Rebel Clash, the latest Pokemon TCG expansion, has been very influential on the standard format. Several new archetypes have been born out of the V and VMAX Pokemon combos, and this guide will show you the five best Rebel Clash decks for standard.

The decklists below aren't definitive, and are designed to give you an idea of what to put in your own builds. But of course, you can still use them as they are, since these exact lists have been dominating the standard meta.

Click the images with cards to enlarge.

Pikachu and Zekrom Tag Team

This deck is currently the biggest winner in Pokemon TCG with some exciting synergies and a few impactful new cards from the latest Rebel Clash set.

The basis of the list consists of Dedenne-GX, which draws you six cards when played; and Pikachu & Zekrom-GX, which fetches energy cards and deals with opponent's benched Pokemon.

The new additions to the deck are Boltund V, another energy fetcher and potentially a massive damage dealer; and Eldegoss V, which brings back important supporter cards from your discard pile.

Lightning energy plays a big role in this deck, and that's why there are 10 pieces of basic lightning energy cards and four copies of Speed Lightning Energy, which also draws you cards.

The most important supporter card in the list is the brand-new Boss's Orders, which switches benched Pokemon with active ones. This disrupts the opponent's gameplan and puts you in a clear advantage of the match-up.

Dragapult

This new archetype is based on the new evolution pair of Pokemon from Rebel Clash expansion: Dragapult V and Dragapult VMAX.

On its own Dragapult V isn't terribly dangerous, but if it evolves into the VMAX form, then you can distribute five damage counters on the opponent's benched Pokemon as you prefer. This will prompt your opponent to take a defensive position.

Horror Psychic Energy can help produce even more damage counters on opponent's Pokemon, including the active ones, which will further assert your dominance in the given match-up.

In case your Dragapult VMAX becomes threatened, you can use Scoop Up Net, a new supporter card, to bring him back into your hand and save the day.

Rillaboom

Another evolution Pokemon from Rebel Clash has a surprising breakthrough in this meta. Rillaboom V and Rillaboom VMAX are quite incredible, as it turns out.

The basic form of Rillaboom has a devastating 220 damage attack called Wood Hammer, which is unusual for a basic Pokemon card. When it evolves into the VMAX card, it gains a huge boost to its HP and has an ability to grow its attack by discarding grass energy.

Speaking of grass energy: this Rillaboom deck has a new Turffield Stadium card from Rebel Clash that fetches grass energy from your deck, which makes the combo so easy to execute.

Toxtricity

Poison effect is the star of this decklist, which focuses on three cards from Rebel Clash: Toxtricity V, Toxtricity VMAX, and Garbodor.

Toxtricity V must first poison an opponent's active Pokemon, and then it can hit for 180 points of damage using the Electric Riot ability.

This gets even better when evolved into VMAX, in which case Toxtricity deals 240 damage, which is more than enough to knockout almost any basic Pokemon and get a prize or two.

Garbodor helps this evolution team to set up these devastating beats using its Poisonous Puddle ability, which inflicts poison status effect on opponent's active Pokemon.

Cinderace

The current standard format wouldn't be complete without some kind of the Welder deck. Cinderace V and Cinderace VMAX fully embrace the power of Welder and fire energy in this meta.

Here you want to get to the VMAX evolution as quickly as possible and allow your opponent to attack your Cinderace with as much power as they can. Cinderace VMAX has a massive 320 HP pool, and soaks up all the damage dealt. Then, it uses all that extra damage and fights back.

This is definitely a very unusual approach to a Welder deck, but it works. That's why it is currently one of the top-tier decks in Pokemon TCG standard.

• 11 Most Expensive Rebel Clash Cards
• 15 Best Rebel Clash Cards
• Best Sword and Shield Decks for Standard Meta
• 15 Most Expensive Sword and Shield Cards
• 15 Best Sword and Shield Cards

That's it on the best Rebel Clash decks for standard, and check out more Pokemon TCG guides right here.

Boss's Orders (Hyper Rare)

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• Current price: $39.99
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This is the type of card that will be played in almost every single deck in standard format. You will see at least two — or even three — copies of Boss's Orders in each deck. It's just that good. 

This makes it the most sought out supporter card from the Rebel Clash, which naturally hypes up the market price. The foil hyper-rare print is especially valuable, as it now stands at around $40.

It's not the most expensive standard card in history, but it will keep this price for quite some time, which is especially important for investors.

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These were the most expensive cards in the latest Pokemon TCG expansion Rebel Clash. Be sure to check out other Pokemon articles and lists right here.

Frosmoth (Secret Rare)

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• Current price: $35.00
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Currently, there are two big decks that play Frosmoth. One is a combo deck that utilizes synergy with Lapras VMAX, and the other one is a spread list that combines Frosmoth with Eiscue.

Both of these deck have been doing really well since the release of Rebel Clash due to Frosmoth's Ice Dance ability, which puts into play water energy as many times as you need.

All these factors make up a rather high price tag for this non-V and non-VMAX card, which is unusual, but not surprising when you consider the power level of the combos.

Dragapult VMAX

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• Current price: $26.99
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This VMAX Pokemon has become the central pillar of one of the strongest new decks in the Rebel Clash meta.

It utilizes the power of Horror Psychic Energy, Scoop Up Net, and Dragapult's own ability Max Phantom. Many players have also been running Giant Bomb alongside in order to get the most damage out of energy cards.

In any case, Dragapult VMAX is the clear winner of the meta, and it has all the strong indicators of a card that may go up in price as soon as pro players will get the gist of just how strong this VMAX Pokemon is in the right list.

Eldegoss V (Full Art)

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• Current price: $22.63
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For a V-type Pokemon, Eldegoss has rather low HP, but it didn't prevent it from becoming the best grass support Pokemon in the game.

Most decks will not be dependant on it, but it will play its role while sitting on the bench and returning discarded supporter cards to your hand. It's not a game-breaking ability, but a very useful one.

The price range for Eldegoss V has already been set at around $20, which is exactly where it should be: not too expensive, but not too cheap.

Galarian Perrserker (Secret Rare)

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• Current price: $19.99
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The primary draw of Galarian Perrserker is its ability to add more damage to all your metal-type Pokemon.

This means that it can be used in top-tier decks like Zacian V, Melmetal GX, and Metal Saucer. However, since metal decks haven't been too upfront lately, this makes market investors a bit cautious, which does keep the price tag at the reasonably low levels.

The future of this card depends on how well the metal decks will do this season. If things go really well, then expect an inevitable price increase, and if the decks based off Galarian Perrserker's damage don't find a place in the meta, then it should drop to about $10.

Scoop Up Net (Secret Rare)

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• Current price: $19.99
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This is a prime item card in Rebel Clash. Scoop Up Net will see play in every single deck that runs non-V and non-GX cards.

Players that run Blacephalon or Jirachi Prism combo decks will definitely have a blast playing Scoop Up Net. This not only implies the obvious "return to hand in order to heal," but also a few other tricks that require you to scoop out Pokemon from the active spot.

The current price is as high as it goes for item cards, so even if this does as well as expected, you should still wait before the price settles at a slightly lower margin.

Sonia (Hyper Rare)

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• Current price: $18.99
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Sonia is the current replacement for Roseanne's Research, which has rotated out of the standard format. This supporter card fills in the niche pretty nicely, although not quite a well.

However, since there is nothing similar in the format, which can fetch basic Pokemon or energy cards, Sonia does become very valuable until something else comes out in the next expansions.

If you want to invest in Sonia, then do it now. The price situation may change as soon something better appears in the format, which probably won't take too long.

Toxtricity VMAX (Hyper Rare)

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• Current price: $15.34
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When you combine poison with lightning, something really dangerous comes out. That's basically a Toxtricity's profile in one sentence.

Many players have been combining Txotricity VMAX with Garbodor to incredible effect, which delivers a lot of damage. So, if you like KO-ing your opponent's Pokemon, then this is the card for you.

