Mastering the Pokémon TCG: A Comprehensive Guide to Sun & Moon Era Sets
Welcome, fellow Pokémon Trading Card Game enthusiasts! Today, we embark on a nostalgic journey through the Sun & Moon Era, a period that brought us exciting new mechanics, powerful Pokémon-GX, and captivating artwork. Join us as we explore each set released during this era, from the inception of Sun & Moon in 2017 to the climactic finale with Cosmic Eclipse in 2019.
Team Up (February 2019)
Team Up brings together iconic Pokémon duos, introducing the Tag Team GX cards. Witness the synergy between characters like Pikachu & Zekrom-GX and Eevee & Snorlax-GX as they deliver devastating attacks. This set revolutionizes the competitive landscape with its unique partnership mechanic.
Cosmic Eclipse (November 2019)
The grand finale of the Sun & Moon Era, Cosmic Eclipse, brings the curtain down with a spectacular display. With a focus on Tag Team GX Pokémon and the introduction of the character trio Tag Team Supporter cards, this set provides a fitting conclusion to an era filled with innovation and excitement.
Unified Minds (August 2019)
Explore the depths of the mind with Unified Minds, showcasing powerful Tag Team GX duos like Mewtwo & Mew-GX. This set also introduces the powerful Reset Stamp, a card that disrupts opponents’ strategies and has a lasting impact on the game.
Ultra Prism (February 2018)
Step into the Ultra Wormhole with Ultra Prism, a set that introduces the Prism Star cards and the game-changing mechanic of Prism Pokémon. Key cards include the powerful Dialga-GX and Palkia-GX, each with unique abilities that can turn the tide of battle.
Celestial Storm (August 2018)
Venture into the storm with Celestial Storm, featuring the powerful Rayquaza-GX and Blaziken-GX. This set also introduces the intriguing Prism Star Stadium cards, offering dynamic effects that shape the battlefield in unexpected ways.
Honorable mentions
Lost Thunder (November 2018): Lost Thunder introduces a myriad of Pokémon from the Johto region and beyond, with the majestic Lugia-GX leading the charge. This set also showcases the powerful Thunder Mountain Prism Star Stadium card, a game-changer for Lightning-type decks. Market Price: $611.73
Unbroken Bonds (May 2019): Unbroken Bonds continues the Tag Team GX trend, featuring powerful partnerships like Reshiram & Charizard-GX. With the addition of the powerful Dedenne-GX and Welder Supporter card, this set becomes a cornerstone for many competitive decks. Market Price: $598.45
Burning Shadows (August 2017): As shadows lengthen, Burning Shadows emerges with a dark allure. This set introduces the popular Rainbow Rare cards, featuring hyper-rare versions of sought-after Pokémon like Charizard-GX. Additionally, Burning Shadows brought the powerful and eerie Necrozma-GX to the forefront of the TCG scene. Market Price: $413.99
Forbidden Light (May 2018): The battle intensifies as Forbidden Light explores the clash between Necrozma and the Ultra Beasts. With Ultra Necrozma-GX taking center stage, this set introduces the powerful Beast Ring and Beast Energy cards, providing new strategic options for players. Market Price: $393.72
Guardians Rising (May 2017): Venture deeper into the Alola region with Guardians Rising, featuring new Pokémon and Alolan forms. Key cards include the potent Tapu Lele-GX, a staple for many decks, and the mysterious Kommo-o-GX. With vibrant artwork and competitive cards, Guardians Rising became a favorite among collectors and players alike. Market Price: $353.01
Sun & Moon Base Set (February 2017): The Sun & Moon Base Set marked the beginning of a new era, introducing Alola region Pokémon and the innovative GX mechanic. Highlights of this set include the iconic Solgaleo-GX and Lunala-GX, each with powerful GX attacks that set the stage for the era to come. Market Price: $269.40
Crimson Invasion (November 2017): The invasion begins! Crimson Invasion introduces the Ultra Beasts and further explores the dynamic between Alola and the mysterious creatures from another dimension. Notable cards include the imposing Buzzwole-GX and the elusive Silvally-GX, offering new strategies for trainers to master. Market Price: $206.65
The Sun & Moon Era leaves a lasting legacy in the Pokémon TCG, showcasing the evolution of the game with new mechanics, powerful Pokémon-GX, and captivating artwork. Whether you’re a collector or a competitive player, the sets from this era offer a treasure trove of cards that have left an indelible mark on the Pokémon TCG landscape. As we bid farewell to the Sun & Moon Era, let’s anticipate the adventures that await us in future expansions. Happy collecting, trainers!