Champion’s Path

Sword & Shield—Champion’s Path Set

The Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) continues to captivate fans in 2025, with the Sword & Shield—Champion’s Path set, originally released on September 25, 2020, remaining a collector’s favorite due to its focus on the Galar region and iconic Charizard cards. With over 673,000 monthly searches for “Pokémon cards,” this special expansion from the Sword & Shield series still commands attention for its rare cards, unique products, and investment potential. Featuring over 70 cards, including powerful V and VMAX Pokémon, Champion’s Path is a must-have for collectors and players. This guide covers general information, chased cards, product selection, investment potential, and tips for engaging with this beloved set in 2025.

From Charizard VMAX to Gardevoir V, let’s explore why Champion’s Path remains a cornerstone of Pokémon TCG collecting and how to source authentic products from trusted retailers like Card Chill.

General Information on Champion’s Path

Sword & Shield—Champion’s Path is a special expansion in the Sword & Shield series, released on September 25, 2020, with no direct Japanese counterpart. The set contains 73 main cards and 7 secret rares, totaling over 70 cards, focusing on the Galar region from Pokémon Sword and Shield. Unlike standard expansions, Champion’s Path has no Booster Packs sold separately; cards are available only through special products like Elite Trainer Boxes (ETBs) and Pin Collections. The set emphasizes Gym Leader-themed Pokémon, with 15 Pokémon V, 3 Pokémon VMAX, and 4 Supporter cards, plus Shiny and full-art variants. It’s playable digitally via the Pokémon TCG Live app.

Key features include:

  • Over 70 Cards: Including 15 Pokémon V, 3 Pokémon VMAX, 4 Supporter cards, and 7 secret rares (Rainbow Rares and Shiny cards).
  • Theme: Centers on the Galar region’s Gym Leaders, with cards like Marnie’s Grimmsnarl V and Leon’s Charizard V.
  • Unique Distribution: No standalone Booster Packs; available only in special products like ETBs, Pin Collections, and Dubwool V Boxes.
  • Mechanics: Focuses on high-HP V and VMAX Pokémon for competitive play, with strong Supporter synergy.

The set’s lack of Booster Packs, Charizard-driven hype, and Galar focus make it a collector’s gem in 2025.

Chased Cards in Champion’s Path

Champion’s Path is renowned for its high-value chase cards, prized for their rarity, artwork, and competitive utility. Here are the top chased cards, based on secondary market values and collector sentiment as of August 2025:

1. Charizard VMAX (Secret Rare, Rainbow Rare)

  • Details: A vibrant, rainbow-foil depiction of Charizard with a 330 HP G-Max Wildfire attack dealing 300 damage. Card number 074/073.
  • Value: $200–$500 (PSA 10), previously peaked at $1,000+ in 2020–2021.
  • Why Chased: Charizard’s iconic status, low pull rate (1 in 600 packs), and stunning rainbow foil make it the set’s crown jewel.
  • Tip: Prime for grading due to enduring collector demand and display appeal.

2. Shiny Charizard V (Secret Rare)

  • Details: A Shiny black Charizard with a 250-damage Flare Blitz attack, featuring bold, glossy artwork. Card number 079/073.
  • Value: $150–$400 (PSA 10).
  • Why Chased: Rare Shiny variant and Charizard’s popularity drive massive demand.
  • Tip: A must-have for Charizard collectors; pair with Charizard VMAX for a thematic set.

3. Gardevoir VMAX (Rainbow Rare)

  • Details: A colorful, rainbow-foil Gardevoir VMAX with a 210-damage Max Cure attack, healing 50 damage. Card number 076/073.
  • Value: $50–$150 (PSA 10).
  • Why Chased: Competitive Psychic-type deck potential and striking artwork by 5ban Graphics.
  • Tip: Synergizes with Gardevoir V for competitive play.

4. Marnie (Full Art Supporter)

  • Details: A full-art Supporter card featuring Marnie, allowing players to shuffle hands and draw 5 or 4 cards based on coin flips. Card number 068/073.
  • Value: $30–$100 (PSA 10).
  • Why Chased: Fan-favorite character and competitive utility boost collectibility.
  • Tip: Essential for deck-building and Galar-themed collections.

5. Duraludon VMAX (Rainbow Rare)

  • Details: A metallic, rainbow-foil Duraludon VMAX with a 220-damage G-Max Pulverization attack ignoring effects. Card number 075/073.
  • Value: $40–$120 (PSA 10).
  • Why Chased: Unique Steel/Dragon typing and vibrant artwork appeal to collectors.
  • Tip: Collect alongside Duraludon V for a complete set.

Other notable cards include Venusaur V (full art), Kabu (full art Supporter), and Alcremie V (full art), valued for their art and gameplay potential.

Product Selection for Champion’s Path

Champion’s Path is unique for its lack of standalone Booster Packs, making special products the only way to access cards. Here’s a breakdown of the best options in 2025:

1. Elite Trainer Box (ETB)

  • Best For: Collectors and players seeking high-value cards like Charizard VMAX.
  • Contents: 10 Champion’s Path Booster Packs (10 cards each), 65 Marnie-themed sleeves, dice, counters, a storage box, and a Leon promo card.
  • Price: $60–$100 retail in 2020, now $150–$300 on secondary markets due to scarcity.
  • Tip: Highly sought after for chase card pull rates; hold sealed for investment.

