Home News Pokémon Card Market Shifts: Biggest Crashers and Climbers - May 9

Pokémon Card Market Shifts: Biggest Crashers and Climbers - May 9

Author : Aurora Update : May 15,2025

Another week, another whirlwind of changes in the Pokémon single card market as trainers eagerly await the release of Destined Rivals. Thankfully, the preorders for Black Bolt and White Flare at the Pokémon Center managed to dodge the usual bot frenzy this time around.

The most significant price drop this week is seen with Greninja ex 214/167, which has plummeted by nearly half its value since the start of the year. We're also witnessing notable price reductions across cards from the Obsidian Flames and 151 expansions. On the flip side, Dragonite V from Evolving Skies is on an upward trajectory, nearly doubling in value since January, a testament to its undervalued artwork.

Charizard V Alt Art continues to impress, showcasing a dynamic battle with Venusaur and steadily increasing in value. Meanwhile, Rayquazza VMAX Alt Art is experiencing a meteoric rise, gaining an additional $100 in value since the year began. Let's dive into the week's top Pokémon TCG climbers and crashers.

Pokémon Card Crashes

IGN Photo Composite / The Pokémon Company

While Sword and Shield era cards are finally seeing an uptick, Scarlet and Violet series cards are returning to more grounded prices.

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

Bulbasaur has a special place in many hearts, including mine, as it was my first starter in Pokémon Blue. The Bulbasaur IR has seen a significant 52% drop since mid-March, making it a great time to add this beautiful card to your collection.

From Obsidian Flames, Ninetales IR remains one of the set's highlights. With a 40% price reduction 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

Charizard ex SIR from Obsidian Flames, with its striking stained glass look in its Tera form, remains a showpiece. While it hasn't dropped significantly since March, saving $5 is still a win.

The biggest crasher this month is Greninja ex SIR, which was once poised to be the most expensive Scarlet and Violet card. However, with the arrival of Prismatic Evolutions, the fear of missing out (FOMO) escalated dramatically. Despite its current value of $275, it's a far cry from its February peak of $411.62.

Pokémon Card Climbers

IGN Photo Composite / The Pokémon Company

Moving on to this week's climbers, Rayquazza VMAX Alt Art stands out as one of the Sword and Shield era's most sought-after cards. Already valued at over $500, it's now at $649.99 and shows no signs of slowing down. It could potentially reach $1,000 in a few years, making it a wise investment if you can afford it.

Charizard V Alt Art captures the essence of a battle with Venusaur beautifully, and its dynamic angle sets it apart from many static Pokémon cards. It has gained $40 since January and could easily 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

Greninja ex - 214/167

0$411.62 save 33%$275.00 at TCG Player

Dragonite V Alt Art from Evolving Skies is a fan favorite, known for its ability to appear both adorable and fierce. Its current artwork highlights its cuter side, which has contributed to its nearly doubling in value since mid-January. Now at $225, it's a card to grab before it soars even higher. Don't miss last week's article for more exciting picks.

Pokémon Card Sealed Boosters

For those dedicated to pulling chase cards, here's what's currently in stock. Be wary of prices exceeding MSRP, as the market is in a strange place for Pokémon trainers. Remember, buying singles is currently the most cost-effective way to collect, but there's no pressure to "Catch 'Em All!"

Here's the Pokémon TCG full Release Schedule for this year to ensure you don't miss out on any new releases.