Since its debut, collectors and gamers have been keenly observing Destined Rivals, with the marketplace already indicating distinct winners and losers. Illustration Rares, particularly the Rocket-era Special Illustration Rares, are rising due to nostalgia and outstanding artwork. In terms of gameplay, cards like Cynthia’s Garchomp and Ethan’s Ho-Oh are becoming more popular for competitive play, further boosting their worth.

However, not everything is experiencing growth. A number of Hyper Rares and less popular Illustration Rares are cooling down as collectors redirect their attention to the most exclusive versions. The divide between SIRs and other rarities broadens each week.

In the meantime, sealed items from Destined Rivals have surged in value merely three months after launch. Booster boxes and Pokémon Center ETBs are now at premium collector prices, prompting contemplation on whether it might be more prudent to keep them sealed or to open them.

Pokémon card gains:

– Team Rocket’s Mewtwo ex – 231/182 (SIR) — $369.37 (up 8.8%)
– Cynthia’s Garchomp ex – 232/182 (SIR) — $249 (up 29%)
– Ethan’s Ho-Oh ex – 230/182 (SIR) — $198 (up 36.6%)
– Team Rocket’s Moltres ex – 229/182 (SIR) — $169.09 (up 28.1%)
– Team Rocket’s Nidoking ex – 233/182 (SIR) — $107.91 (up 8.3%)

Team Rocket’s Mewtwo ex – 231/182 (SIR) has increased from $339.60 in August to $369.37 now, marking an 8.8% gain. Its current price matches market expectations, demonstrating significant demand. This card is already the set’s highlight, propelled by collector interest. With premium art and robust gameplay utility, it outshines the Hyper Rare.

Cynthia’s Garchomp ex – 232/182 (SIR) has made a notable leap, rising from $193 in July to $249 now (+29%). Market pricing is slightly lower, indicating some sellers may be testing the limits of demand. This card holds both collector interest and competitive viability, keeping it sought after.

Ethan’s Ho-Oh ex – 230/182 (SIR) soared from $144.95 in July to $198 now, a 36.6% rise. Its market price hints at slight overheating, yet not excessively. Featuring a usable ability and Ho-Oh’s legendary reputation, this card is on a secure upward path among the set.

Team Rocket’s Moltres ex – 229/182 (SIR) increased from $132.04 to $169.09, an impressive 28.1% gain. The market sits lower, suggesting the card may have temporarily outpaced reality. However, collectors adore the artwork and nostalgia tied to Rocket’s legendary birds, ensuring consistent demand.

Team Rocket’s Nidoking ex – 233/182 (SIR) saw a minor bump, rising from $99.59 to $107.91 (+8.3%). Its market price is nearly identical, reflecting stability. Nidoking may not be as eye-catching, but the Rocket branding and poison-centric mechanics draw interest from niche collectors.

Pokémon card declines:

– Team Rocket’s Mewtwo ex – 240/182 (Hyper Rare) — $65.58 (down 8%)
– Misty’s Psyduck – 193/182 (IR) — $51 (down 46.3%)
– Cynthia’s Garchomp ex – 241/182 (Hyper Rare) — $44.09 (down 23.8%)
– Ethan’s Typhlosion – 190/182 (IR) — $39.46 (down 5.3%)
– Yanmega ex – 228/182 (SIR) — $33.74 (down 11.6%)

Team Rocket’s Mewtwo ex – 240/182 (Hyper Rare) decreased from $71.31 to $65.58, a decline of 8%. Its market price indicates it’s still in motion, but buyers favor the SIR variant. This correction appears to be more about collectors gravitating towards premium art rather than a flaw in the card itself.

Misty’s Psyduck – 193/182 (IR) has encountered the steepest drop, falling from $94.99 in May to $51 now, a 46.3% decrease. Its market price is somewhat higher, suggesting a minor rebound could be on the horizon, though the novelty has diminished. The cute factor alone cannot uphold a card lacking in playability or lasting collector interest.

Cynthia’s Garchomp ex – 241/182 (Hyper Rare) decreased from $57.86 in July to $44.09 now, down 23.8%. Its market price aligns closely, indicating stability at this reduced level.