However, one specialized deck does guarantee a high-market profile for Toxtricity VMAX, so it's currently holding a slightly lower position in comparison to other more prominent VMAX cards from Rebel Clash.

Although $15 for a hyper-rare card isn't much, the power level of this beast will be proven in the upcoming tournaments for sure.

Tool Scrapper (Secret Rare)

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• Current price: $14.47
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Many decks in standard have been implementing tool cards for quite some time now. That's because there is no way of removing them from the board.

But with the arrival of a Tool Scrapper card in Rebel Clash, that might be a thing of the past. Every single player will have Tool Scrapper in their lists, so they can get rid of all the opponent's tools in play.

This is a game-changing card that has arrived at the right moment, and it seems that the $15 tag on this secret rare print of the card is only the beginning.

Dragapult V (Full Art)

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• Current price: $14.18
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If you're planning on playing the new evolution Dragapult VMAX deck in standard, then you simply cannot skip this basic version of Dragapult V.

It's obviously not as strong as the VMAX evolution, but you absolutely need it for your combo. That is why the Dragapult V basic version will always follow its elder VMAX brother like a shadow.

This is an excellent marketing solution from The Pokemon Company, which basically makes you buy or sell two cards instead of one. This brings up the price on both, since nobody's going to play the basic V version on its own.

Twin Energy (Secret Rare)

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• Current price: $11.99
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The Double Colorless Energy card won't be back in standard Pokemon TCG any time soon. But The Pokemon Company gave us the new Twin Energy, which is kind of similar, albeit with a few restrictions for GX and V Pokemon.

With that said, there is no doubt that Twin Energy will transform the standard meta and make most decks really powerful. The energy accelerators have always been very effective in any expansion, and this one is no exception.

As for the market price, then it seems that there is still more room to grow, so keep your eyes open for this little gem of a card.

There has been a lot of talk regarding the new supporter rule in Pokemon TCG, which arrived with the game's previous expansion, Sword and Shield. The new set, Rebel Clash, continues with the same themes and includes more supporters and VMAX Pokemon.

Dragapult is currently considered the most overpowered VMAX Pokemon in the game, and it has a solid standing on the market, including its initial Dragapult V basic form.

There are also some exciting energy and removal cards, so if you're looking to invest this season in Pokemon TCG, then check out this guide to the most expensive Rebel Clash cards.

Spiritomb

Spiritbomb is a new player in the infamous ADP Zacian deck. It can potentially deal a lot of damage with the help of five counters in combination with Hustle Belt and Altered Creation GX.

If you manage to attach Big Charm to it, then the damage will rise up to 280 points, which is bonkers good.

That is a huge swing for a one-prize attacker such as Spiritomb. So don't look past its hidden potential.

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These were the best cards in the latest Pokemon TCG expansion Rebel Clash. For more, be sure to check out other Pokemon articles right here.

Sonia

Evolution decks that want to go second will find Sonia an incredibly useful supporter card.

This one will peform well regardless of the stage you're in, as it functions similarly to Roseanne's Research from Secret Wonders set, which happened to be a universal search supporter.

But of course, playing it as early as possible is much better, especially if you're playing a combo deck.

Galarian Weezing

Ability lockers are some of the most dreaded cards in Pokemon TCG. Galarian Weezing is a new foe that many decks will hate playing against, especially the much-hyped ADP Zacian.

Galarian Weezing can shut off Zacian's Intrepid Sword ability using its Neutralizing Gas ability, which will make the Zacian player suddenly feel naked.

Severe Poison option is also quite good, as it can put four damage counters on any active Pokemon.

Galar Mine

This is a somewhat upgraded version of Team Aqua's Secret Base from the Double Crisis set.

It will be a nice addition to Cinccino decks by using Boss's Orders that can put some Pokemon into active spot and then stall them.

But there are other ways of utilizing it. For example, Krookodile decks can really make it useful with all their energy acceleration techniques. It's just a great way to make your opponent overcompensate on each active Pokemon in play.

Horror Psychic Energy

Psychic decks will embrace this card, and with the help of Spell Tag, this will be able to put up six damage counters instead of two. You can also spread this damage as you wish, which is a fantastic tool to have.

Horror Psychic Energy will see play in Malamar and Mew3 decks. This card will definitely be an excellent addition to their bag of tricks.

Speed Lightning Energy

All types of energy cards are valuable in any format. Many top-tier decks also use lightning energy, and now they can draw two extra cards with the help of Speed Lightning Energy, which is surprisingly strong.

This card will see play in Turbo PikaRom and Toxtricity VMAX lists. It's certain that all lightning-based decks would want several copies of this in their main lists.

Scoop Up Net

Obviously, this highly-specialized item card will not see play in V- or GX-based decks. However, all other archetypes will definitely find this useful, such as Galarian Zigzagoon and Inteleon with Shady Dealings.

It also works great with Shaymin EX, Ultra Necrozma, which can now avoid Shock Lock with the help of Scoop Up Net, and Wall/Stall players will absolutely love this card as well.

Cinderace VMAX

The counter-attack here really sells Cinderace VMAX. You can take damage, then heal, and still deal 30 plus the amount it was damaged for.

The second attack can KO Zacian V, and that is something one should never overlook — and it costs only 3 energy.

Since fire energy gets a lot of support in Rebel Clash, it makes Cinderace VMAX one of the best VMAX Pokemon in the new set.

Inteleon VMAX

This little monster is the real deal when it comes to damage. For just 1 energy, it can deal 60 points of damage. Inteleon VMAX can easily KO any of the evolving basic Pokemon.

For 3 energy, it deals 160 points of damage, which is not groundbreaking, but still incredibly strong.

Besides the damage potential it has a lot of HP, which makes Inteleon VMAX an all-round great card.

Twin Energy

Just like Counter Energy from Crimson Invasion, this card was made to balance out all non-V and non-GX Pokemon.

This means that The Pokemon Company is really pushing overwhelmingly strong decks like Welder out of the meta, without even mentioning the latest supporter ruling.

Twin Energy will play a crucial role in balancing out the standard meta by opening doors to more creative decks.

Tool Scrapper

Tool Scrapper is a reprint of a highly valuable item card from the Dragons Exalted expansion. Many players wanted this card to return, and here it is.

There are some obnoxiously powerful tool cards in the meta right now, so it's a relief to finally see a solid tool removal in the meta. Decks that run Air Ballon and various amulet tool cards will finally meet their nemesis in the form of Tool Scrapper.

Toxtricity VMAX

This Pokemon's G-Max Riot ability is asking to be played alongside any poisoning effect. There are two such cards in standard right now: Koga's Trap and Garbodor. Koga's Trap is a supporter from the Unbroken Bonds expansion, which not only poisons an opponent's active Pokemon but also confuses them.

There is also Garbodor from Rebel Clash that can inflict poison, but since there is a lot of support for supporter type cards, it looks like players will mostly team up Toxtricity VMAX with Koga's Trap after all.

Boss's Orders

Speaking of supporter cards, the best supporter in Rebel Clash is clearly Boss's Orders. This is actually a functional reprint of the Lysandre card from the Flashfire expansion, and just like Lysandre, this card will be played until it rotates out.

It's also interesting to note that veteran players call the effect of Boss's Orders "gusting," which originates from the Gust of Wind card that was printed way back in the Base Set.

Eldegoss V

This fluffy Pokemon is very similar to one of the most powerful cards from the Guardians Rising expansion: Tapu Lele GX. Just like Tapu Lele, this Pokemon is searching for supporter cards, but instead of looking through your deck, it brings back supporters from your discard pile using the Happy Match ability.

This is definitely going to be a new staple V card in the Rebel Clash meta, as supporter recovery effects have always been extensively used throughout archetypes.

