Pokémon TCG Market Insights: Scarlet & Violet – Obsidian Flames (September 2024)
Overview
In the dynamic world of Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) markets, the Scarlet & Violet – Obsidian Flames set, released in August 2023, has been under the spotlight. Despite high initial anticipation, the market value for this set has shown minimal fluctuation. The highly sought-after cards, such as the Tera Charizard ex and Pidgeot ex Special Illustration Rares, remain top-valued items.
Top Valued Cards
Here are the standout cards from the Scarlet & Violet – Obsidian Flames set, along with their market values as observed on TCGPlayer:
– Tera Charizard ex Special Illustration Rare 223/197: $43.88
– Tera Charizard ex Gold Hyper Rare 228/197: $17.27
– Pidgeot ex Special Illustration Rare 225/197: $12.13
– Ninetails Illustration Rare 199/197: $10.07
– Pidgeot ex 164/197: $9.13
– Cleffa Illustration Rare 202/197: $8.36
– Tera Charizard ex Full Art 228/197: $7.27
– Pidgeot ex Full Art 217/197: $5.53
– Gloom Illustration Rare 198/197: $4.90
– Pidgey Illustration Rare 207/197: $4.68
Market Trends and Comparisons
The Pokémon TCG market is notoriously volatile and difficult to predict. Over the past two years, a resurgence of interest has been noted, spurred by factors like the 25th Anniversary, innovative Sword & Shield Alternate Arts, influencer participation, box breaks, and the COVID-19 lockdown encouraging new hobbies. During this period, once easily accessible sets and cards became scarce commodities.
However, as the excitement gradually subsides, the current state of modern sets like Obsidian Flames is becoming clearer. This series, “Pokémon TCG Value Watch,” aims to provide collectors with insights into card availability trends, helping completionists determine optimal times to invest. Although not financial advice, it serves as a guide for enthusiasts.
Comparison with Previous Sets
The Obsidian Flames set was expected to generate significant excitement, led by the Charizard chase card. However, similar to the Sword & Shield – Darkness Ablaze set during the Galar era, it failed to maintain sustained interest. Both sets became relatively easy to complete, leading to decreased buzz. Following Darkness Ablaze, the Champion’s Path set featured two coveted Charizard chase cards, while the Obsidian Flames was succeeded by the 151 set, which included not only a major Charizard chase card but also those for all Kanto Starters.
Stay Updated
For comprehensive coverage of the Pokémon TCG, including analyses of past, present, and future sets, visit Bleeding Cool regularly. Keep up with the evolving TCG landscape and prepare for upcoming set reveals that continue to shape the hobby.