Pokémon TCG: 151 Booster Bundle Available on Amazon - Still in Stock

The return of Pokémon 151 booster bundles on Amazon is a bittersweet moment for collectors. While it's great to see these sought-after items back in stock, the price tag is a sticking point. Amazon is currently listing the bundle at over $60, which is more than double the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $26.94. It's hard to call this a "deal," but given the rapid sell-out rate of this set, it's difficult to dismiss it entirely.

Pokémon TCG: 151 Booster Bundle Is Back In Stock For A Premium

Pokémon TCG: 151 Booster Bundle

Full Disclosure: MSRP is $26.94
$82.50 save 16%
$68.92 at Amazon

What keeps drawing me back to the 151 set is its ability to go beyond mere nostalgia. The card art in this set is truly exceptional, moving far past the typical shiny-thing-on-a-blank-background design. For instance, the Illustration Rare Bulbasaur is a standout, depicted as if it's lost in a lush jungle reminiscent of a Ghibli film. It's captivating. Meanwhile, Alakazam ex looks like it's immersed in studying for a psychic PhD amidst a cluttered study, adding an endearing charm to the card.

Charmeleon - 169/165

$30.99 at TCG Player

Bulbasaur - 166/165

$37.99 at TCG Player

Alakazam ex - 201/165

$53.99 at TCG Player

Squirtle - 170/165

$40.99 at TCG Player

Charizard ex - 183/165

$35.40 at TCG Player

The strength of this set lies in its seamless integration of art and gameplay. Cards like Blastoise ex not only boast impressive abilities but also possess artwork that feels gallery-worthy. Even Charmander has been given an upgrade, now sporting 70 HP, which might seem minor but is crucial in surviving initial chip damage that would have knocked out its predecessors. This subtle yet impactful enhancement encapsulates the essence of the set.

Charmander - 168/165

$45.05 at TCG Player

Zapdos ex - 202/165

$60.68 at TCG Player

Blastoise ex - 200/165

$60.00 at TCG Player

Venusaur ex - 198/165

$77.73 at TCG Player

Charizard ex - 199/165

$234.99 at TCG Player

Not every card in the set is a winner. Zapdos ex, for instance, is functional but lacks the visual appeal or deck-building potential of others. However, the overall quality remains high. Venusaur ex strikes a perfect balance between function and flair, while Squirtle's artwork manages to portray a cartoon turtle as part of a real ecosystem. The attention to detail in these designs is truly commendable.

While I'm not thrilled about paying above MSRP, I can't deny the value packed into this set. If you're in the market for packs that are enjoyable to open and offer a chance at high-value pulls, the 151 set is still one of the best options available. Just be prepared to pay whatever premium Amazon decides to charge.