Summary
The Pokemon TCG always delivers good-looking, quality cards;Scarlet & Violet 151continues that tradition. The set summonswaves of nostalgiafor the first time since Pokemon XY Evolutions, by highlighting the original 151 Pokemon in all their cuteness and lovability.
Because the set aims to take you on a nostalgic trip back to Kanto where the journey began, it doesn’t feature many cards that affect competitive play. Instead, the set offers new ex cards and full art cards directed more towards collectors, so take your piggy bank out, because when it comes to the best cards ‘Catching Em All’ couldend up being expensive.
10Caterpie (Illustration Rare)
Caterpie has always been a nostalgic Pokemon for many fans of the franchise. The journey to becoming a Butterfree with Ash in the anime is one of the most heartwarming and endearing stories told in the first season of the show.
The Illustration Rare card captures the innocence and curiosity of Caterpie’s personality, making it a must-have for any collector’s binder. Up against other Grass types, Caterpie also shows its fierceness, being able to deal 40 damage to opponents, resulting in it being a fairly useful basic Pokemon.
9Kadabra (Uncommon)
It’s hard to believe that Kadabra cards are incredibly rare, and considering how long the original 151 Pokemon have been around, you would be forgiven for expecting there to be more than eight different card printings of Kadabra. Seeing this iconic Pokemon finally get a new card is always a welcome sight if you’re a Kadabra fan or collector.
Unfortunately, Kadabra doesn’t get any special or alternative art prints in this set, but it does boast quite an interesting attack. You’re able to deal damage to your opponent while also switching it out for something potentially better.
8Jynx ex (Ultra Rare)
Not only can Jynx deal 120 damage to your opponent’s monsters, but it can also put them asleep. While they’re asleep, its attack ‘Heart-Stopping Kiss’ will instantly knock them out, which comes at a high energy cost but makes Jynx a powerful card.
If you’re a fan of Jynx, you’re in luck as there are two different variants of this card. The Double Rare version, which is the standard look for ex cards, as well as the full art Ultra Rare card. Both of these cards are stunning, much like the Pokemon, Jynx, and are perfect for any collection.
7Kangaskhan ex (Ultra Rare)
Not only can this Kangaskhan card allow you the opportunity to draw three cards, but its attack is extremely powerful. Although you will need to have some good luck on your side, the chance of being able to hit 400 damage in one go will easily knock out any card.
What’s so great about Kangaskhan ex in this set, is that it comes with two different card arts. One is the standard Double Rare, and accompanying it is the Full Art version, taking up the entirety of the card in this Ultra Rare variant.
6Alakazam ex (Special Illustration Rare)
Damaging your opponent’s benched monsters will force them to rethink their strategy. Alakazam ex allows you to do just that, and the more Pokemon your opponent has on their bench, the better, as its attack will do 30 more damage for each of them.
Its secondary attack isn’t less potent, as being able to attack even while benched offers itself protection while dealing significant damage to your opponent. However, it’s the Special Illustration Rare art here that steals the show, giving you an insight into the Pokemon’s determination and psychic abilities by painting a picture of it perfecting telekinesis.
5Erika’s Invitation (Special Illustration Rare)
None of the Trainer cards from this set are game-changing, but Erika’s Special Illustration Rare card stands out as you’re able to look at your opponent’s hand to determine their strategy. With this knowledge, you’re able to set up and play the perfect game, should you have the right cards and skill to do so.
The art for Erika’s Invitation highlights her love for botany, and it’s hard to not see some inspiration from the art style of Studio Ghibli with this card, which instantly makes it desirable. The colour tones coupled with how iconic of a character and Gym Leader Erika is, make this card highly sought after within the set.
4Blastoise ex (Special Illustration Rare)
Blastoise’s Special Illustration Rare version unfortunately does not have the same visual appeal as its counterparts, Venusaur and Charizard. While collectors may be a bit let down by this design choice, Blastoise remains a true powerhouse when it comes to competitive play.
Boasting an ability that allows it to tank more hits and an attack that can do anywhere between 140-280 damage, makes it a valuable addition to any Water-type deck. These durability and offensive capabilities ensure that it can hold its own against opponents.
3Venusaur ex (Special Illustration Rare)
If you’re a Venusaur fan, the Scarlet and Violet 151 set brings you three different Venusaur ex cards to add to your collection, the standard Double Rare ex, Full Art Ultra Rare, and the incredible Special Illustration Rare. While the art is a thing of pure beauty, the card’s usability isn’t too bad either.
With the ability to heal damage from one of your Pokemon, as well as deal 150 damage to your opponent’s while both confusing and poisoning it, Venusaur ex is for sure a card you’d fear going up against. The stunning art on display, the nostalgia of it being one of the three final evolution starter Pokemon and its usefulness in battle, all make this card highly desirable.
2Charizard ex (Special Illustration Rare)
Charizard gets a lot of love. It was on the receiving end of several different Special Illustration Rare’s in Obsidian Flames, and now it’s back with three new Charizard ex cards ready for you to fall in love with. The Special Illustration Rare, however, clearly takes the winner’s medal, as who wouldn’t want a card of Charizard flying over a volcano with a full moon in the background?
With high HP and powerful attacks like Brave Wing and Explosive Vortex, Charizard, as always, is a force to be reckoned with. With art work as stunning as this card, and incredible offense when in battle, it is not surprising that this card is one of the most valuable in the set.
1Mew ex (Hyper Rare)
The Hyper Rare Mew ex is by far the most gorgeous card in the entire set, and showcasing Mew in full art on a gold holofoil really highlights the Pokemon’s adorableness. you’re able to also get an etched metal version of the Hyper Rare variant in the Ultra Premium Collection.
The playability of the card is nothing to get too excited about, but it does allow you to draw up to three cards should you find yourself without any in your hand. It also allows you to utilise your opponents' moves against them, so overall, the entire set is something special and will look amazing as a master set in your binder.
