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This Week's Top Pokémon Card Gainers and Losers - May 9

by Benjamin May 12,2025

Another week brings more shifts in the Pokémon TCG single card market as trainers eagerly await the release of Destined Rivals. Thankfully, the Black Bolt and White Flare Pokémon Center preorders managed to avoid a bot takeover this time around.

The most significant price drop this week was seen with Greninja ex 214/167, which has plummeted by nearly 50% since the start of the year. We're also witnessing price reductions across the Obsidian Flames and the elusive 151 expansions. On the flip side, Dragonite V from Evolving Skies has nearly doubled in value since January, and its artwork has always made it seem undervalued.

Charizard V Alt Art continues to impress, showcasing a battle against Venusaur while steadily increasing in value. Meanwhile, Rayquaza VMAX Alt Art is soaring, having gained an additional $100 in value since the beginning of the year. Let's delve into the rest of the week's biggest Pokémon TCG climbers and crashers.

Pokémon Card Crashes

IGN Photo Composite / The Pokémon Company

While Sword and Shield era cards are finally on the rise, Scarlet and Violet series cards are returning to more reasonable prices.

Alakazam ex SIR from 151 is a stunning card, now 34% cheaper than at the beginning of March. It's a must-have for any collector this year.

Bulbasaur was my first starter Pokémon back in Pokémon Blue, so Bulbasaur IR holds a special place in my heart. Its value has dropped by a massive 52% since mid-March, making it a beautiful and affordable addition to any collection.

Moving to Obsidian Flames, Ninetales IR has always been a standout card in the set. With a 40% price drop since February, it's now available for a reasonable $18.17, making it the perfect time to add this card to your collection.

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, Charizard ex SIR stands out with its cool stained glass Tera form design. Although it hasn't dropped significantly since March, saving $5 is still a win.

The biggest crasher this month is Greninja ex SIR, once poised to be the most expensive Scarlet and Violet era card. However, with the arrival of Prismatic Evolutions, the FOMO has intensified. It remains a classy card, holding steady at $275, but it's a stark contrast to its $411.62 price at the end of February.

Pokémon Card Climbers

IGN Photo Composite / The Pokémon Company

This week's climbers include Rayquaza VMAX Alt Art, a prized card from the Sword and Shield era. Already valued over $500, it now stands at $649.99 and shows no signs of slowing down. It could potentially reach $1,000 in a few years, so if you can afford it, it's a wise investment.

For those who love the Kanto region, Charizard V Alt Art delivers with its dynamic battle against Venusaur. Its unique angle and sense of movement set it apart from many static Pokémon cards. It has gained another $40 since January and could surpass $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

Dragonite V Alt Art is a highlight of Evolving Skies, capturing the essence of this fan-favorite Pokémon. Its adorable artwork has nearly doubled its value since mid-January, now at a solid $225. Be sure to grab one before its value soars even higher. Don't miss last week's article for more great picks.

Pokémon Card Sealed Boosters

For those dedicated to pulling chase cards, here are some sealed boosters 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 don't miss out on any new releases. Buying singles is the most cost-effective way to collect right now, but remember, you don't have to "Catch 'Em All!"