As the Pokémon TCG community eagerly anticipates the release of Destined Rivals, the market has seen significant fluctuations in card values over the past week. Fortunately, the Black Bolt and White Flare preorders from the Pokémon Center managed to dodge the usual bot frenzy.
One of the most notable drops this week was Greninja ex 214/167, which saw its price plummet by nearly 50% since the beginning of the year. Other cards from the Obsidian Flames and the elusive 151 expansions have also seen price reductions. In contrast, Dragonite V from Evolving Skies has experienced a remarkable surge, nearly doubling in value, a testament to the card's undervalued artwork.
Charizard V Alt Art continues to captivate fans with its dynamic depiction of a battle against Venusaur, steadily climbing in value. Meanwhile, Rayquaza VMAX Alt Art has soared to new heights, gaining an impressive $100 since the start of the year. 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 an upward trajectory, Scarlet and Violet series cards are adjusting to more reasonable prices.
Alakazam ex SIR from 151 is a visually stunning card, now 34% cheaper than at the beginning of March. It's the perfect addition to any collection this year.
Bulbasaur, my first starter Pokémon from Pokémon Blue, holds a special place in my heart. The Bulbasaur IR has seen a significant 52% drop since mid-March, making it an affordable gem to add to your collection.
In the Obsidian Flames set, Ninetales IR remains a standout card. With a 40% price reduction 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
Charizard ex SIR from Obsidian Flames, with its striking stained glass Tera form, remains a showstopper. Though the price drop has been modest, saving $5 since March is still a win.
Greninja ex SIR, once poised to be the priciest Scarlet and Violet card, has seen a significant decline, now at $275 compared to $411.62 in February. Despite the drop, it remains a high-quality card.
Pokémon Card Climbers
IGN Photo Composite / The Pokémon Company
Rayquaza VMAX alt art, a coveted card from the Sword and Shield era, continues its ascent. Priced at $649.99, it's a prime investment that could reach $1,000 in the coming years.
Charizard V Alt Art, showcasing a dynamic battle with Venusaur, has gained $40 since January. Its unique perspective and action-oriented design set it apart, with potential to surpass $200 before year-end.
### 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 has charmed collectors with its adorable yet fierce artwork, nearly doubling in value to $225 since January. It's a must-have before it flies even higher.
Pokémon Card Sealed Boosters
For those committed to pulling chase cards themselves, here's a selection of currently available sealed products. Be wary of prices above MSRP, as the market remains volatile.
For a comprehensive look at this year's releases, check out the Pokémon TCG full Release Schedule. While buying singles remains the most cost-effective way to collect, remember that you don't need 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