Another week brings yet another wave of volatility in the Pokémon single card market, keeping collectors and traders on their toes as anticipation builds for the upcoming *Destined Rivals* release. On a positive note, the Pokémon Center preorders for *Black Bolt* and *White Flare* managed to avoid the usual bot frenzy this time around—good news for genuine fans hoping to secure a copy.
This week’s most dramatic drop belongs to Greninja ex 214/167, which has lost nearly half its value compared to the start of the year. Other notable price declines are appearing across sets like *Obsidian Flames* and the highly sought-after *151* expansion. In contrast, Dragonite V from *Evolving Skies* is defying the trend, nearly doubling in value since January. Its stunning artwork alone has long suggested it was underrated.
Meanwhile, the Charizard V Alt Art continues to impress with its unique depiction of a battle against Venusaur, steadily climbing in value. Even more impressive is the Rayquaza VMAX Alt Art, which has soared by an additional $100 since the beginning of the year. Let’s dive into the full list of this week’s biggest climbers and crashers in the Pokémon TCG world.
Pokémon Card Crashers This Week
While we’re finally seeing some upward movement in Sword and Shield-era cards, many *Scarlet and Violet* series cards are cooling off and returning to more reasonable valuations.
- Alakazam ex SIR (151) — A beautifully illustrated card that has dropped by 34% since March began. There's no reason not to add this classic psychic powerhouse to your collection.
- Bulbasaur IR — As a nostalgic nod to my first starter Pokémon from *Pokémon Blue*, this card has plummeted by 52% since mid-March, making it an excellent buy for fans and collectors alike.
- Ninetales IR (Obsidian Flames) — Always one of the standout cards in the set, it has fallen by 40% from February prices, now sitting at a very reasonable $18.17.
Greninja ex – 214/167
$275.00 at TCG Player | Was $411.62 – Save 33%
Alakazam ex – 201/165
$37.62 at TCG Player | Was $56.62 – Save 34%
Bulbasaur – 166/165
$27.00 at TCG Player | Was $52.82 – Save 49%
Ninetales – 199/197
$18.17 at TCG Player | Was $30.04 – Save 40%
Charizard ex – 223/197
$59.99 at TCG Player | Was $64.80 – Save 7%
Despite mixed reviews about the *Obsidian Flames* set, this Charizard ex SIR remains a fan favorite thanks to its striking stained-glass Terastal design. While the price hasn’t dropped dramatically since March, every dollar saved counts!
The biggest drop of the month, however, is Greninja ex SIR. At one point, it looked poised to become the most valuable Scarlet and Violet era card until *Prismatic Evolutions* stole the spotlight and triggered a major FOMO surge. Still, it remains a top-tier collectible holding strong at $275. Imagine reading this while having paid $411 back in February—ouch!
This Week’s Climbers
Leading the charge this week is the Rayquaza VMAX Alt Art, one of the crown jewels of the Sword and Shield era. Already valued at over $500, it’s now pushing $650 and shows no signs of slowing down. Some experts believe it could easily hit the $1,000 mark within a few years—so grab one if you can afford it.
Kanto lovers will appreciate the Charizard V Alt Art, which features an epic showdown with Venusaur. The dynamic angle gives the illusion of motion, a refreshing change from the typical static poses seen on many Pokémon cards (we’re looking at you, Wizards of the Coast era). It’s gained another $40 since January and could easily surpass $200 before the year ends.
Rayquaza VMAX – 218/203
$649.99 at TCG Player
Charizard V – 154/172
$184.61 at TCG Player
Dragonite V
$225.00 at TCG Player
Greninja ex – 214/167
$275.00 at TCG Player | Was $411.62 – Save 33%
Dragonite V Alt Art from *Evolving Skies* is a standout piece. Known for its versatility in both power and charm, this artwork captures Dragonite’s softer side—exactly why its value has nearly doubled since January. At $225, it’s still a solid investment before it takes off even further. If you missed last week’s article, be sure to check it out—you might find a few more hidden gems.
Current Pokémon TCG Sealed Boosters in Stock
For those who prefer opening packs to chase rare cards, here are some of the latest booster boxes currently available:
Surging Sparks Booster Box
$265.99 at Amazon | Was $275.65 – Save 4%
Terapagos ex Ultra-Premium
$142.92 at Amazon
Shrouded Fable ETB
$66.86 at Amazon
Paldean Fates Booster Bundle
$63.99 at Amazon | Was $69.45 – Save 8%
Pokémon TCG: Prismatic Evolutions Surprise Box
$59.99 at Amazon
2004 Pokéball Bundle
$50.90 at Amazon | Was $59.99 – Save 15%
2004 Pokéball Bundle
$50.38 at Amazon | Was $59.99 – Save 16%
Pokémon TCG: Mimikyu ex Box
$49.99 at Amazon
If you're serious about collecting, don’t forget to check the [ttpp] for the latest Pokémon TCG release schedule so you never miss a drop. Buying singles is currently the most cost-effective way to build your collection, but remember—you don’t have to “Catch ‘Em All” unless you want to!
