved counts.
The biggest crasher this month is Greninja ex SIR, which once seemed poised to be the priciest Scarlet and Violet era card. However, Prismatic Evolutions ramped up the FOMO. It's still a fantastic card holding steady at $275, but imagine paying $411.62 at the end of February. Ouch.
Pokémon Card Climbers
IGN Photo Composite / The Pokémon Company
Turning to this week's climbers, Rayquaza VMAX alt art remains a coveted gem of the Sword and Shield era. Already a $500+ card, it's now at $649.99 and showing no signs of slowing down. It might even reach the $1,000 mark in a few years, so it's worth considering if you can afford it.
There's never enough love for Kanto in my book, and Charizard V Alt Art delivers with its epic battle against Venusaur. The dynamic angle makes it feel alive, unlike the static shots common in many Pokémon cards (I'm looking at you, WotC era). It has gained another $40 since January and could easily 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 standout. This fan-favorite Pokémon can look adorable or menacing, and this artwork captures its cute side perfectly. It's nearly doubled in value since mid-January, now at a solid $225. Grab yours before it soars even higher. Don't forget to check out last week's article for more exciting picks.
Pokémon Card Sealed Boosters
If you're committed to pulling chase cards yourself, here's what's currently in stock. Be cautious of prices exceeding MSRP; we're in a strange spot as Pokémon trainers right now, so avoid overpaying.
Here's the Pokémon TCG full Release Schedule for this year to ensure you don't miss anything. Buying singles remains the most cost-effective way to collect, but 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
