Embarking on the quest for the ultimate Pokémon pack acquisition in 2022, it’s imperative to arm yourself with comprehensive insights and well-researched data. This scholarly discourse will provoke thought and provide valuable information on the most coveted Pokémon packs in 2022. Considered from various standpoints such as collector value, rarity, player grade, and market trends, the write-up will guide you to make optimal choices that align with your specific purposes, whether you are a dedicated collector, a strategic player, or an investment-minded individual. With this carefully curated discussion, your quest is primed to culminate in the discovery of Pokémon packs that truly complement your objectives.
Understanding the Basics of Pokemon Packs
Pokemon trading card game (TCG) packs have excited many enthusiasts since 1996. The thrill of purchasing a new pack and revealing unknown cards is unmatched and serves as the source of enjoyment for many collectors.
Pokemon TCG: An Overview
Pokemon TCG is a strategic card game that requires players to assemble a deck of cards representing various mythical creatures, trainers, and support elements. The gameplay involves deploying these cards against the opponent’s deck with the ultimate goal of knocking out the adversary Pokemon. Packs bring the exciting possibility of unveiling rare cards that augment your gameplay capability or complete your collection.
Types of Pokemon Packs
Pokemon TCG has an assortment of pack types to choose from. Standard Booster packs contain a random assortment of cards. Elite Trainer Boxes provide various game accessories in addition to a set number of Booster packs. Special collection boxes often feature exclusive cards and merchandise. Blister packs usually contain a Booster pack and an additional promotional card or coin.
Crucial Factors to Consider when Buying Pokemon Packs
Knowledge of the Pokemon TCG series and set symbols will make your purchasing decision more targeted and rewarding. Potential for profit, card availability, pack freshness, and the possibility to pull rare and coveted cards contribute to some factors for assessment.
Sword and Shield: Battle Styles Booster Box
Key Features
The Battle Styles Booster Box from the Sword and Shield series emphasises the battle style mechanic, introducing powerful Single Strike and Rapid Strike cards. It offers a whopping 183 cards to collect, including 12 Pokemon V, 16 full-art Pokemon V, six Pokemon VMAX, and 19 Trainer cards.
Pros and Cons
Battle Styles Booster Box equips trainers with new strategies, making gameplay exciting. However, the pull rates for ultra-rare cards are notably low, which might prove disappointing for some players.
Top Pokemon Cards to Look for
Rare cards such as Rapid strike Urshifu VMAX alternate art, Single strike Urshifu VMAX alternate art, and Tyranitar V alternate art are some of the gems to look out for.
Sword and Shield: Vivid Voltage Booster Box
Key Features
Vivid Voltage brings the introduction of the new “Amazing Rare” Pokemon as well as new V and VMAX cards. It is rich in card diversity with over 185 cards to amass.
Pros and Cons
Vivid Voltage boasts diverse and stunning artwork which is a delight to collectors. However, some players find that the set lacks in high-value cards, which can be a drawback for investors.
Top Pokemon Cards to Look for
Cards like Pikachu VMAX, Amazing Rare Jirachi, and Amazing Rare Rayquaza are key cards to seek.
Shining Fates Elite Trainer Box
Key Features
With over 100 cards to collect, Shining Fates offers a significant number of coveted shiny Pokemon cards and excellent pull rates.
Pros and Cons
The high shiny Pokemon count and the potential for value make it appealing. However, its steep price due to high demand can be a barrier to some collectors.
Top Pokemon Cards to Look for
Among the prominent cards, Shiny Charizard VMAX and Shiny Ditto VMAX deserve special mention.
Champion’s Path Elite Trainer Box
Key Features
The Champion’s Path Elite Trainer Box comes packed with ten TCG: Champion’s Path booster packs and a full-art promo card featuring Charizard V.
Pros and Cons
Even though the Charizard V promo card is a sure draw, the overall lack of diversity among the cards can make the pulls repetitive.
Top Pokemon Cards to Look for
Shiny Charizard V and Rainbow Rare Charizard VMAX are among the most sought-after cards in this set.
Hidden Fates Elite Trainer Box
Key Features
Known for its ‘shiny vault’, the Hidden Fates set, featuring over 75 shiny Pokemon, stands out with its premium look.
Pros and Cons
The shiny vault and inclusion of three legendary birds in one card are positively captivating yet might seem less exciting for players seeking new gameplay options.
Top Pokemon Cards to Look for
The Shiny Charizard GX and the Rainbow Birds Trio are among the most popular cards sought by collectors.
Darkness Ablaze Booster Box
Key Features
Boasting 201 cards, including 14 full-art Pokemon V cards, Darkness Ablaze packs a punch for those seeking variety and power in their decks.
Pros and Cons
Darkness Ablaze’s appeal stems from offering several strong and strategic cards. Yet, it houses fewer ultra-rare cards compared to others, proving less thrilling for treasure hunters.
Top Pokemon Cards to Look for
You have to check for Charizard VMAX, and the elusive Gold Rillaboom.
Rebel Clash Booster Box
Key Features
Rebel Clash offers an array of fresh card variants, featuring new VMAX Pokemon and a variety of full-art supporters.
Pros and Cons
Diverse and exciting Pokemon cards in this set attract the masses, though relatively lower card values might deter serious investors.
Top Pokemon Cards to Look for
Cards like Boss’s Orders and Gold Shiny Galarian Perrserker are worthwhile additions to your collection.
Tips for Buying Pokemon Packs in 2022
Planning your Budget
Mapping out a budget is crucial when contemplating purchases. High demands often drive cost-escalation in popular sets. Being financially prepared ensures you can make the most out of your investment.
Choosing the Right Retailer
Wide-ranging prices across retailers warrant careful navigation of where to buy from based on authenticity, price, and reputation.
Buying Individual Packs vs Booster Boxes
Where Booster Boxes offer voluminous card pulls, buying individual packs benefits those aiming for specific cards as individual packs typically offer a higher pull ratio of rare cards.
Future of Pokemon TCG
Potential New Releases in 2022
The Pokemon TCG community always eagerly hangs on the edge for potential new releases. While no official confirmations exist, fans suspect that new sets drawing inspiration from the recent games and updates can launch.
Trends to Look Forward to in the Pokemon Trading Card Game
The recent trend towards including more rare variants and the revival of older sets is likely to continue. Collector-friendly policies, such as guaranteed rare or holo cards in each pack, present optimistic trends in the future.
