As a Pokémon card collector, the Scarlet & Violet era has been a wild ride. Since its debut in 2023, this era—built around the Paldea region from Pokémon Scarlet and Violet games—has delivered some of the most collectible cards I’ve ever seen. From the dazzling Tera Pokémon ex to the nostalgic 151 set, every expansion feels like a love letter to fans. The artwork pops with vibrant colors, and the gameplay, with mechanics like Stellar Tera and ACE SPEC cards, keeps my binder and deck in constant rotation. Whether I’m chasing a shiny Charizard ex or building a deck with Zekrom ex, Card Chill’s Pokémon hub is my go-to for snagging the latest releases. Let’s dive into why the Scarlet & Violet era is a collector’s paradise and explore its standout sets, all available at Card Chill.
Why Scarlet & Violet Feels So Special
What makes this era shine? For me, it’s the mix of nostalgia and innovation. The Paldea region introduced Tera Pokémon ex, which sparkle with crystalline designs and type-shifting abilities—like a Darkness-type Charizard ex in Obsidian Flames. These cards aren’t just powerful; they’re gorgeous, with full-art Illustration Rares that make my binder a showpiece. The era also brought back fan-favorite mechanics, like ACE SPEC cards in Temporal Forces, which add strategic depth to battles. As a collector, I’m hooked on the thrill of pulling a Special Illustration Rare, like the Victini BWR from White Flare, worth over $200 on TCGPlayer.
Scarlet & Violet sets cater to everyone—collectors like me chasing shiny cards, players building meta-defining decks, and even investors eyeing 20-50% value growth for rare cards by 2026. Whether I’m browsing Card Chill’s TCG Sets page for new expansions or hunting singles, this era keeps my passion for Pokémon TCG alive.
Breaking Down the Scarlet & Violet Sets
The Scarlet & Violet era has rolled out a ton of expansions, each with its own flavor. Here are the ones I’ve been obsessing over, packed with chase cards and collectible gems.
Scarlet & Violet Base Set: A Sparkling Start
Released on March 31, 2023, the Scarlet & Violet Base Set was my introduction to Paldea’s magic. With over 190 cards, it features the region’s starters—Sprigatito, Fuecoco, and Quaxly—evolving into Meowscarada ex, Skeledirge ex, and Quaquaval ex. I pulled a Tera Arcanine ex from a Booster Box at Card Chill, and its crystalline design still blows me away. The set’s 10+ Pokémon ex and 36 illustration rares make it a collector’s dream, perfect for kicking off a Paldea collection.
Paldea Evolved: Power and Artistry
Paldea Evolved (June 9, 2023) took things up a notch with over 190 cards, including Tera Pokémon ex like Forretress ex and Slowking ex. I love the vibrant artwork—my Pikachu ex pull is a binder centerpiece. With 15+ Pokémon ex and eight gold hyper rares, this set is a must for collectors. I grabbed an Elite Trainer Box (ETB) from Card Chill’s Pokémon hub and scored a full-art Supporter card that’s now worth $50.
Obsidian Flames: Charizard Steals the Show
Obsidian Flames (August 11, 2023) is a collector’s jackpot, thanks to its Darkness-type Charizard ex. With over 190 cards, including type-shifted Tera Pokémon ex like Tyranitar ex and Vespiquen ex, this set’s fiery energy had me hooked. The 20+ Pokémon ex and 15+ Trainer cards make it a battle powerhouse, too. I snagged a Booster Box from Card Chill and pulled a Special Illustration Rare that’s now a prized possession.
151: A Nostalgic Kanto Adventure
The 151 set (September 22, 2023) hit me right in the nostalgia. Featuring all 151 original Kanto Pokémon, it’s a love letter to classics like Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Squirtle. I pulled a Charizard ex from an ETB at Card Chill’s TCG Sets page, and its full-art illustration is stunning. With 12 Pokémon ex and over 160 cards, this mini-expansion is perfect for collectors chasing that Kanto vibe.
Paradox Rift: Time-Traveling Thrills
Paradox Rift (November 3, 2023) mixes past and future with Ancient Pokémon like Roaring Moon ex and Future Pokémon like Iron Valiant ex. The set’s 180+ cards include a Water-type Garchomp ex that’s a meta game-changer. I love the crystalline Tera designs—my Armarouge ex pull is a gem. This set’s 15+ Pokémon ex and 20+ Trainer cards make it a collector’s and player’s delight.