2. Pin Collections

  • Best For: Collectors seeking promos and smaller quantities.
  • Contents: 3 Booster Packs and a promo card (e.g., Eldegoss V, Hatenna, or Galarian Cursola).
  • Price: $15–$25 retail in 2020, now $40–$80.
  • Tip: Ideal for collectors targeting specific promos; check for Gym Leader variants (e.g., Milo, Nessa).

3. Dubwool V Box

  • Best For: Budget-conscious collectors or players.
  • Contents: 4 Booster Packs, a Dubwool V promo card, and a jumbo Dubwool V card.
  • Price: $20–$30 retail in 2020, now $50–$100.
  • Tip: Cost-effective for pulling rares like Gardevoir VMAX.

4. Hatterene V Box

  • Best For: Collectors and Psychic-type players.
  • Contents: 4 Booster Packs, a Hatterene V promo card, and a jumbo Hatterene V card.
  • Price: $20–$30 retail in 2020, now $50–$90.
  • Tip: Great for collectors seeking Hatterene-themed items.

5. Special Collection (Charizard VMAX)

  • Best For: Investors and Charizard enthusiasts.
  • Contents: 4 Booster Packs, a Charizard V promo card, and a jumbo Charizard VMAX card.
  • Price: $30–$50 retail in 2020, now $100–$200.
  • Tip: High demand due to Charizard hype; hold sealed for maximum value.

Shop these products at Card Chill’s Pokémon Cards page, offering authentic singles and sealed products shipped from West London.

Investment Potential of Champion’s Path

Champion’s Path remains a strong investment in 2025 due to its Charizard-driven hype, limited product availability, and nostalgic Galar appeal. Here’s why it’s a smart choice:

  • High-Value Chase Cards: Cards like Charizard VMAX ($200–$500 PSA 10) and Shiny Charizard V ($150–$400 PSA 10) continue to command premium prices, with potential for further growth.
  • Sealed Product Appreciation: ETBs ($150–$300) and Special Collections ($100–$200) have doubled or tripled in value since 2020, with limited supply driving demand.
  • No Booster Packs: The lack of standalone Booster Packs creates scarcity, boosting secondary market prices.
  • Charizard Hype: Charizard cards consistently drive long-term value, as seen with Base Set Charizard.
  • Nostalgic Appeal: Galar region and Gym Leader themes resonate with Sword & Shield fans.

Risks to Consider:

  • Market Volatility: Charizard card prices can fluctuate, though they’ve stabilized in 2025.
  • Counterfeits: High-value cards like Charizard VMAX are prime targets for fakes—buy from trusted sources like Card Chill’s Pokémon hub.
  • Pull Rates: Low pull rates for secret rares (e.g., 1 in 600 for Charizard VMAX) make pack opening risky for investors.

Investment Tips:

  • Hold sealed ETBs or Special Collections for 5–10 years for maximum ROI.
  • Grade high-value cards like Charizard VMAX or Shiny Charizard V with PSA or Beckett to boost value.
  • Monitor TCGPlayer or eBay sold listings for price trends.
  • Focus on sealed products with Charizard promos for scarcity-driven value.

Tips for Engaging with Champion’s Path

  1. Collect Strategically: Prioritize Rainbow Rares and Shiny cards for collectibility and value.
  2. Build Competitive Decks: Use Charizard VMAX or Gardevoir VMAX for Fire and Psychic-type strategies—test on Pokémon TCG Live.
  3. Join Local Leagues: Trade and play at events found via the Pokémon Event Locator.
  4. Protect Cards: Use sleeves, top loaders, and binders to maintain mint condition for grading or trading.
  5. Stay Informed: Follow Card Chill’s TCG Sets page for updates on Champion’s Path products and trends.

Where to Buy Champion’s Path Products

Purchase authentic Champion’s Path cards and sealed products from Card Chill. Their Pokémon Cards page offers singles and sealed products like ETBs, shipped from West London, ensuring no counterfeits. Visit Card Chill’s TCG Sets page for detailed set information.

Champion’s Path FAQ

When was Champion’s Path released?

September 25, 2020, with no standalone Booster Packs.

What are the most valuable cards?

Charizard VMAX ($200–$500 PSA 10), Shiny Charizard V ($150–$400 PSA 10), and Gardevoir VMAX ($50–$150 PSA 10).

Is Champion’s Path a good investment?

Yes, due to Charizard-driven demand, limited product availability, and strong secondary market value.

Conclusion

Sword & Shield—Champion’s Path remains a landmark Pokémon TCG set in 2025, driven by iconic Charizard cards, Galar nostalgia, and limited product availability. From chase cards like Charizard VMAX to investment-worthy ETBs, it’s a must-have for collectors and players. Start your Champion’s Path adventure with authentic products from Card Chill and join the Pokémon TCG community today!