The Biggest Pokémon Card Crashers And Climbers This Week - May 9

Another week has come and gone, and the Pokémon single card market is as volatile as ever—just another day in the life of a dedicated trainer. With Destined Rivals on the horizon, collectors and players alike are keeping a close eye on price trends, while the recent Black Bolt and White Flare Pokémon Center preorders managed to dodge the usual bot frenzy. A small win, but a win nonetheless.

This week’s biggest headline? The dramatic fall of Greninja ex 214/167, which has lost nearly half its value since the start of the year. That’s a steep drop for a card once poised to become the most valuable in the Scarlet & Violet era. Meanwhile, Obsidian Flames and 151 sets are seeing broad price corrections, making now a smart time to pick up some high-quality chase cards at a discount.

On the flip side, some cards are soaring. Dragonite V from Evolving Skies has nearly doubled in value since January, proving that timeless appeal and stunning art can drive long-term demand. The Charizard V Alt Art card continues its steady climb, capturing the intensity of a battle with Venusaur in a dynamic, motion-filled illustration that stands out from typical static designs. And then there’s Rayquaza VMAX Alt Art—already a Sword & Shield era grail—which has surged another $100 this year, now sitting at $649.99 and showing no signs of slowing down.

Let’s break down the biggest Pokémon TCG price movers of the week.

Pokémon Card Crashes

IGN Photo Composite / The Pokémon Company

While Sword & Shield-era cards are finally gaining momentum, many Scarlet & Violet series singles are cooling off, returning to more realistic valuations.

Alakazam ex SIR from the 151 set remains a visually stunning card, now 34% cheaper than it was at the beginning of March. With its elegant design and psychic flair, it’s a no-brainer for any collector’s binder.

Bulbasaur IR, a nostalgic favorite for many longtime fans, has dropped a staggering 52% since mid-March. As one of the original starters, this card carries both sentimental and aesthetic value—now at a price that makes it accessible to all.

From Obsidian Flames, Ninetales IR has long been one of the standout cards of the set. Down 40% since February, it’s now available for a reasonable $18.17, making it a perfect addition for fans of Fire-type elegance.

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 the mixed reception of Obsidian Flames, Charizard ex SIR stands out with its striking stained-glass Tera form artwork. While it hasn’t dropped dramatically, a $5 discount is still a win.

The biggest crash of the month, however, is undeniably Greninja ex SIR. Once expected to dominate the market, its value plummeted after Prismatic Evolutions reignited collector FOMO. Still holding strong at $275, it’s a far cry from its $411.62 peak in February—a cautionary tale in Pokémon TCG investing.

Pokémon Card Climbers

IGN Photo Composite / The Pokémon Company

This week’s gainers are led by the legendary Rayquaza VMAX Alt Art, a true crown jewel of the Sword & Shield era. Already valued at $649.99, it continues to climb and could realistically breach the $1,000 mark in the coming years. For serious collectors, this is a must-have.

Charizard V Alt Art delivers pure Kanto nostalgia with its dramatic battle scene against Venusaur. The dynamic angle and sense of motion elevate it above typical static illustrations, making it one of the most desirable modern Charizard variants. Up $40 since January, it’s on track 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 remains a fan favorite—both adorable and fearsome in equal measure. Its unique design, a complete departure from its earlier evolutions, has fueled its popularity. Since mid-January, its value has nearly doubled, now sitting at $225. Don’t wait too long—this one’s on the rise.

Pokémon Card Sealed Products

For those who prefer the thrill of the pull, here’s what’s currently available in sealed format. Be mindful of pricing—many products are being sold above MSRP, so shop wisely.

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

For a complete overview, check out the full Pokémon TCG 2025 Release Schedule to stay ahead of upcoming sets. While buying singles remains the most cost-effective way to build a collection, remember—you don’t have to Catch ‘Em All to enjoy the journey.