Dragapult VMAX

The new and evolved Dragapult VMAX is going to be a serious threat this season. It's a psychic Pokemon that has Max Phantom ability, which spreads five damage counters across the opponent's benched Pokemon.

Spread damage has always been super powerful in many top-tier decks, but this looks like the best spread-damage Pokemon yet.

Also, it has a massive HP pool and enough attack power to deal with almost any kind of threat on the table.

After the huge success that was the Sword and Shield expansion, The Pokemon Company's Pokemon TCG has a brand-new follow-up: Rebel Clash.

The new set consists of 209 cards, which include Generation VIII, Pokemon V, and Pokemon VMAX cards. Rebel Clash features new Pokemon like Rillaboom, Cinderace, and Inteleon from the Galar region.

These Pokemon come in basic V forms, which can evolve into VMAX Pokemon that are some of the most overpowered cards yet.

This guide showcases 15 of the best Rebel Clash cards, including Pokemon and supporter and energy cards.

The Sword and Shield set for the Pokemon Trading Card Game is out in the West. The tournaments to come will decide which of the new archetypes rise above the rest. But until that happens, it's worth taking a look at the best Sword and Shield decks for the standard meta.

Below, we look at three highly-competitive lists that can be used as-is or with a few personal tweaks that might fit your playstyle better. To help you figure that out faster, we cover the best trainers and the most favorable matchups for each list.

ADP Zacian Deck

Zacian V is undoubtedly the crown jewel of the latest Sword and Shield set. Combined with Arceus & Dialga & Palkia GX from Cosmic Eclipse, it stands as one of the most powerful decks in standard right now.

This deck focuses KOs with Zacian V, after setting up Intrepid Sword with ADP, thus increasing damage.

Best Trainers

Zacian V doesn't require that many Pokemon to be successful. Outside of ADP and Zacian, you will only need Jirachi to search for Trainer cards, which are integral for this deck. 

These are the most crucial trainers for getting your Pokemon combo pieces and attaching energy for maximum damage:

• Metal Saucer
• Quick Ball
• Switch
• Tag Call
• Marnie
• Professor's Research
• Aurora Energy

Decklist

Here is one of the possible lists that you may change according to cards that are available to you:

Click to enlarge

Favorable Match-ups

The ADP Zacian archetype is good against almost every list in the Standard meta, including:

• MakeDoMill
• PikaRom
• WelderMew3
• Goons

The only deck that could pose a threat is the AB Zard archetype. That's because it can deactivate Zacian, your only active Pokemon. 

PikaRom Deck

Like ADP Zacian, this is another energy-based deck. However, it is a bit slower than ADP Zacian, which can go off on turn two if all the combo pieces are in place. 

Pikachu and Zekrom GX are now capable of doing something similar with the help of the new Tapu Koko V card from Sword and Shield.

Using the Full Blitz ability, it can KO any opponent in two turns and even slow down the entire set-up of ADP Zacian and other decks.

Best Trainers

Since this deck relies more on Energy than combo pieces like ADP Zacian, it requires slightly different Trainer cards:

• Volkner
• Electromagnetic Radar
• Quick Ball
• Energy Switch
• Electropower
• Professor's Research

Decklist

Many players opt for more Pokemon cards in this deck besides Pikachu and Zekrom, including Zapdos and Dedenne.

Click to enlarge

Favorable Match-ups

PikaRom can easily deal with slow decks or decks that set up their combos through a series of moves. Its sheer speed means it can beat:

• BlownsGX
• MallyMew3
• LucMetal-Z

Cinccino Mill Deck

Every mill deck wants to burn through your opponent's deck as fast as possible, and this Cinccino build for Sword and Shield meta is just incredibly good.

This deck relies on Cinccino's Make Do ability that allows you to quickly draw all the tools for quickly milling your opponent, such as Bellelba and Brycen-Man.

Magcargo GX and Lillie's Poke Doll can help accelerate this process, and soon your opponent will be left with zero cards in their deck, which automatically makes you a winner.

Best Trainers

Most of the trainers in this deck focus on milling, but you can also pick up some other cards that may fit your own build. Here are the main Trainer cards you need for this build to work:

• Bellelba and Brycen-Man
• Lt. Surge's Strategy
• Crushing Hammer
• Lillie's Poke Doll

The rest is up to you, but don't neglect the draw power of Quick Call and Tag Call cards.

Decklist

Most players are more inclined towards the list presented below, but many other players like to switch a few cards for Stealthy Hood, Team Yell Grunt, and Mallow and Lana.

Click to enlarge

Favorable Match-ups

This deck is a beast and can mill even the most potent decks, such as:

• PikaRom
• Goons
• WelderMew3
• BabyBlowns

But it can easily lose to ADP Zacian due to its fast nature and AB Zard for its disruption techniques.

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That's it for the best Sword and Shield decks for standard meta, and check out more Pokemon TCG guides in the list below:

• 15 Best Sword and Shield Cards
• 15 Most Expensive Sword and Shield Cards

Zacian V (Secret Rare)

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• Current price: $69.99
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Zacian V and ADP GX deck is currently one of the most broken things in standard format. The Intrepid Sword ability on Zacian V allows you to search for energy and attach it to your Pokemon immediately.

This kind of gameplan makes it perfect against other top-tier decks like Lapras V-max and Pikarom.

Also, this card is completely sold out in most shops, so have fun searching for it on auctions at some really high prices. But it's worth every penny!

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These were the most expensive cards in the latest Pokemon TCG expansion Sword and Shield. Be sure to check out other Pokemon articles and lists right here.

Marnie (Hyper Rare)

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• Current price: $59.99
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Disruption is one of the most effective methods to win games. Marnie is that kind of tool, which allows you to change the course of the entire game by simply changing all cards in your opponent's hand.

This can be extremely useful on turn-one, especially against all the combo decks that try to win as early as possible.

Also, it can be a great tool for making your own hand look better if you use a combo deck that requires specific cards be played together.

Quick Ball (Secret Rare)

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• Current price: $59.99
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Evolution decks may now have a long-deserved resurgence due to this one little item card. Quick Ball is a brand-new Pokemon search card that can become the pillar of so many decks in standard right now.

You will see it in Pikarom, Blacephalon, Sableye and Obstagoon decks, and so many others. It's going to be literally everywhere.

This means that Quick Ball will be well supported by market demand, which will drive the prices higher and higher.

Professor's Research (Hyper Rare)

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• Current price: $52.99
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Currently, this is the most important draw card in the entire Sword and Shield expansion.

It can draw you seven new cards and completely obliterate all of your opponent's hopes for victory. That makes this card the most valuable card in any deck even with the new supporter restriction ruling.

This hyper-rare version already breaks price records for any draw-type card, so be sure to get it while the bidding war hasn't yet gotten out of hand.

Zamazenta V (Secret Rare)

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• Current price: $34.99
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What makes Zamazenta V really special is its Dauntless Shield ability, which makes it virtually immune to the attacks of the V-max Pokemon.

This is a big deal because there are so many V-max Pokemon in the meta right now. You see them almost in every single competitive deck.

Zamazenta V will surely be played at least as a single copy, just to hold off those V-max cards that can hit way too hard at times.

Lapras V-max (Hyper Rare)

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• Current price: $24.99
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It has been evident for some time that water energy decks will have a blast this season. Lapras V-max Pokemon is proof of that, as it is now doing the rounds in the Rain Dance archetype with Frosmoth.

This list beats such powerful decks as MewMew Malamar and Pikarom. The reason is in the ever-increasing damage of the G-Max Pump ability on Lapras V-max.

The ordinary print costs around $10 to $12, but the hyper-rare print could go as high as $30 this season.

Metal Saucer (Secret Rare)

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• Current price: $21.99
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Metal energy is going to be quite influential in this season's metagame. Metal Saucer will provide players with some extra energy without any drawbacks, which will encourage players to include it automatically into every metal deck.

