Biggest Pokémon Card Crashers and Climbers: Week of May 9

Another week brings more excitement to the Pokémon TCG market as fans eagerly await the release of Destined Rivals. Thankfully, the preorders for Black Bolt and White Flare at the Pokémon Center managed to dodge a bot attack this time.

This week's most significant drop was the Greninja ex 214/167, which saw a nearly 50% price reduction since the beginning of the year. We're also witnessing substantial price drops across the Obsidian Flames and the elusive 151 expansions. On the flip side, Dragonite V from Evolving Skies has almost doubled in value, a testament to its stunning artwork that's always been undervalued.

Charizard V Alt Art continues to impress with its dynamic depiction of a battle against Venusaur, steadily climbing in value. Meanwhile, Rayquaza VMAX Alt Art is experiencing a meteoric rise, gaining an additional $100 since the start of the year. Let's delve deeper into the week's biggest climbers and crashers in the Pokémon TCG world.

Pokémon Card Crashes

IGN Photo Composite / The Pokémon Company

While Sword and Shield era cards are on an upward trajectory, Scarlet and Violet series cards are settling into more realistic prices.

Alakazam ex SIR from 151 is a stunning card, now 34% cheaper than at the beginning of March. It's the perfect time to add Uri Gellar's grandad to your collection.

Bulbasaur was my first starter in Pokémon Blue, so the Bulbasaur IR card holds a special place in my heart. It's seen a massive 52% price drop since mid-March, making it an affordable and beautiful addition to any collection.

Moving to Obsidian Flames, Ninetales IR remains one of the set's top cards. With a 40% price crash since February, it's now available 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. It hasn't dropped significantly since March, but every $5 saved counts.

The biggest price crash this month goes to Greninja ex SIR, once poised to be the priciest Scarlet and Violet era card. However, with the arrival of Prismatic Evolutions, the FOMO skyrocketed. It's still a classy card at $275, but imagine paying $411.62 back in February!

Pokémon Card Climbers

IGN Photo Composite / The Pokémon Company

Shifting focus to this week's climbers, Rayquaza VMAX alt art remains a coveted Sword and Shield era card. Already over $500, it's now at $649.99 with no signs of slowing down. It could easily hit $1,000 in a few years, so consider grabbing one if your budget allows.

Charizard V Alt Art captures the essence of a dynamic battle with Venusaur. Its unique angle and sense of movement set it apart from the static poses common in many Pokémon cards. It's gained $40 since January and could reach $200 before the year ends.

### 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 is a standout from Evolving Skies, showcasing the beloved Pokémon's adorable yet fierce nature. Its unique artwork has led to a near doubling in value since mid-January, now at a solid $225. Don't miss out before its value soars even higher. Be sure to check out last week's article for more exciting card highlights.

Pokémon Card Sealed Boosters

For those committed to pulling chase cards, here are some currently available sealed boosters. Keep an eye on prices to avoid overpaying, as the market remains unpredictable.

Here's the Pokémon TCG full Release Schedule for this year, ensuring you don't miss any releases. While buying singles remains the most cost-effective way to collect, remember that 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