The return of Pokémon 151 booster bundles on Amazon has caught the attention of collectors, but not necessarily for the right reasons. Priced at over $60, the bundle's cost is more than double its MSRP of $26.94. While this might raise eyebrows, the rapid sell-out rate of this set makes it hard to dismiss entirely.
Pokémon TCG: 151 Booster Bundle Is Back In Stock For A Premium
Pokémon TCG: 151 Booster Bundle
Full Disclosure: MSRP is $26.94
$82.50 save 16%
$68.92 at Amazon
What draws me back to the Pokémon 151 set is not just nostalgia; it's the quality of the card art and the thoughtful integration of gameplay elements. The Illustration Rare Bulbasaur, for instance, is depicted amidst a lush jungle of giant leaves, reminiscent of a scene from a Ghibli film. It's a stunning visual that goes beyond typical card designs. Similarly, Alakazam ex is portrayed in a cluttered study, suggesting a deep focus on psychic abilities, which adds a unique charm to the card.
Charmeleon - 169/165
$30.99 at TCG Player
Bulbasaur - 166/165
$37.99 at TCG Player
Alakazam ex - 201/165
$53.99 at TCG Player
Squirtle - 170/165
$40.99 at TCG Player
Charizard ex - 183/165
$35.40 at TCG Player
The strength of this set lies in its ability to merge art with gameplay seamlessly. Cards like Blastoise ex not only have impressive abilities but also feature artwork that could be displayed in a gallery. Even Charmander has been upgraded, now boasting 70 HP, which is significant enough to withstand minor damage that would have previously knocked it out. This subtle enhancement is indicative of the set's overall thoughtful design.
Charmander - 168/165
$45.05 at TCG Player
Zapdos ex - 202/165
$60.68 at TCG Player
Blastoise ex - 200/165
$60.00 at TCG Player
Venusaur ex - 198/165
$77.73 at TCG Player
Charizard ex - 199/165
$234.99 at TCG Player
Not every card is a home run; Zapdos ex, for example, is functional but lacks the standout appeal of others. However, the overall quality remains high. Venusaur ex effectively blends functionality with artistic flair, while Squirtle's artwork convincingly places the character within a realistic ecosystem, showcasing the meticulous attention to detail in these designs.
Paying above MSRP is never ideal, but it's hard to deny the value packed into the Pokémon 151 set. For those who appreciate packs that are fun to open and offer a good chance at high-value pulls, this remains a strong choice, despite Amazon's fluctuating prices.