Paldean Fates: Shiny Pokémon Galore
Paldean Fates (January 26, 2024) is a shiny collector’s dream, with over 100 Shiny Pokémon led by Shiny Pikachu ex. With 240+ cards, including Shiny Charizard ex and six hyper rare gold cards, it’s one of my favorite sets. I opened a Booster Bundle from Card Chill and pulled a Shiny Espathra ex—pure magic.
Temporal Forces: Ancient vs. Future
Temporal Forces (March 22, 2024) introduced Ancient Pokémon like Walking Wake ex and Future Pokémon like Iron Leaves ex. The return of ACE SPEC cards, like the six powerful Trainers in this 160+ card set, shook up my deck-building. My Raging Bolt ex pull from a Booster Box at Card Chill’s Pokémon hub is a competitive beast.
Twilight Masquerade: Kitakami’s Enchantment
Twilight Masquerade (May 24, 2024) brings Kitakami’s folklore to life with Ogerpon ex in four Tera types. With 160+ cards, including Bloodmoon Ursaluna ex and 30+ special illustrations, it’s a visual feast. I pulled a Greninja ex from an ETB at Card Chill and can’t stop admiring its artwork.
Shrouded Fable: Dark and Mysterious
Shrouded Fable (August 2, 2024) dives into Kitakami’s shadows with Pecharunt ex and the Loyal Three—Okidogi ex, Munkidori ex, and Fezandipiti ex. Its 95+ cards include a Lightning-type Revavroom ex that’s a collector’s gem. I snagged a Booster Bundle from Card Chill’s TCG Sets page and scored a special illustration rare.
Stellar Crown: Terastal’s Peak
Stellar Crown (September 13, 2024) showcases Terapagos ex and Stellar Tera Pokémon ex like Cinderace ex. With 170+ cards and new ACE SPEC cards, it’s a meta-definer. My Galvantula ex pull from a Booster Box at Card Chill is a sparkling addition to my binder.
Surging Sparks: Electric Energy
Surging Sparks (November 8, 2024) crackles with 250+ cards, led by Pikachu ex and dragons like Alolan Exeggutor ex. The eight new ACE SPEC cards add strategic depth. I pulled a Latias ex from a Booster Box at Card Chill’s Pokémon hub—a real sparkler.
Prismatic Evolutions: Eevee’s Rainbow
Prismatic Evolutions (January 17, 2025) is my Eevee-loving heart’s dream. With 175+ cards, it features Stellar Tera Eeveelutions like Umbreon ex. The glittering Illustration Rares are stunning—I pulled a Sylveon ex from an ETB at Card Chill. This set’s prismatic energy is unmatched.
Journey Together and Destined Rivals: Trainer Nostalgia
Journey Together (March 28, 2025) and Destined Rivals (May 30, 2025) bring Trainer-owned Pokémon to the forefront. Journey Together has 190 main-set cards with N’s Zoroark ex and Lillie’s Clefairy ex, while Destined Rivals (244 cards) features Team Rocket’s Mewtwo ex. My Marnie’s Grimmsnarl ex from a Booster Box at Card Chill’s TCG Sets page is a nostalgic gem.
Black Bolt and White Flare: Unova’s Return
Black Bolt and White Flare (July 18, 2025) celebrate Unova with 156-card master sets each. Zekrom ex and Reshiram ex shine, and the “Black & White Rare” Victini BWR is my proudest pull from a Booster Box at Card Chill.
My Tips for Collecting Scarlet & Violet Cards
Here’s what I’ve learned from collecting Scarlet & Violet cards:
- Choose Your Products: Booster Boxes (36 packs) are my go-to for chasing rares, but ETBs are great for accessories. Check Card Chill for options.
- Hunt Chase Cards: Special Illustration Rares, like those in Destined Rivals, are worth the chase. Card Chill’s Pokémon hub lists top cards to target.
- Protect Your Collection: I use Ultra-Pro sleeves and binders to keep my Charizard ex pristine.
- Budget Wisely: Singles from Card Chill are often cheaper than opening packs for specific cards.
- Stay Updated: New sets drop regularly, so I check Card Chill’s TCG Sets page for the latest releases.
Why I’m Obsessed with Scarlet & Violet in 2025
The Scarlet & Violet era has something for every collector. The artwork, from 151’s nostalgic Kanto vibes to Prismatic Evolutions’ shiny Eeveelutions, makes every pull a thrill. The competitive edge, with ACE SPEC cards and Tera mechanics, keeps my decks fresh. Whether I’m adding a shiny Pikachu ex to my binder or battling with Zekrom ex, this era captures the heart of Pokémon TCG. Card Chill has been my trusted source for Booster Boxes, ETBs, and singles, helping my collection grow. If you’re ready to dive into the Scarlet & Violet era, start your adventure today and let your collection shine!