Pokémon TCG Obsidian Flames: Is It Worth Buying?

If you’re wondering which cards from the new TCG expansion are the most valuable and in demand – read on.

We know everyone's still hyped about Pokémon 151, and we can't blame you. The set comes with some of the most beautiful and exciting cards we've seen thus far, so it’s really no surprise that almost everyone's attention is on the 151 release. But don't let Obsidian Flames fly under your radar.

While it hasn't racked up the same hype as 151, and may indeed fall under its shadow, Obsidian Flames carries many new designs worthy of a spot in the serious collector's binder. Just take a look at the crystalline Tera cards, which feature gorgeous illustrations of mosaic Pokémon. Or the Pokémon ex cards with new Energy types (a Fire-type Eiscue, anyone?), which can make for an exciting shake-up in-game.

As a side effect, many of these cards in the Obsidian Flames set haven't skyrocketed in value the way, say, a chase card from 151 has. But that doesn't mean they aren't worth collecting. In fact, Obsidian Flames packs seem to have excellent pull rates for some of the most coveted Charizard ex cards. That alone makes the set valuable.

How many cards does Pokémon Obsidian Flames have?

Obsidian Flames includes a collection of more than 200 cards. This includes three incredibly rare gold-etched Hyper Rare cards and an additional six Special Illustration Rare cards featuring both Pokémon and Support cards, which are considered the set’s chase cards.

Which Obsidian Flames pack should you get?

With Booster Boxes, Booster Bundles, and Elite Trainer Boxes available for Pokémon Obsidian Flames, it can be hard to decide which package to buy. Here’s what we think are the best options based on what you’re looking for:

Most value: Obsidian Flames Booster Box (36 booster packs)

For economic buyers: Obsidian Flames Booster Bundle (Six booster packs)

For serious collectors: Obsidian Flames Elite Trainer Box (65 card sleeves, 45 energy cards, 1 full-art foil promo card)

The 4 Most Valuable Cards in Pokémon Obsidian Flames So Far

Wanna know which Obsidian Flames cards are worth collecting? Read on to find out. 

4. Ninetales Illustration Rare

The ethereal Ninetails Illustration Rare perfectly captures the Pokémon’s unique aura. Illustrated by Sie Nanahara, this card featuring Vulpix’s final evolution uses earthy colors to emulate the Fire type’s warm energy. It’s also one of the less expensive cards in this set given, valued at 8 USD.

3. Pidgeot ex Special Illustration Rare

If you’ve been keeping up with TCG buzz, you’ve probably heard of the Pidgeot ex. This card has been creating quite the conversation with its allegedly overpowering Quick Search ability: at every turn, the player can search their deck for a specific card to put in their hand, allowing them to call on the exact card they need at that turn.

Visually, the Pidgeot ex has a unique stylized feel to it, with Pidgeot soaring over a 2D rendering of the city.

2. Charizard Ex Double Rare, Ultra Rare & Hyper Rare

There’s little debate as to Charizard’s status in the Pokémon canon. One of the most iconic characters in the franchise, Charizard cards are expected to be high-value both as a collector’s item and as a playing card. The Charizard Ex cards are no exception – both visually striking and powerful in-game, the cards feature a crystalline Charizard depicted by 5ban Graphics. The Ultra Rare and Hyper Rare variants come in silver and gold, respectively.

Its Infernal Reign ability allows the player to evolve one Pokémon during their turn, or search their deck for up to 3 Basic Fire Energy cards.

Charizard ex Double Rare, Ultra Rare, and Hyper Rare cards are currently valued at 28-35 USD.

1. Charizard Ex Special Illustration Rare

Valued at around 80 USD, the Charizard Ex Special Illustration Rare is far and away the most coveted card in the Obsidian Flames set. Having this Special Illustration Rare card in your repertoire means having a powerful fire deck in-game and a magnificent piece of art in your collection. The iconic dragon is more imposing than ever in this illustration by Akira Egawa.

Purchase Pokemon Scarlet & Violet Obsidian Flames card singles here.