But since it's not a universal type that could support all kinds of energy, it will most likely stay in the given price range. If it shows weaker results, then it's price will fall, but the secret rarity might save it from going too low.

Morpeko V-max (Hyper Rare)

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• Current price: $20.99
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Morpeko V-max is not only adorable, but it also spreads damage. It also hits and runs. That is why it's getting so much love in the meta right now.

It evolves from a Lightning-type Pokemon Morpeko V, which is now firmly based in the Doll Stall archetype alongside Lillie's Poke Doll card.

This deck is already considered the most busted deck in standard, so it looks like $20 is the going rate ... for now.

Snorlax V-max (Hyper Rare)

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• Current price: $19.99
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This massive Snorlax Pokemon has the highest amount of health among all of the new Pokemon in the Sword and Shield set.

It also has a very important G-Max Fall ability that allows it to deal a lot of damage. Snorlax V-max can be well combined with Porygon Z to counter Cinderace decks.

Taking all of this into account will turn Snorlax into one of the hardest-to-beat Pokemon in the meta right now.

Stonjourner V-max (Hyper Rare)

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• Current price: $17.99
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This V-max Pokemon turned out to be unexpectedly awesome, and it is now a part of the Great Wall archetype, which is really great against Zacian and Polteageist decks.

This will definitely keep Stonjourner V-max on the top-tier shelf and will be one of the most sought out cards. The current price may easily go up if it shows excellent results during its competitive run.

Air Balloon (Secret Rare)

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• Current price: $16.99
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This tool card allows you to save energy while letting your own Pokemon retreat. It may not look like a big deal at first, but when you start saving two energy each time you do it, the effect becomes infectious.

Air Balloon is now rightfully considered a staple card for all energy-based decks, so it shouldn't come off as a surprise that it currently holds such high pricing for a basic tool card.

Bede (Hyper Rare)

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• Current price: $15.99
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Bede makes his first appearance in the Pokemon TCG in the Sword and Shield set. This is a unversal card that works with all basic types of energy and attaches them to one of your basic Pokemon.

It's a great card, as it allows you to attack with a GX Pokemon on the first turn in a Zacian V- and ADP-combo deck. Of course, it's hard to pull off, taking into account the supporter restriction on Bede, but it can still be done.

Ordinary Rod (Secret Rare)

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• Current price: $14.99
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This is a card that will be played in almost every deck in the standard format.

It fetches Pokemon and energy cards from the discard pile and throws them back into your deck. Since there are several very strong discard archetypes in the meta right now, this should be a big hit.

The price on this amazing rare version should go up as soon as official tournaments start rolling.

Team Yell Grunt (Hyper Rare)

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• Current price: $12.99
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Team Yell Grunt catches an eye not only for its ability as a supporter card, but also for its funky artwork.

It was first released as a part of V Starter Sets, which also gives it a tad bit of exclusivity. So expect this to see a lot of play in all the decks that look to counter energy archetypes.

For now, the price is pretty steep for a supporter card, but that doesn't mean that it won't go down.

Sableye V (Full Art)

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• Current price: $9.99
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This Darkness-type Pokemon is now a part of the widely popular Sableye V and Obstagoon deck, which is considered the best spread deck in the current meta.

This deck works especially well against Pikarom and Water Box archetypes. The main advantage of the Sableye V deck is that it gets all trainers back and delivers huge amounts of damage.

The art is quite different from the regular print and costs twice as much,  although don't expect it to go any higher in the meantime.

Who would've thought that dogs with swords would dominate the entire standard meta of Pokemon TCG. Well, the latest expansion, Sword and Shield, based on the divisive Switch game, introduces a set of new evolution Pokemon cards that are not only incredibly powerful but also super expensive.

Cards like Zacian V, Zamazenta V, and Lapras V-max make up the majority of the market share of the Pokemon trading card game. It's not hard to predict where the meta will go this season, so it's time to take a look at some of the most investment-friendly cards from the new set.

Hyper Potion

This is a very powerful healing potion that will definitely enjoy several spots in energy-based decks of any kind.

It's a universal tool for bringing your Pokemon back to normal and helping them withstand the big damage-dealers present in the meta right now.

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These were the best cards in the latest Pokemon TCG expansion Sword and Shield. Are there others you would add to the list? Let us know in the comments below.

For more, be sure to check out other Pokemon articles right here.

Lapras V-max

This is another fantastic water Pokemon that can do a lot of damage with the help of Frosmoth. You can use Frosmoth's Ice Dance ability and pump up Lapras to at least 120 damage per turn.

Another huge advantage of Lapras is its massive 320-HP health pool, which is more than enough to survive any attack these days.

Snorlax V-max

The best part about the new Snorlax is that it allows you to accelerate energy without the use of Welder.

You can use Porygon-Z to get back recycled energy before attaching it. This simple move allows you to retreat and heal Snorlax with Hyper Potion, return energy to your hand, and attach it once again.

The combo runs so smooth that your opponents won't even know what's happening.

Morpeko V

Morpeko is not a unique card by any means, as there have already been similar cards in the past, such as Sawsbuck and Hitmonchan. But this Pokemon simply has more damage — and that's why it's strictly better.

You can easily combine it with Lillie's Poke Doll and prevent any damage to Morpeko V from your opponent's attacks. This simple trick has been used well in the past, and now it has become even stronger.

Cinccino

This cute Evolution Pokemon has the same ability as Zoroark GX. You're basically trading one useless card for two new draws each turn.

It is also more balanced than Zoroark (which could also be a primary attacker). Cinccino will mostly play a supporting role. Still, it can be one of your best benched Pokemon of the bunch. 

Victini V

This Basic Pokemon has a similar attack pattern to Gardevoir GX, which is a big power creep.

Since Welder is still in the standard format, making Victini V broken will not be hard in any fire energy deck.

With a proper setup, Victini V could one-shot Reshizard with the help of four energy and double Welder. That's not something you see every day.

Sableye V

The Lode Search ability on Sableye V is pretty good, but Crazy Claws is the real deal.

Combine it with Obstagoon, which is an Evolution Pokemon and can be easily searched for by the Evolution Incense. Obstagoon's ability allows you to put 3 damage counters on one of your opponent's Pokemon.

Since Crazy Claws gets 60 more damage for each damage counter, Sableye's attack will quickly grow to 190, which is super strong.

Evolution Incense

Apart from Quick Ball, this is one of the best Pokemon search cards, and there is no discard requirement.

However, as the title of the card suggests, it can only search for Evolution Pokemon, while Quick Ball can search for any Basic Pokemon, which is far more useful.

Frosmoth

On its own, Frosmoth won't do much. But with a good partner card, it can be a real force to reckon with.

Play it with Quagsire or Lapras V, drop the water-energy onto Quagsire, and move it to any other Pokemon that is ready to attack for some extra water damage.

In general, almost any water deck would want Frosmoth in it. It's just an excellent way of distributing that extra energy.

Oranguru

This card is all about its Primate Wisdom ability and the way it interacts with other new cards in the Sword and Shield set.

For example, it lets you preserve cards like Custom Catcher before using Professor’s Research. You can also use it with Zacian V to guarantee at least one metal energy card.

Aurora Energy

This card is the perfect companion piece to Zacian V. It brings about all of the energy cards it can find and attaches them without forcing you to discard.

Zacian decks aren't the only ones where Aurora Energy will shine, as it is an incredibly versatile card that provides any type of energy.

Marnie

Marnie is a double-edged sword. Though Marnie can quickly turn a good hand into a bad one for your opponent, it can do the same for you. When played, you draw 5 cards and your opponent draws 4. The rub is that you both have to put your previous hand at the bottom of the deck. 

However, tricky or not, this is still a very playable card that will bring an element of surprise to many match-ups.

Zacian V

With 220 HP and 230 attack power, this is the card that will most likely define the standard meta for the next few months. 

Special attention should be paid to this card's Intrepid Sword ability, which, to put it lightly, is broken. It not only allows you to search for cards, but it also allows you to attach any number of metal energy to Zacian you find in the process.

