In the latest edition of Crashers and Climbers, I initially planned to explore older Pokémon TCG sets. However, the current volatility of the *Destined Rivals* set has drawn me back to reassess the latest market trends and card values. This set has seen dramatic fluctuations since its launch, making it a prime focus for collectors and traders alike.

Now is a particularly strategic time to stay informed about the secondary card market. Keeping a close eye on pricing trends and value shifts across the Pokémon TCG landscape can help you make smart purchasing or selling decisions. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a new trainer entering the scene, understanding these dynamics is key to maximizing your investment.

Team Rocket's Mewtwo ex - 213/182

0$52.34 save 52%$24.99 at [TCGPlayer]

Ethan's Ho-Oh ex - 230/182

1$202.05 save 38%$126.00 at [TCGPlayer]

Team Rocket's Houndoom - 191/182

0$38.62 save 49%$19.75 at [TCGPlayer]

Team Rocket's Meowth - 203/182

0$58.64 save 56%$26.00 at [TCGPlayer]

Shaymin - 185/182

0$46.48 save 61%$18.34 at [TCGPlayer]

Team Rocket's Mewtwo ex - 231/182

0$385.00 at [TCGPlayer]

Team Rocket's Nidoking ex - 233/182

0$87.99 at [TCGPlayer]

Misty's Lapras - 194/182

0$46.48 at [TCGPlayer]

Cynthia's Garchomp ex - 232/182

0$209.75 at [TCGPlayer]

Team Rocket's Giovanni - 238/182

0$29.99 at [TCGPlayer]

Following the initial price drops after the launch weekend, many cards have started to regain value, though not all at the same pace.值得注意的是,目前TCGPlayer平台上部分卖家定价远高于市场价，这种现象十分明显，甚至可能是人为抬高整体估值的策略。

Pokémon Card Crashers

This week, I want to highlight how certain high-quality illustration rares have become significantly more affordable compared to a few weeks ago. Let's start with Shaymin - 185/182, which was a top chase card for many at launch. This beautifully illustrated card has dropped by 56%, from $46.48 to just $18.34—making it a solid buy at this point.

Ethan's Ho-Oh ex - 230/182 was one of my top targets from *Destined Rivals*, and I'm still on the hunt. With a 38% drop from $202.05 to $126, now might be the perfect time to consider adding this card to your collection.

Team Rocket's Houndoom - 191/182 is another standout. One of the best aspects of *Destined Rivals* is its dynamic and cinematic artwork. This card, once priced around $38.62, has now dropped to $19.75—a significant discount that makes it a great value.

Team Rocket's Meowth - 203/182 perfectly encapsulates how *Destined Rivals* dares to include heartwarming moments in a set focused on a notorious villainous team. The scene of Giovanni showing affection for his Meowth is iconic and well-executed. This card has dropped by 56%, from $58.64 to $26.00—definitely worth a closer look.

While Team Rocket's Mewtwo ex - 231/182 continues to command high prices, Team Rocket's Mewtwo ex - 213/182 offers a similarly striking design at a much more accessible price point. This Ultra Rare is holding its value well and remains a solid chase card. From $52.34 at launch to around $25 now, this is a prime opportunity to acquire one before prices rise again.

Secret Art Rares from *Destined Rivals* have shown some unpredictable value trends—most dropping sharply after launch and then rebounding slightly. This pattern is similar to what we've seen with other high-end sets in the past.

Recent Crashers & Climbers Updates

• June 2: Destined Rivals is making big waves
• May 26: X and Y Promos spike, Prismatic Evolutions drops
• May 19: Salamence ex and Zekrom EX on the rise
• May 9: Sword and Shield-era cards experience a surprising boost
• May 2: Magikarp 203/193 and Pikachu ex 238/191 fall by 30%

Pokémon Card Climbers

One of the most volatile cards in the set is Team Rocket's Mewtwo ex - 231/182. It briefly reached $400, dipped, then spiked again to $460 before settling back down to $385. This kind of fluctuation is likely due to sellers testing the market. As a buyer, it's important to stay grounded and avoid overpaying—remember, the market is driven by what collectors are willing to pay.

Cynthia's Garchomp ex - 232/182 is another example of Secret Infinite Rare (SIR) volatility. While not as extreme as Mewtwo, it has also seen an increase—from $194.79 at launch to $209.75 now. This is not a great deal, so proceed with caution.

Misty's Lapras - 194/182 has seen a more gradual and reasonable increase. It started at $29.56, climbed to $34.99 last week, and is now at $46.48. Given its stunning illustration, this price rise is understandable, especially for collectors or deck builders.

Team Rocket's Nidoking ex - 233/182 has shown mixed movement. It was once listed at $118