I had no intention of buying more Pokémon cards this week. But then I spotted that the Scarlet & Violet – Surging Sparks Booster Bundle was still in stock on Amazon for $45.02, right after their massive Pokémon TCG restock. The timing couldn't be better, with the Amazon Spring Sale in full swing, offering a plethora of sought-after sets while supplies last. My resolve crumbled faster than a 60 HP Basic Pokémon facing a 390-damage Hydreigon ex.
The Surging Sparks set is a whirlwind of excitement and chaos, packed with chase cards that are prime candidates for grading and collection. Take the Pikachu ex Special Illustration Rare, valued at a staggering $432 – no typo there. This electric powerhouse not only shines as a collectible but also dominates in battles with its Topaz Bolt ability, which can clear almost any opponent from the board, and Resolute Heart, making it tough to knock out.
1$45.02 at Amazon
2$55.00 at Amazon
4$67.99 save 12%$60.11 at Amazon
6$59.87 at Amazon
3$29.87 at Amazon
2$37.94 save 16%$31.74 at Amazon
3$31.22 at Amazon
3$28.49 at Amazon
6$29.77 at Amazon
4$35.92 at Amazon
2$29.92 at Amazon
2$42.74 at Amazon
3$33.47 at Amazon
5$29.29 at Amazon
0$20.24 at Amazon
0$61.07 at Amazon
1$123.76 at Amazon
2$45.80 at Amazon
0$44.29 at Amazon
1$67.61 at Amazon
3$25.33 at Amazon
3$31.38 at Amazon
0$24.41 at Amazon
2$32.99 save 23%$25.46 at Amazon
0$33.35 at Amazon
1$47.75 at Amazon
0$32.48 at Amazon
0$35.11 at Amazon
1$25.02 at Amazon
1$49.29 at Amazon
0$42.72 at Amazon
2$31.31 at Amazon
0$24.99 save 21%$19.70 at Amazon
0$21.42 at Amazon
0$20.04 at Amazon
1$27.80 at Amazon
0$27.61 save 14%$23.68 at Amazon
0$20.39 at Amazon
1$60.54 at Amazon
1$32.14 at Amazon
0$24.20 at Amazon
0$73.45 at Amazon
1$63.34 at Amazon
0$404.43 at Amazon
0$26.10 at Amazon
0$21.34 at Amazon
0$42.45 at Amazon
1$84.00 at Amazon
0$44.45 at Amazon
0$21.26 at Amazon
0$65.16 at Amazon
1$82.41 at Amazon
0$34.98 at Amazon
2$49.96 at Amazon
3$54.99 save 5%$51.97 at Amazon
4$57.69 at Amazon
Then there's the Latias ex and Latios duo, featuring stunning connected artwork that feels like a scene straight out of a romance movie. Latias, the rarer and pricier of the two at over $200, showcases the premium value of sibling dynamics. Meanwhile, Milotic ex struts its stuff with dramatic light and shadow effects, doubling as a formidable counter to Tera Pokémon in the meta.
My personal highlight? Ceruledge. Its card art evokes neon fever dreams, and I mean that in the best way possible. This is the first time Ceruledge's card has held significant value, and illustrator Rond truly deserves recognition. Even though Ceruledge isn't a top-tier competitive Pokémon, the art alone makes it a must-have for me.
For collectors, the value potential is undeniable. For players, some of these cards are game-changers on the battlefield. And if you're simply drawn to the allure of shiny things and the excitement of spending $45 on cardboard, you're in good company. I've already opened one box and am now convincing myself I "need" another for research purposes.
The bundle comes with six booster packs, so there's no guarantee of pulling the big hitters, but given how quickly these are selling out, it's wise not to delay. After all, Pikachu won't pull itself.