Professor's Research

This is a powerful card, especially if your hand is empty. It lets you draw seven cards, though it doesn't allow you to play more than one Supporter card before you attack.

For most decks, such a handicap won't be a problem. However, there are some archetypes that will find this restriction annoying.

In any case, this is a fantastic new card that resembles the days of Sycamore and Juniper, which are long-gone from Standard.

Quick Ball

Quick Ball is the best new Pokemon search card. It is simple and effective, and it only requires a single card be discarded from your hand. Quick Ball is especially great with cards like Dedennes and effects like ETB. 

This is the second version of a similar card from the Majestic Dawn set. However, that card had a different ruling that now seems a bit underwhelming when compared to this one.

The new Pokemon TCG set, Sword and Shield, is out. It not only marks the release of 202 new cards, but it also introduces two new rules. Players that go first will not be able to play Supporter cards on their first turn, and only one Supporter card can be played a turn.

This obviously creates a lot of restrictions for many decks, but it also relieves a lot of pressure from the overpowered combos that have recently emerged. 

Regardless of the changes, here are 15 of the best new Pokemon cards from Sword and Shield that should help you update staple decks or create completely new ones.

Solgaleo & Lunala GX (Hyper Rare)

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• Current price: $19.00
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If you can get a good Psychic acceleration, then you can easily use the attack ability for those devastating 230 points of damage. The GX ability makes all your Pokemon immune for a turn, which can help you set up some exciting win conditions.

You can also use Switch effects to nullify the Cosmic Burn restriction that doesn't let you attack every turn. So switch Solgaleo & Lunala GX from active to bench, and then bring it back for another devastating attack.

Lastly, the price doesn't bite too hard for such a fabulous rainbow rare, and may even go down a little bit in the next month or so.

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These were the most expensive cards in the latest Pokemon TCG expansion Cosmic Eclipse, and be sure to check out other Pokemon articles right here.

Mega Lopunny & Jigglypuff GX (Hyper Rare)

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• Current price: $20.05
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Here is the most exciting low key Tag Team card in Cosmic Eclipse. It could work in Archie's Blastoise deck, but that is not the only archetype, where it can show all of its potential.

With the help of Welder the attack ability of Mega Lopunny & Jigglypuff GX is totally worth it. It also synergizes with Mewtwo decks and could be easily fetched with the help of Tag Call in Reshizard deck, which automatically keeps red decks on top tier shelf for another three months.

As you see, the flexibility is written all over this Tag Team card, which explains the great demand for it on the market.

Arceus & Dialga & Palkia GX

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• Current price: $20.69
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This Tag Team card consists of three characters: Arceys, Dialga, and Palkia. This means that Water and Steel support is now a fully viable option and seems really strong.

If you can get any good acceleration for Water and Metal energy in your deck, then you could build your whole deck around this card.

Many attack abilities wane in comparison to Arceus & Dialga & Palkia GX's attack ability. Also, this card can be searched by Treasure, which is a huge plus.

Altered Creation GX ability means that you can potentially snipe Dedenne with Venom Shot and go on to win the game. So this looks really strong no matter how you look at it, which should definitely settle the price somewhat higher.

Silvally GX (Hyper Rare)

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• Current price: $21.22
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This GX card basically has the Octillery ability, which has always been very strong. Now it has a great enemy in the face of Power Plant, but that is a small price to pay for generally a very powerful card.

The main attack may seem a bit expensive, but when you're taking a one-hit knock out with Reshiram and Charizard GX, which scores you three Prizes, then it becomes clear why it's got such high price.

On top of that you got a rainbow polish, which looks dazzling, and hyper rarity that seems to be the coolest thing this season. So pick it up right now, as soon this card will definitely go up in price.

Cynthia & Caitlin (Full Art)

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• Current price: $23.49
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There is a deep lore connected to the story how Cynthia and Caitlin have come to be on one card. More than that, it's a Tag Team that draws you three more cards after you discard a card.

This is such a strong Supporter that many have been wondering if it isn't too strong. In any case the price hasn't gone up too much lately, but there is a big chance that pretty soon this will be one of the most expensive full art cards in Cosmic Eclipse.

Power Plant (Secret Rare)

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• Current price: $28.77
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GX and EX archetypes will have a wild run this season, which is why Power Plant is such a valuable card. It's basically an insurance policy against any abilities your opponent's Pokemon GX or EX might have.

Obviously, you can't use GX or EX cards in your own deck, if you want to run Power Plant, as it effects both sides of the table. Fortunately, there are plenty other great archetypes that don't require them.

Many players won't expect to see Power Plant on the table, so when it drops, watch them squirm. It's literally a dead end for them.

Rosa (Full Art)

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• Current price: $32.45
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The condition that your Pokemon needs to be knocked out before doing anything, which is the case with Rosa, is not the most popular option in Pokemon TCG among players.

But it also offers a complete recovery that goes from being knocked out to grabbing a Pokemon and energy for a counter attack, and then using Reset Stamp as the trainer card to punish your opponent immediately after.

Plus, this absolutely cute full art print deserves to be in the hall of fame of full art Pokemon cards. It alone can justify the current market price tag.

Giant Hearth (Secret Rare)

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• $32.98
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Giant Hearth is a great way to get rid of cards that you don't want to play right away by discarding them, and instead search your deck for Fire Energy 2. This is also a Stadium card, which may force your opponent to discard their own Stadium card if needed be.

It's a really strong Item card that will benefit players with a flexible game plan. Besides that it has a fantastic new art that has been designed specifically for this secret rare version.

Great Catcher (Secret Rare)

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• Current price: $35.09
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Here is one of the best cards in the Cosmic Eclipse set. Great Catcher will provide consistent wins in the new meta and become a great addition to many old and new top-tier decks.

This secret rare version has a slightly altered art and a golden finish, which may not look as fancy as rainbow rare cards, but still keeps those prices high.

Reshiram & Zekrom GX (Hyper Rare)

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• Current price: $55.54
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Reshiram & Zekrom GX card is illustrated by the one and only Naoki Saito. It also synergizes with Welder and has Tag Team, which could turn out to be a rather formidable new archetype.

Try to combine its attack power in combination with Naganadel or Blazikan, and you wil have a very serious threat against your opponents.

This is also the reason why the ordinary version of the card is so expensive, but this hyper rare version topples that due to the highly vibrant rainbow finish.

Charizard & Braixen GX (Hyper Rare)

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• Current price: $95.98
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Nobody expects to find this hyper rare card, or as they are known "rainbow" rare, in a booster box, because it is definitely extremely rare. That's why if you want to own this either for collectible purposes or for further trading, then you just ought to buy this card separately from a vendor you trust.

Charizard is undoubtedly one of the most popular Pokemon in the world, and this new GX version with Braixen is so much fun to play. It's got the Tag Team, which can be easily exploited with the Tag Call card from Cosmic Eclipse, so keep an eye out on this little monster.

The Pokemon Sun & Moon cycle had 11 successful expansions in Pokemon TCG. Now it's the time to conclude the series with the brand-new Cosmic Eclipse set, which was released on November 1.

The series has introduced lots of new card types to the game, such as GX and Tag Team. Cosmic Eclipse includes 236 base cards and another 50 specialty rare cards with altered artwork. 

Some combinations of the latest Tag Team cards include such famous characters as Charizard & Braixen and Reshiram & Zekrom. These are already considered the strongest combinations among all the new designs.

This means only one thing: the market will get a healthy dose of supply and demand this season, which is an integral part of the Pokemon TCG. So take a look at these 11 most expensive cards from Cosmic Eclipse, and make sure that you invest with a reason.

Oricorio GX

Lastly, a very effective draw engine from Cosmic Eclipse. Oricorio GX has the Dance of Tribute ability. Although this new Oricorio has a pretty low health pool — only 170 for a GX card, which can be easily KO'd by Naganadel — it's still something you may want to include in your GX-based deck.

