Another week brings another rollercoaster of changes in the Pokémon single card market as trainers eagerly await the release of Destined Rivals. Fortunately, the preorders for Black Bolt and White Flare at the Pokémon Center managed to dodge the usual bot frenzy this time around.
The most significant drop this week belongs to Greninja ex 214/167, which has plummeted nearly 50% since the beginning of the year. We're also seeing appealing price reductions across cards from the Obsidian Flames and the elusive 151 expansions. On the flip side, Dragonite V from Evolving Skies is soaring, nearly doubling in value since January, and its artwork has always been a hidden gem.
Charizard V Alt Art continues to impress, showcasing a dynamic battle against Venusaur and steadily climbing in value. Meanwhile, Rayquaza VMAX Alt Art is reaching new heights, gaining an additional $100 in value since the start of the year. Let's delve into the week's most notable climbers and crashers in the Pokémon TCG market.
Pokémon Card Crashes
IGN Photo Composite / The Pokémon CompanyAs Sword and Shield era cards begin to see an upward trend, Scarlet and Violet series cards are returning to more reasonable prices.
Alakazam ex SIR from the 151 set is a stunning card, now 34% cheaper than it was at the beginning of March. It's a must-have for any collection, especially if you're looking to showcase Uri Gellar's Grandad in your binder this year.
Bulbasaur was my first starter in Pokémon Blue, so Bulbasaur IR holds a special place in my heart. This card has seen a dramatic 52% price drop since mid-March, making it an excellent time to add this beauty to your collection.
In the Obsidian Flames set, Ninetales IR stands out as one of the best cards. If you're a fan, now's the perfect time to grab it at a 40% discount from February's price, now at 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 PlayerCharizard ex SIR from Obsidian Flames boasts a striking stained glass look in its Tera form, making it a showstopper. Although it hasn't dropped significantly since March, saving $5 is still a win.
The month's biggest crasher is Greninja ex SIR, which once seemed poised to be the priciest Scarlet and Violet era card. However, with the arrival of Prismatic Evolutions, the frenzy cooled down. It remains a fantastic card at $275, but imagine paying $411.62 at the end of February. Ouch.
Pokémon Card Climbers
IGN Photo Composite / The Pokémon CompanyTurning to this week's climbers, Rayquaza VMAX alt art is a prized possession from the Sword and Shield era. Already valued at over $500, it's now at $649.99 and shows no signs of slowing down. This could hit the $1,000 mark in a few years, so consider picking one up if you can.
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 like a moving scene rather than a static shot, a common flaw in many Pokémon cards from the WotC era. It's gained another $40 since January and could easily 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 PlayerDragonite V Alt Art from Evolving Skies is a standout, capturing the essence of a fan-favorite Pokémon that can look both adorable and fierce. Its artwork highlights its cute side, and that's why its value has nearly doubled since mid-January, now at a solid $225. Don't miss out on adding this card to your collection before it flies even higher. Did you catch last week's article? There are some incredible cards featured there as well.
Pokémon Card Sealed Boosters
For those dedicated to pulling chase cards themselves, here's a look at what's currently in stock. Be cautious of prices above MSRP; it's a tricky time for Pokémon trainers, so avoid overpaying.
Here's the Pokémon TCG full Release Schedule for this year, so you won't miss out on any releases. 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