Another week, another rollercoaster ride in the Pokémon single card market as fans eagerly await the release of Destined Rivals. Thankfully, the preorders for Black Bolt and White Flare at Pokémon Centers managed to dodge a bot takeover this time around.
This week's most dramatic price drop is the Greninja ex 214/167, which has plummeted by nearly half since the beginning of the year. We're also witnessing significant price reductions across cards from Obsidian Flames and the elusive 151 expansions. On the flip side, Dragonite V from Evolving Skies is experiencing a surge, nearly doubling in value, and its stunning artwork has long been underappreciated.
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 truly taking off, gaining an additional $100 in value since January. Let's delve into the week's most notable Pokémon TCG climbers and crashers.
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 returning to more grounded prices.
Alakazam ex SIR from 151 is a stunning card, now 34% cheaper than it was at the start of March. It's a must-have for any collection this year.
Bulbasaur IR holds a special place in my heart as my first starter Pokémon from Pokémon Blue. It has seen a significant 52% drop since mid-March, making it an affordable gem to add to your collection.
Ninetales IR from Obsidian Flames remains one of the set's top cards. With a 40% price drop since February, now is the perfect time to grab this beauty for just $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
Obsidian Flames may have its critics, but the Charizard ex SIR is undeniably cool with its stained glass Tera form. Although it hasn't dropped much since March, every dollar saved counts.
The biggest crasher this month is Greninja ex SIR, which once seemed poised to be the priciest card of the Scarlet and Violet era. However, with the arrival of Prismatic Evolutions, the hype has shifted. It's still a fantastic card holding steady at $275, but that's a far cry from its $411.62 price tag at the end of February.
Pokémon Card Climbers
IGN Photo Composite / The Pokémon Company
This week's climbers include Rayquaza VMAX alt art, a standout from the Sword and Shield era. Already valued over $500, it's now at $649.99 and shows no signs of slowing down. It could easily reach the $1,000 mark in the coming years, so it's a wise investment if you can afford it.
Charizard V Alt Art captures the essence of a battle with Venusaur, featuring dynamic artwork that sets it apart from static images common in many Pokémon cards. It has gained $40 in value since January and could surpass $200 by year's 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 is a fan favorite, showcasing the Pokémon's adorable yet fierce nature. Its artwork has driven its value nearly to double since mid-January, now sitting at a solid $225. Don't miss out on last week's article, which featured some other standout cards.
Pokémon Card Sealed Boosters
For those committed to pulling chase cards themselves, here's what's currently in stock. Be cautious of prices exceeding MSRP, as the market remains volatile. Check out the Pokémon TCG full release schedule for 2023 to stay updated and remember, buying singles is currently the most cost-effective way to build your collection.
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