It also has a weakness to Darkness, but that card draw ability is so good that you may want to just overlook all the little drawbacks.

There has never been a basic Pokemon with such an over-the-top draw ability before — unless you consider Persian GX. But even it could only draw two cards with a similar condition. Considering that, Oricorio is simply head and shoulders above the competition. 

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These are the best Cosmic Eclipse cards for Pokemon TCG, but be sure to check back soon for more related guides.

Volcarona GX

This Pokemon is arguably one of the most important characters in the entire lore of the franchise. However, it took The Pokemon Company eight years to release this card in a high rarity slot, which is really surprising.

Anyway, here it is. It can really wreak some havoc in the upcoming meta. It will be really good in Reshizard decks, helping to bring Tag Teams within range of Flare Strike. But it may not work that well in the Greens version.

It can also work in the Chandelure deck as a way to take the load off of Spirit Burner, which is a huge improvement over Delphox. So there are definitely some amazing combo strategies happening in this meta, and all because of Volcarona GX.

Guzzlord

Dark Box players can now try a new Guzzlord. It's one that has a fun attack, Red Banquet, that deals 120 points of damage. If that attack knocks out another Pokemon, you take a Pirze card, which is easy to achieve by accelerating energy on Guzzlord with the help of Beast Ring.

The new Guzzlord will feel great gainst such decks as Keldeo and Blacephalon, especially when it starts running out those Island Challenge Amulets.

Bellelba & Brycen-Man

This is another supporter card that will wreak havoc in certain decks. In this case, it looks like Mill archetypes will find some free slots for Bellelba.

If you're not playing Mill, it will find its place in decks that focus on disrupting opponent's benches, such as Malamar or Naganadel. Even though the cost may be a bit high, this can be a very strong card in good hands.

But, of course, if you discard some of your own best cards, you may want to use something like Magcargo to control the top of your deck.

Mega Lopunny & Jigglypuff GX

This is a card that can hold off other GX and EX Pokemon. Jumping Balloon does 60 extra damage against them. Since it's a colorless card, it can accelerate a lot of energy and work well in a Malamar deck.

You will see this card in many decks to come. It will be a single unit that fights Pikaroms and other similar decks. However, it will most likely end up in Mewtew decks because they can make extra copies of it.

Cynthia & Caitlin

This is one of the best supporter Tag Team cards in the game. It can be easily fetched by Tag Call, and that just feels good. As you play it, you can discard a card and draw another three.

This card will most likely find its way into the Green Exploration decks that also run Welder. That's where the best synergies can be achieved.

Green's engine archetypes are incredibly strong, and Cynthia & Caitlin will only prove this fact in the new meta.

Silvally GX

Everything Silvally does looks like a better version of Zoroark or Octiller. Of course, it will be primarily played because of its draw potential; it can refill your hand with five new cards if you have a way to quickly discard the old batch.

But such a card advantage doesn't come so easily. You will have to meet the condition of getting Type: Null out in play. This can be achieved with the help of Red & Blue Tag Team and Cherish Ball.

If you can make it happen, all you need is two colorless energy. You can attack with it, and you're basically set to win from there on.

Reshiram & Zekrom

A new Tag Team card unites two dragons: Reshiram & Zekrom. It is definitely the top-tier choice for any competitive deck in the Cosmic Eclipse meta.

First of all, it can accelerate energy by discarding energies, using such cards as Naganadel and Tapu Koko Prism Star. Secondly, it deals 270 damage for only three points of energy, which is extremely cheap. Also, it can easily KO almost any other Pokemon in a single hit.

Lastly, Reshiram can help you search for Naganadel with the help of treasure, and another Reshiram with the help of Cherish Ball and Tag Whistle. So be sure to pay close attention to this card in your match-ups.

Chaotic Swell

Chaotic Swell basically negates the first Stadium card your opponent tries to play, and disrupting other Stadium cards can be great. 

For example, a card like Power Plant from the Aquapolis expansion can be easily postponed for a turn, which gives you more time to set up your own gameplan.

The only drawback is that you can't disrupt your opponent's own Chaotic Swell, so it stays on board until you play another Stadium card.

Though, in that case, you can always use Marshadow from Unbroken Bonds to remove your opponent's Chaotic Swell from the board.

Tag Call

Tag Team players will love this card for its sheer simplicity and power. Being able to quickly snatch two of your Tag Team cards is exactly the kind of consistency one looks for in a Pokemon card game.

You can search for Gardevoir & Sylveon and Mewtwo & Mew, put them into your hand, and shuffle your library. It's as easy as that!

There have been similar cards in the past, but they've always been either limited to one card or one type, which of course, makes Tag Call the best item card in the set.

Great Catcher

This card is similar in effect and impact to Custom Catcher from the Lost Thunder set. Great Catcher will surely be played in many decks this season, regardless of the archetype.

This card works only with benched GX and EX Pokemon, but it will buff many non-GX decks, which will force many GX players to adapt to a new style of play.

At this point, you may try and play both Custom Catcher and Great Catcher in the same deck. They synergize really well, and they give players so many options to control the board that it's worth spending six card slots on them.

Cosmic Eclipse, a brand new Pokemon TCG expansion set in the Sun & Moon universe, is a monumental card set. It has over 270 new cards in print. This is the first English set of such massive size in the history of Pokemon TCG, which includes cards from such Japanese expansions like Remix Bout, Dream League, Alter Genesis, and TAG All Star.

This means that all English-speaking players now have a full access to all cards in the game. Besides the normal versions of cards, Cosmic Eclipse offers Hyper Rare, Secret Rare, and Full Art versions of cards that have slightly different artworks and general design of the cards.

But regardless of the art, this set looks to also be one of the most powerful sets in recent years. It includes a hefty number of Tag Team, GX, and EX cards with new versions of some old favorites that will definitely boggle your mind.

Here, you will find some of the most promising new additions to the game, which will create a lot of new archetypes in the upcoming season.

Pokemon: Detective Pikachu, a live-action CGI movie staring Ryan Reynolds as the sleuthing Pokemon, is hitting theaters May 10. In honor of the movie that has many Pokemon fans pretty excited, The Pokemon Company has created a new line of movie-themed products for its long-running Pokemon Trading Card Game.

Included in the new product line are three different packs, or "Case Files," ranging in price from (approximately) $9.99 USD to $24.99 USD. Each contains promo cards, booster packs, and other goodies for Pokemon Trading Card Game fans to enjoy.

There's also a special Detective Pikachu Collector Chest containing seven Detective Pikachu booster packs, two regular Pokemon TCG booster packs, and other special items that will also retail for around $24.99 USD. All of these are set to release on April 5 in the US and Mach 29 elsewhere.

All told, there will be 26 new Pokemon TCG cards based on Detective Pikachu, each featuring the movie's CGI version of popular Pokemon. At the American International Toy Fair in New York, The Pokemon Company revealed three of these cards: one depicting Jigglypuff, another showing off Mr. Mime, and the final one giving a peek at Psyduck.

Fans interested in checking out the cards in person can do so by visiting The Pokemon Company International booth (#3049) at the American International Toy Fair — if you happen to be in the neighborhood, of course. For the rest of us, The Pokemon Company has provided the pictures of the three cards shown above.

With the reveal of these three cards, fans have now seen six cards from Detective Pikachu — the first were cards for Detective Pikachu, Charizard, and Greninja. As for this new batch, Jigglypuff is pretty cute, Psyduck is up there, and Mr. Mime is just terrifying — but in a funny way. 

Soon, fans of the Pokemon TCG: Sun & Moon Series will be able to easily track all their cards with the help of an official app from The Pokemon Company. The Pokemon TCG Card Dex is a free app that tracks not only the main series of cards but all expansions and even promo cards some lucky players may have acquired.

