The brand-new Mega Evolution set has kicked off with an explosive debut in the US, and its individual card market is behaving quite unusually. Interestingly, many of the highly sought-after chase cards from this set are actually becoming more affordable. It appears The Pokémon Company is printing newer sets in larger quantities than ever before. While the long-term impact is yet to be fully understood, more cards in circulation generally means less strain on your wallet.
Mega Evolution’s Market Movers: Crashers and Climbers This Week
Among the most valuable cards in this set are the Gold Hyper Rares. Mega Gardevoir ex (187/132) has seen its price double compared to its initial market value, while Mega Lucario ex (188/132) launched at a premium and is currently settling at a staggering $650. But it’s not just the ultra-rares making waves; some Illustration Rares from the Mega Evolution set are also experiencing unexpected price hikes. Helioptile (143/132), for example, recently jumped by 33.6% thanks to its stunning artwork. One thing is clear: Pokémon trainers and collectors are learning to resist the fear of missing out (FOMO). Waiting for sealed products and coveted chase cards instead of buying immediately at launch can save you a lot of money, a lesson that seems to be resonating during “Pokémania 2025.” Let’s dive into the specifics:
Pokémon Card Crashers
Mega Lucario ex – 188/132 is currently available for around $650 in near-mint condition, which is nearly $70 below its current market value of $719.37. While this might seem like a modest 9.7% drop, it represents a solid saving and suggests that Gold Hyper Rare cards could stabilize at or even below the $600 mark during the Mega Evolution era of the Pokémon TCG.
In battle, Mega Brave is a powerful attack dealing 270 damage, but it comes with the drawback of not being usable on consecutive turns. This makes it a perfect last-resort move when you’re in a tight spot or need one final knockout. Personally, I’d lean towards using Mega Lucario ex for its energy recycling capabilities and for building up my bench, all while still dishing out a respectable 130 damage.
Mega Gardevoir ex – 178/132 is currently the highest-valued Secret Art Rare, sitting at approximately $313, which is slightly less than its market value of $317.08. While this isn’t a huge difference, even small dips can signal a trend of significant price corrections in the coming weeks.
Its “Overflowing Wishes” ability is fantastic for quickly attaching Psychic energy to your benched Pokémon, and the card’s artwork is simply gorgeous. This is definitely a Pokémon card that would look incredible encased in a slab or proudly displayed in a collector’s binder.
Mega Latias ex – 181/132 has a more humble valuation at $168.05, about $11 below its current market price. It appears collectors are gravitating more towards the Gold Hyper Rare cards over Secret Art Rares in this set. However, for me, the artwork on this card easily surpasses that of many Hyper Rares. It beautifully captures Mega Latias’ incredible speed and power.
Its “Strafe” move enhances this further by dealing 40 damage and allowing for a quick switch with a benched Pokémon. This is ideal for chipping away at opponent’s low-HP Pokémon early in the game. If you commit to a switching strategy, “Illusory Impulse” can discard all energy from Mega Latias to unleash a massive 300 damage when it truly matters. Pretty cool, right?
My personal favorite, Mega Venusaur ex (177/132), is experiencing a price crash, dropping approximately 6.2% to $217.97. Despite this, it remains a valuable Secret Art Rare. Mega Venusaur is also a highly playable card; its “Solar Transfer” ability lets trainers reallocate grass energy during their turn, which is incredibly useful and pairs perfectly with Meganium from the same set.
“Jungle Dump” is not only a hilariously named move but also a devastating one, dealing 240 damage and healing 30 damage from Mega Venusaur ex. That’s why I’ve always loved Venusaur—it’s a strategic powerhouse with a knack for the long game.
Mega Kangaskhan ex (182/132) SIR is also beginning its price descent, currently priced at $91.48 compared to its market value of $94.20. Kangaskhan doesn’t typically have a massive fan following, so its pricing naturally reflects this. It’s also not the most strategically playable card, largely due to its main offensive move relying on coin flips. However, its “Run Errand” ability, which allows trainers to draw two cards per turn, is a welcome bonus.
Pokémon Card Climbers
Mega Gardevoir ex – 187/132 Hyper Gold Rare is currently trading at an astonishing $600, effectively doubling its market value. While this price is undeniably high, it aligns with the other gold hyper rare in the set, which is going for $650, making it somewhat more understandable. Considering its extreme rarity, this pricing just weeks after release isn’t entirely surprising. Although its “Overflowing Wishes” and “Mega Symphonia” moves are decent, this card’s value is primarily driven by its stunning, regal appearance and sheer scarcity as a Gold Hyper Rare.
Helioptile – 143/132 is making strong gains for an Illustration Rare. Its exquisite artwork is the main attraction, and it more than justifies its impressive 50.6% climb to $8.90. It’s wise to snatch this one up before its price continues to rise; it’s still a fantastic deal for such a sought-after Illustration Rare. Since its moves aren’t particularly strong for a basic Pokémon, this price surge is purely about its visual appeal.
Mega Lucario ex (179/132) SIR is my personal top chase card from Mega Evolution, mainly because it depicts Mega Lucario and Mega Venusaur locked in battle—two of my absolute favorite Pokémon! Its value has climbed to $330, marking a 14% increase from its $289.45 market value. I have a feeling I’m not the only one desperate to add this card to my collection. While it might not be the most viable card for competitive play, despite Mega Lucario’s powerful “Mega Brave” and “Aura Jab” moveset, its appeal is purely aesthetic. The artwork here is absolutely flawless.
Bulbasaur (113/132) shines in its stunning Illustration Rare form, and there’s also a special Mega Evolution promo stamp alternative. The stamped version can be found as a bonus in upgraded booster boxes and is currently commanding about $5 more than its market value. It’s still early days for both of these cards, but given Bulbasaur’s enduring popularity and the captivating floral and psychedelic artwork, this is definitely a card to watch and consider acquiring now.
Christian Wait is a contributing freelancer for IGN, specializing in collectibles and deals. Christian brings over 7 years of experience in the Gaming and Tech industry, with published works at Mashable and Pocket-Tactics. He also creates hand-painted miniatures for Saber Miniatures and is the author of “Pokemon Ultimate Unofficial Gaming Guide by GamesWarrior.” You can connect with Christian on X @ChrisReggieWait.