Factor 2: Too Many Chase Cards Frequent releases with multiple rarities and endless variations dilute collector attention: The Problem: Every set features 5-10+ "chase cards" Special Illustration Rares, Alternate Arts, Full Arts, Ultra Rares per set Multiple versions of same Pokmon across concurrent releases Difficult to identify true value cards amid the noise Reduces long-term staying power of individual cards Result: Collectors spread budgets across dozens of chase cards rather than focusing demand on a few iconic pieces
The cards extreme rarity reportedly led card condition specialist PSA to refuse copies submitted for grading, apparently citing the difficulty of validating their authenticity and the manner in which they had been acquired by would-be sellers
This rendition of Celebi features the mythical Pokmon flying through a winter scene in the dark
Noble Hierarch was a multi-format must have for years in Bant-colored decks, while the printing of Ignoble Hierarch finally provided a parallel option for Jund-colored strategies
While Rayquaza GX was the card most players had their eye on when Celestial Storm released, Shrine of Punishment might be the sets true game-changer
Take the cost of the card, plus the grading cost and look at PriceCharting.com or ebay sold listings for comps on what you think the grade will be