From Rayquaza’s lofty ascent to Mewtwo’s consistent level, the X & Y Mega Era is generating excitement among collectors as fans prepare for Pokémon Legends: Z-A and the return of Mega Evolution.
The focus is shifting back to Mega Evolution Pokémon as anticipation grows for the forthcoming New Mega Evolutions and Phantasmal Flames expansions. Collectors aren’t hesitating for new stock. They are snatching up X & Y era chase cards while they can, and prices are showing this urgency with several iconic Megas doubling or even tripling since the year’s beginning.
The most significant news is the nostalgia-driven surges on cards such as M Rayquaza EX Shiny Full Art and M Gengar EX Secret Rare, which have surged beyond their January 2025 lows as collectors rush to secure them before prices increase further. Conversely, many other Megas are leveling off, indicating a short-term plateau that makes them appealing entry points before demand skyrockets.
With some prices stabilizing and others soaring, this moment appears to be the ideal time for collectors to obtain these historic cards ahead of the Mega Evolution era’s triumphant return.
Pokémon card surges
M Rayquaza EX Shiny Full Art from Ancient Origins is the clear leader of the Mega market at this moment. Its current value is about $1,450 compared to merely $275.15 in January. This card stands not only as one of the most legendary Megas but also as one of the rarest pulls of the era. Collectors are converging, and prices have jumped more than fourfold since the year’s outset. The increase in Rayquaza’s value has initiated a ripple effect, with collectors expanding their focus to other notable Megas as well.
M Gengar EX Secret Rare from Phantom Forces has mirrored this trajectory. Presently selling for upwards of $400 compared to a January price of just below $100, it has tripled in worth this year. The copycat potential of Phantom Gate was always exciting in play, but this card’s true strength lies in its artwork and rarity. Its Secret Rare status paired with Gengar’s vast fanbase has elevated it into the limelight, highlighting how certain Pokémon with enduring popularity convert directly into collector demand.
M Rayquaza EX (Shiny Full Art)
Current price: $1,450
Market Price: $538.54
Price in January 2025: $275.15
M Gengar EX (Secret Rare)
Current price: $415
Market Price: $376.08
Price in January 2025: $90.81
M Rayquaza EX (Full Art)
Current price: $656.99
Market Price: $279.64
Price in January 2025: $164.04
M Charizard EX (X)
Current price: $349.99
Market Price: $277.94
Price in January 2025: $126.89
Primal Groudon EX (Shiny Full Art)
Current price: $349.99
Market Price: $277.94
Price in January 2025: $126.89
M Rayquaza EX Full Art from Roaring Skies has also seen a significant rise, going from approximately $160 at the beginning of the year to more than $650 today. The alternate artwork version is experiencing the same collector surge as the shiny, with nostalgia and scarcity making it one of the safest Mega acquisitions right now.
In contrast, M Charizard EX X from Flashfire has jumped from around $125 in January to about $350 today. Flashfire has always been well-known for Charizard collectors, and the Mega X version is witnessing renewed interest. Wild Blaze might be unpredictable in play, but collectors prioritize the artwork and rarity that contribute to its increase. Collectively, Rayquaza, Gengar, and Charizard are leading the Mega market in 2025.
Pokémon card declines
Not all Megas are matching the pace of these heavy hitters. Primal Groudon EX Shiny Full Art from Ancient Origins, while up from its January level, has begun to plateau compared to the genuine megastars of the format. Collector interest exists, but it is trailing behind the explosive growth of Rayquaza and Gengar. Likewise, Primal Groudon EX Omega Full Art from Primal Clash has remained steady this year. The card once held competitive relevance due to Omega Barrier, but it isn’t commanding must-have status among collectors in the same manner as Rayquaza or Charizard variants.
M Mewtwo EX Full Art from BREAKthrough presents a similar scenario. It has experienced a significant increase from earlier in the year, but its momentum has slowed when compared to the top performers. Psychic Infinity remains a cherished attack, but with numerous Mewtwo variants available, demand is diluted.
Primal Groudon EX (Omega Full Art)
Current price: $