Top Pokémon Card Gainers and Losers: Week of May 9

Another week brings another rollercoaster ride in the Pokémon TCG single card market, with fans eagerly awaiting the release of Destined Rivals. Fortunately, the preorders for Black Bolt and White Flare from the Pokémon Center managed to sidestep a bot takeover this time around.

The standout crash this week is Greninja ex 214/167, which has plummeted by nearly half its value since the start of the year. We're also seeing significant price reductions in 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, and its artwork has always been a hidden gem.

Charizard V Alt Art continues to impress with its dynamic depiction of a battle against Venusaur, steadily increasing in value. Meanwhile, Rayquaza VMAX Alt Art is soaring, gaining an extra $100 in value since the start of the year. Let's delve into the biggest climbers and crashers in the Pokémon TCG market this week.

Pokémon Card Crashes

IGN Photo Composite / The Pokémon CompanyWhile we're seeing a notable rise in Sword and Shield era cards, the Scarlet and Violet series is gradually returning to more reasonable prices.

Alakazam ex SIR from 151 is a stunning card that has dropped 34% in price since early March, making it a must-have for any collection.

Bulbasaur, my first starter Pokémon from Pokémon Blue, holds a special place in my heart. The Bulbasaur IR card has seen a massive 52% price drop since mid-March, making it an irresistible addition to any collection.

Moving to Obsidian Flames, Ninetales IR is one of the set's highlights. If you're a fan, now's the time to grab this card as it's crashed by 40% since February, 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 PlayerDespite any criticism of Obsidian Flames, Charizard ex SIR stands out with its stunning 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, which was once poised to be the priciest card of the Scarlet and Violet era. However, Prismatic Evolutions shifted the focus, and while it's still a valuable card at $275, it's a stark contrast to its $411.62 price at the end of February.

Pokémon Card Climbers

IGN Photo Composite / The Pokémon CompanyTurning to this week's climbers, Rayquaza VMAX Alt Art remains a coveted card from the Sword and Shield era. 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, so it's a wise investment if you can afford it.

Charizard V Alt Art captures the essence of a battle with Venusaur brilliantly, with a dynamic angle that sets it apart from many static Pokémon card designs. It's gained $40 since January and could easily surpass $200 by year's 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 PlayerDragonite V Alt Art is a standout from Evolving Skies, featuring a beloved Pokémon that can look both adorable and fierce. Its unique artwork, distinct from its pre-evolutions, has contributed to its near doubling in value since mid-January, now at a solid $225. Be sure to catch last week's article for more exciting card highlights.

Pokémon Card Sealed Boosters

For those committed to pulling chase cards themselves, here are some in-stock options. Be cautious of prices above MSRP, as the market is currently unpredictable. Here's the full release schedule for the Pokémon TCG this year to help you stay updated. While buying singles is currently the most cost-effective way to collect, remember you don't need to "Catch 'Em All!"

### Surging Sparks Booster Box