For collectors and competitive players alike, opening a Pokemon booster box or a few Pokemon card packs is always an exciting experience. Whether hunting for rare cards to complete your collection or looking for powerful additions to your deck, knowing how to identify valuable pulls in the Pokemon TCG can make a big difference. Understanding pull rates, rarity symbols, and card values can help you get the most out of your packs.
Understanding Rarity in Pokemon TCG
Each Pokemon card pack contains various cards with different rarities, ranging from standard to ultra-rare. Identifying these rarities is key to spotting a valuable pull.
Common Cards
These are the most frequently found cards in Pokemon booster boxes and packs. They are marked with a black circle in the bottom left or right corner. While not particularly valuable, they are essential for deck building and trades.
Uncommon Cards
Uncommon cards are slightly more challenging to find than common ones and are marked with a black diamond. These include helpful Trainer cards, mid-tier Pokemon evolutions, and sometimes foiled variants.
Rare Cards
Rare cards, indicated by a black star, are the real treasures of any Pokemon booster box. Within this category, several subtypes determine the rarity and value:
- Holo Rare – Features a shiny, holographic image of the Pokemon.
- Reverse Holo – The entire Card, except the artwork, has a holographic effect.
- Ultra Rare – Includes V, VMAX, EX, and GX cards featuring unique abilities and impressive artwork.
- Secret Rare – These cards have numbers exceeding the set’s official count (e.g., 201/200) and often include Rainbow Rares and Full Art Trainer cards.
Pull Rates in Pokemon Booster Boxes
Pull rates refer to the probability of finding rare and ultra-rare cards in a Pokemon booster box or individual Pokemon card packs. While pull rates vary by set, here are general estimates:
- Rare Card – 1 in every pack
- Holo Rare – 1 in every three packs
- Ultra Rare (V, VMAX, GX, EX) – 1 in every 6-8 packs
- Secret Rare – 1 in every 20-30 packs
Different sets, such as “Crown Zenith” or “Evolving Skies,” have different pull rates, so researching before purchasing a booster box can help manage expectations.
Best Strategies for Spotting Rare Pulls
While opening Pokemon card packs is primarily based on luck, a few techniques can help determine if you’ve pulled something special.
1. Check the Card Number
One of the easiest ways to identify a rare pull is by looking at the card number. You have a Secret Rare card if the number exceeds the set count (e.g., 201/200).
2. Look for Holographic Patterns
Holographic cards stand out with their shiny finish. Tilt the Card under a light to see the foiling and determine if it’s a Holo Rare or a Reverse Holo.
3. Weighing Packs (Ethically)
Some collectors attempt to weigh Pokemon card packs, as holographic and ultra-rare cards can be slightly heavier. However, this practice is discouraged and often mitigated by manufacturers, who insert code cards of varying weights to balance the pack.
4. Code Card Colour Trick
Modern Pokemon TCG packs contain a code card used for the online game. The colour of the border can hint at the contents:
- White or Black Code Cards – Usually indicate a rare or holographic pull.
- Green Code Cards – Typically signal a pack with no holographic cards.
5. Feel the Card Texture
Ultra Rare and Secret Rare cards often have unique textures. Running your fingers over the surface can help identify embossed patterns, which are common in Full Art cards and Rainbow Rares.
Investing in Pokemon Booster Boxes vs. Individual Packs
Many collectors debate whether to buy a Pokemon booster box or individual Pokemon card packs when hunting for rare pulls. Here’s a breakdown of both options:
- Pokemon Booster Box: Contains 36 packs and offers a more predictable spread of rare pulls. It’s the best choice for serious collectors or those aiming for a complete set.
- Individual Packs: These are more budget-friendly but come with greater risk. Since they are randomized, pulling a high-value card is impossible.
Pulling a rare card from a Pokemon booster box or individual Pokemon card packs is an exhilarating moment for any collector. By understanding rarity symbols, pull rates, and various identification techniques, you can enhance your Pokemon TCG experience and maximize your chances of finding that sought-after Card. Whether you’re opening packs for fun or as an investment, being well-informed makes every unboxing more rewarding.