Pokemon TCG: Sun & Moon players in Sweden already have access to the app thanks to a soft launch in their country. Unfortunately, the rest of us will have to wait until it rolls out in our countries in order to give it a whirl.

The Pokemon TCG Card Dex isn't just a spreadsheet-like program that requires players to manually enter their card information. Instead, players will use the built-in cameras on their phone to scan cards and add them to the Dex.

The excellent news is that even damaged or obscured cards can be recognized by the app. As for cards in different languages, they are translated into the user's language of choice.

Once scanned in, cards in the Dex can be sorted by expansion, card type, rarity, Pokemon type, energy type, HP, and a variety of other options.  Players can also search the Dex for cards they haven't yet entered in order to discover new ones they'd like to add to their collection.

The Pokemon TCG Card Dex is free to download in Sweden, via both the Apple App Store and Google Play. It supports several languages, including English, Spanish, French, Italian, German, and Brazilian Portuguese. So several countries are already localized for when it rolls out in their areas.

At present, no other languages are included, but seeing as this is Pokemon we're talking about, it probably won't take long for the app to include more. Although, it is a bit surprising that Japanese isn't listed as one of the available languages.

In February, Sun & Moon joined the Pokemon Trading Card Game series. Only six months later on August 4, Sun & Moon's first expansion will debut: Burning Shadows.

The expansion is set to bring a host of new content to the Pokemon trading game fanbase. Here's what players can expect when the new content drops in a few months: 

• New Pokemon: Play with Necrozma, Marshadow, and many more from the Pokemon Sun and Pokemon Moon video games.
• Alolan Pokemon: Classic Pokemon will return with a unique appearance to match the proprietary Alolan forms of Sun and Moon.
• New Theme Decks: These 60-card decks are ready for players to play immediately. 
• New Booster Packs: The packs contain 10 new expansion cards. One card in each pack will be rare. 
• New Cards: Have over 140 cards at your disposal, including 12 new Pokemon-GX and Supporter cards with full art.
  
  • Get ready to play with Machamp-GX and Charizard-GX.

You can read more about Burning Shadows by visiting the Pokemon official website. To pick up this merchandise on August 4, find a participating retailer near you. Stay tuned to GameSkinny for all the latest Pokemon news!

And many more...

These are only seven out of the near infinite number of card games you can play when you've finished YuGiOh! Duel Links.  These types of games have appeared on nearly every game console and mobile device ever made, so there are plenty for you to choose from. The games listed here are only a few suggestions for things to pick up when you need to scratch the itch and you're bored of everything in your library. 

Pocket Card Jockey

For Solitaire lovers who want a fresh take (or 3DS owners looking for some new fun)

Our last pick is a Nintendo 3DS eShop Exclusive by Pokemon developer, GameFreak.

In Pocket Card Jockey, you start as a rookie jockey who breeds and raises horses so that eventually you'll become the best (like no jockey ever was). You'll take these horses to the races to test their mettle. 

The horse races you participate in are unique in that playing solitaire affects how well your horse does in the race. The faster and more successfully you play a game of Solitaire, the better your horse will perform. But instead of playing just one game of Solitaire each race, you play one for each length of the race -- so the game keeps you on your toes for as long as your horse is racing.

If you want to play Solitaire with a unique twist, or are looking for an interesting Nintendo 3DS exclusive to play before Nintendo starts to focus on the Switch, then Pocket Card Jockey is a great game to try. A free demo is currently available for download or the Nintendo 3DS eShop.

UNO & Friends

For the tabletop card player

This color and number matching card game has been a popular tabletop choice for decades, so it's only fitting that it would join the world of mobile card game apps.

In UNO & Friends, you can play in tournaments, play 2v2, and play against others online -- all for free! What makes this app stand out is that there are Pokemon-like companions which you can unlock and level up to use special skills. There are also power-ups called boosts, which you can use to enhance your chances of victory.

If the other games on this list haven't interested you, but you love to play UNO with your friends all the time, then UNO & Friends is the game for you.

MAGIC 2015 - Duels of the Planeswalkers

For the hardcore CCG fan

Did you know that Yu-Gi-Oh! was originally inspired by Magic the Gathering? It was! In the original manga, the card game Duel Monsters -- originally known as Magic & Wizards -- is a popular card game from America and that gains a worldwide following.

MAGIC 2015 is somewhat similar to Duel Links. Although it's a little bit slower -- like Pokemon TCG Online -- it can also help you learn how to play the actual trading card game if that's something you're interested in doing. This game contains a detailed tutorial which can easily teach you how to play, but it might be a little difficult if you're used to other TCGs.

Just like previous games on this list, there are single player and multiplayer modes, purchasable in-game booster packs, and plenty of rewards.

If Magic the Gathering was always easier for you to understand than Yu-Gi-Oh!, then MAGIC 2015 isn't only a great alternative option, but probably one you'll enjoy even more than Duel Links.

Pokemon TCG Online

For die hard tablet gamers

Pokemon TCG Online is only playable on PC, Mac, iPad Air, iPad mini, and Android tablets.

This game is similar to Duel Links in that it allows you to play against both computer and real opponents, and players earn rewards and experience from competing against others and beating daily challenges.

Pokemon TCG Online is a bit slower than Duel Links, as it's directly based off of the Pokemon trading card game rather than a streamlined version of it. The game even has both Unlimited and Standard deck construction formats. It also features an online trading system between, which Duel Links sorely needs.

If Pokemon has always been your favorite card game, then you can't go wrong with Pokemon TCG Online.

Digimon Heroes!

For the fan who prefers Digimon over YuGiOh!

Digimon Heroes! is a match-3 card battle game where you pick five Digital Monsters for your team and battle other teams of Digimon. 

There are five different types of Digimon, and each type has a corresponding color which determines what other cards will help your Digimon attack the opposing team. After a few turns of matching cards of the same color with your Digimon team, at least one of them will be able to use their special skills, which can turn the tides of battle immensely.

Digimon can also become stronger by fusing them together and having them digivolve into more powerful forms.

With Digimon rising in popularity once again from the new movies and video games, Digimon Heroes! would be a good alternative option if you're looking for another quality mobile card game to provide you with a sense of nostalgia.

WWE Super Card

For the fan of wrestling AND card games.

Hot off the heels of the 33rd Wrestlemania event, we have WWE Super Card.

In this game you collect cards of different wrestlers and have them battle it out in the ring in several different modes, including: 

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• Wild
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• King of the Ring
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• Road to Glory
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• People's Champion Challenge
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• Ring Domination
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• Money in the Bank
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• Royal Rumble
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• Ranked
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These eight different modes each have their own set of unique rules, with different rewards and methods to obtain them.

Cards have different stats and rarities, and the stats of a card can be increased when you have two copies of it with maxed out stats. These conditions will let you obtain a Pro Card, which are stronger than normal cards.

Most recently, season 3 of WWE Super Card has added a variety of new features -- including attitudes used to taunt opponents as well as new rewards.

With the popularity of the sport being relatively high right now, this would be a suitable alternative choice to Duel Links if you're a wrestling fan. And there should already be plenty of people to play against online.

Yu-Gi-Oh! Forbidden Memories

For a quick, alternate version of duel monsters. 

Our first pick on the list is also from the Yu-Gi-Oh! franchise, but this one is available on the original PlayStation rather than mobile devices. Forbidden Memories uses the prototype rules for the Yu-Gi-Oh! card game, and is quite a change from most modern Yu-Gi-Oh! games. But it still plays fast like Duel Links.

Tribute summoning and monster effects are nonexistent. Monsters are allowed to be put in face-up defense position and even face-down attack position. Equip spell cards have slightly different effects and give the correct monsters a permanent ATK boost. And trap cards activate automatically once proper conditions are met.

Players can fuse together monsters without use of the card "Polymerization" and the result can depend on the attribute, type, and ATK strength of the monsters used.

