Another week, another whirlwind of changes in the Pokémon single card market as trainers eagerly await the release of Destined Rivals. Thankfully, the preorders for the Black Bolt and White Flare sets at the Pokémon Center were spared from a bot takeover this time around.
The most significant drop this week was the Greninja ex 214/167, which plummeted by nearly 50% since the beginning of the year. We're also seeing substantial price reductions across cards from the Obsidian Flames and the elusive 151 expansions. On the flip side, Dragonite V from Evolving Skies is experiencing a surge, nearly doubling in value compared to January, with its artwork highlighting its previously undervalued status.
Charizard V Alt Art continues to impress, capturing a thrilling battle against Venusaur while steadily increasing in value. Meanwhile, Rayquazza VMAX Alt Art is soaring, gaining an extra $100 in value since the start of the year. Let's explore the other notable Pokémon TCG market movements of the week.
Pokémon Card Crashes
IGN Photo Composite / The Pokémon Company
While Sword and Shield era cards are finally seeing an upward trend, Scarlet and Violet series cards are returning to more reasonable prices.
The stunning Alakazam ex SIR from 151 is now 34% cheaper than it was at the beginning of March. With such a beautiful card, there's no reason not to add Uri Gellar's Grandad to your collection this year.
Bulbasaur was my first starter Pokémon back in Pokémon Blue, so the Bulbasaur IR holds a special place in my heart. Its price has dropped a massive 52% since mid-March, making it an affordable gem to catch.
In the Obsidian Flames set, Ninetales IR remains a standout card. With a 40% price drop since February, you can now grab it 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
Despite any criticism of Obsidian Flames, the Charizard ex SIR is undeniably cool with its stained glass Tera form design. While it hasn't dropped significantly since March, saving $5 is still a win.
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 escalated the FOMO. It remains a top-tier card at $275, but imagine paying $411.62 at the end of February—ouch.
Pokémon Card Climbers
IGN Photo Composite / The Pokémon Company
Moving on to this week's climbers, Rayquazza VMAX alt art stands as a grail card from the Sword and Shield era. Already valued at over $500, it's now at $649.99 and showing no signs of slowing down. It 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 the Charizard V Alt Art nails it with its dynamic battle against Venusaur. Its unique angle makes it feel alive, unlike many static Pokémon cards (WotC era, I'm looking at you). It's gained another $40 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 highlight, showcasing a beloved Pokémon that can look adorable or fierce. Its unique artwork has nearly doubled its value since mid-January, now at a solid $225. Be sure to snag one before it rises further. Don't miss out on last week's article, which also featured some fantastic cards.
Pokémon Card Sealed Boosters
If you're dedicated to pulling chase cards yourself, here's what's currently in stock. Be wary of prices above MSRP, as we're in a unique situation as Pokémon trainers, so avoid overpaying.
Check out the full Pokémon TCG release schedule for this year to stay updated. While buying singles is currently the most cost-effective way to collect, 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
