Another week, another rollercoaster ride in the Pokémon single card market as trainers eagerly await the release of Destined Rivals. Thankfully, the Black Bolt and White Flare Pokémon Center preorders managed to dodge the bot takeover this time around.
The most significant price drop this week was for Greninja ex 214/167, which has plummeted by nearly half its value since the start of the year. We're also seeing notable price reductions 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 the beginning of the year, with its artwork always making it a steal.
Charizard V Alt Art continues to impress with its dynamic depiction of a battle against Venusaur and is slowly climbing in value. Meanwhile, Rayquaza VMAX Alt Art is soaring, gaining an additional $100 in value since the start of the year. Let's delve deeper into the week's biggest Pokémon TCG climbers and crashers.
IGN Photo Composite / The Pokémon Company
While Sword and Shield era Pokémon cards are finally seeing a noticeable increase in value, Scarlet and Violet series cards are gradually settling back to more realistic prices.
Alakazam ex SIR from the 151 expansion is a stunning card that's now 34% lower in price compared to the beginning of March. There's no reason not to include Uri Gellar's grandad in your binder this year.
Bulbasaur was my first starter Pokémon back in Pokémon Blue, so the Bulbasaur IR holds a special place in my heart. Its value has dropped by a massive 52% since mid-March, making it an excellent time to add this beautiful card to your collection.
Moving on to Obsidian Flames, Ninetales IR has always been one of the set's best cards. If you're a fan, now's the time to grab it, as its price has crashed by 40% since February, bringing it to a reasonable $18.17.
0$411.62 save 33%$275.00 at TCG Player
0$56.62 save 34%$37.62 at TCG Player
0$52.82 save 49%$27.00 at TCG Player
0$30.04 save 40%$18.17 at TCG Player
0$64.80 save 7%$59.99 at TCG Player
People can criticize Obsidian Flames all they want, but the Charizard ex SIR is undeniably cool with its stained glass Tera form design. While it hasn't dropped much since March, every dollar saved counts.
The biggest crasher this month is Greninja ex SIR, which was poised to be the most expensive Scarlet and Violet era card until Prismatic Evolutions came along and ramped up the FOMO. It's still a fantastic card holding steady at $275, but imagine paying $411.62 back in February.
IGN Photo Composite / The Pokémon Company
Moving on to this week's climbers, Rayquaza VMAX Alt Art remains one of the crown jewels of the Sword and Shield era. Already valued at 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 grab one if you can afford it.
There's never enough love for Kanto in my book, and Charizard V Alt Art delivers with its engaging battle scene against Venusaur. Its dynamic angle makes it feel alive, unlike the static poses common in many Pokémon cards. It's gained another $40 since January and could easily surpass $200 before the year ends.
0$649.99 at TCG Player
0$184.61 at TCG Player
0$225.00 at TCG Player
0$411.62 save 33%$275.00 at TCG Player
Dragonite V Alt Art from Evolving Skies is a highlight of the set. This fan-favorite Pokémon can appear both adorable and fierce, offering a complete package distinct from its pre-evolutions. Its cute side shines in this artwork, which is why it's nearly doubled in value since mid-January, now sitting at a solid $225. Be sure to grab one before its value soars even higher. Don't miss last week's article, which also features some incredible cards.
If you're committed to pulling chase cards yourself, here's what's currently in stock. Be cautious of prices above MSRP, as we're in a unique 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 out on anything. While buying singles is currently the most cost-effective way to collect, remember that you don't have to "Catch 'Em All!"
4$275.65 save 4%$265.99 at Amazon
2$142.92 at Amazon
2$66.86 at Amazon
3$69.45 save 8%$63.99 at Amazon
5$59.99 at Amazon
4$59.99 save 15%$50.90 at Amazon
2$59.99 save 16%$50.38 at Amazon
4$49.99 at Amazon