The game also features a strengths and weaknesses system called Guardian Stars, in which players have to pick one out of the available two every time they summon a monster. If the Guardian Star of the attacking monster is strong against the opposing monster's Guardian Star, then the attacker temporarily gains 500 ATK points.

One benefit Forbidden Memories has over Duel Links is that every monster in the game has a 3D model, which can be viewed by going to the action battle screen when one monster attacks another. Forbidden Memories also has a unique story line which was created before the manga was finished.

Yu-Gi-Oh! Forbidden Memories is a great alternative to Duel Links if you're looking for another Yu-Gi-Oh! game with a unique spin on it.

Ever since its worldwide release on January 11, Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel Links has been a massive hit among both old and new fans of the franchise.  Original voice actors from the show reprise their roles in this game, which uses a streamlined version of the trading card game rules -- both of which create a sense of nostalgia for many fans.

But even with its widespread appeal, the mobile card game can get a bit boring after playing for a while, especially when there aren't any special events happening. Sometimes, you might wish there was another similar game you could play while you wait a week or more for the next Duel Links event. When this feeling strikes, here are 7 other games you can try!

Pokemon announced its latest expansion for the Trading Card Game XY series. Titled "Evolutions" and available for purchase on November 2, Pokemon continues to celebrate its 20 year anniversary by bringing back its original trading cards from the Base Set.

Mixing old and new, the cards are packed with nostalgia in appearance, but redone stats give them all the power they need to compete with modern-day decks. The often sought-after Charizard is once again searching for hands to wield its power. 

With EX cards such as Mega Venasuar-EX and Dragonite-EX still in the mix, there are various ways to pummel opponents. Over 100 cards are available in the set. Booster packs and two new theme decks, Pikachu Power and Mewtwo Mayhem, will be available at retailers once the set is out.

Along with the EX cards comes four new BREAK cards, including Machamp BREAK, there is a plethora of variety when it comes to choosing cards and enhancing decks. 

Will you be attending pre-releases to add these cards to your collection early, or waiting to hit the stores when the set releases? Let us know your favorite way to collect new cards in the comments!

Volcanion, the mythical steam Pokemon, is making its debut in the new Pokemon: The Trading Card Game expansion: XY-Steam Siege. As of today, Pokemon enthusiasts can venture to major retailers to pick up the new expansion.

Along with featuring over 110 new cards, XY-Steam Siege also ushers in the new BREAK mechanic. The known cards to utilize this mechanic are:

• Xerneas BREAK
• Yveltal BREAK
• Yanmega BREAK
• Talonflame BREAK
• Pyroar BREAK
• Clawitzer BREAK
• Hydreigon BREAK

The new expansion will also feature Shiny Mega Gardevoir-EX.

The Pokemon gears keep spinning with the first look at the new movie: Pokémon the Movie: Volcanion and the Mechanical Marvel. The movie will mark the debut of not only Volcanion, but also the artificial Pokémon Magearna, a creature created 500 years ago in a city of cogs and gears. An animated teaser was released along with a brief summary earlier today:

The movie will be released in North America and Europe later this year.

We can all agree that this year so far has been pretty big for the Pokemon brand. With the upcoming release of generation 7 games and the impact of Pokemon Go, surely there is nothing to top this?

But there might just be. Let's take a look at the trading card game series and its latest announcement. 

Very recently it was announced that the Pokemon Company is revisiting the past with a special edition TCG set "Evolutions" which is inspired by the original base set cards! These cards will feature unaltered artwork from the original 1999 base set, sparking the nostalgia of every young adult and the hearts of collectors. 

However, being a revisited set, Evolutions will feature current versions of TCG cards, such as EX style and Break cards. Considering this, it is a very exciting time indeed to see some of our favorite Generation 1 Pokemon back in packs. Just when you thought Pokémon couldn't get any better, it just did.

The Evolutions set will drop in November this year for the West and September for Japan.

A Tumblr user by the name of Lunumbra has been growing in popularity for expanding the artwork of Pokemon Trading Card Game cards. Fans of the Magic the Gathering card game are already likely familiar with expanded artworks, the likes of which are seen as collectables or favorites among Magic the Gathering players.

Lunumbra has applied a similar method of expanding artworks to a number of Pokemon cards, and the results are simply astounding.

Here are some examples:

You wouldn't know by looking at the original cards, but Leafeon and Glaceon's cards are actually part of one giant piece of art. This is actually a common trend among Pokemon cards.

Ditto goes for Magikarp and Gyarados. This pair really highlights the difference between the two Pokemon, doesn't it?

The only downside to these expanded art cards is that the only way to preserve the text (and utility of the cards, I suppose) is to leave some space between the card text and the artwork. Still, they look great.

Lunumbra also does expanded arts for standalone cards. In the case of this Light Jolteon card, it certainly makes the card's artwork look more at peace - as if the original didn't already!

If you want to see more of Lunumbra's work, you can find more at their Facebook page. Lunumbra also does commissions for those interested. The cost is typically $15 a piece (plus shipping) and is usually done within two weeks.

With Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire out in the wild, there's never been a better time to be a Pokémaniac. There's a veritable menagerie of excellent games out there that belong to the Pokémon series that aren't exactly role-playing adventures, but awesome nevertheless. Even if you took the plunge and bought the excellent new remakes, there's still plenty to be found in each of these games that should please any rabid Pokémaniac.

1. Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Gates to Infinity (Nintendo 3DS)

The Mystery Dungeon series is an intriguing companion to the flagship Pokémon titles, offering a different sort of challenge beyond simple catch, battle, and evolve mechanics. Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Gates to Infinity makes the series' very first 3DS appearance. Alongside the monster partner of your choosing, you wander around these randomized dungeons to tackle various wild Pokemon, collect items, and earn experience points -- eventually growing a small squad of monsters to aid you in your quest. Not only is this one in particular the newest spin-off game, but it's also one of the best. 

2. Pokémon Trading Card Game (Game Boy Color)

 The addictive and exciting trading card game made its way to Game Boy Color back during the heyday of the physical cards, and the Game Boy iteration married the fast-paced nature of the card game with role-playing mechanics that felt a lot like the original Pokémon titles in tone and in scope. While we never received an official translation of the excellent sequel, the first one is worth every second of your time and is one of the greatest Pokémon titles you can find. 

 3. Pokémon Puzzle Challenge (Game Boy Color)

Every major franchise needs its own puzzler, and Pokémon has them in droves, specifically Pokémon Puzzle Challenge, which is an engaging blend of Pokemon and the matching madness of the free-to-play titles many gamers enjoy today. This one was an especially interesting adventure that not only made an appearance on the Game Boy, but also N64. Swapping the multicolored tiles with shapes like stars, hearts, and more will quickly take you over, so a brief warning is probably necessary here -- it's addictive! Watch how much you play!

4. Pokémon Pinball (Game Boy Color)

Having personally spent many a night during my youth with the bulky Pokémon Pinball cartridge and capturing the monsters I dearly loved, I can attest that this pinball title is one of the most animated examples out there since Kirby's pinball endeavor, or even Revenge of the Gator. Coloful and rife with awesome chances to catch 'em all, it's one solo adventure you'll be happy you took.

5. Pokémon Ranger: Shadows of Almia (Nintendo DS)

Pokémon Ranger is a bit strange, but it's still a lot of fun nevertheless. You're charged with capturing Pokémon with a device called a "capture styler", controlled by the DS stylus. To capture the monster, you have to draw circles around them instead of throwing Poké Balls, and the styler itself has its own health bar. It's an interesting alternative to traditional Pokémon battles, giving a new perspective on the classic in-game worlds and offering something new for longtime fans. 

Of course, this is in no way a definitive list of what the world of Pokémon has to offer. I touched upon some of the lesser-known titles in this list, but you can't forget things like Pokémon Snap, Hey You, Pikachu! and Pokémon Stadium. Which ones are your favorites and why?