Weekly analysis of market trends July 28, 2025

Absol ex from Obsidian Flames has captured significant attention this week, boasting a 40.58% increase in value. This Darkness-type Ultra Rare is not only visually stunning but also offers strategic depth with its attacks. Future Sight provides tactical control over deck flow, while Cursed Slug can deliver massive damage under the right conditions, making it a threat in the late game.

From a collector’s standpoint, Absol ex appeals due to its Ultra Rare status and the enduring popularity of Darkness Pokémon. The sharp price jump suggests heightened demand, likely fueled by both competitive viability and the allure of its artwork. However, its reliance on specific hand-size conditions for peak performance may limit its universal playability.

As an investment, Absol ex stands out given its recent surge. If this trend continues, early buyers could see further appreciation, especially if the card cements itself in tournament-winning decks. Its combination of rarity, play potential, and striking design makes it a compelling addition for both collectors and investors.

Radiant Tsareena from Silver Tempest has experienced a 37.14% price increase, reflecting growing interest among both players and collectors. As a Radiant Rare, it is restricted to one per deck, enhancing its exclusivity and strategic value. Its ability, Elegant Heal, offers consistent healing across your board, making it a staple in decks seeking durability and sustainability.

The card’s appeal is bolstered by its beautiful holofoil treatment and the unique mechanics of Radiant Pokémon. Collectors are drawn to its limited print and distinctive artwork. On the downside, its Grass typing and moderate attack power mean it’s best suited for specific archetypes rather than broad competitive use.

Given its recent price movement, Radiant Tsareena is an attractive target for investors. Its role in healing-oriented decks and its collectible nature suggest continued demand, especially as meta shifts favor more resilient strategies.

Gholdengo ex from Paradox Rift is up 32.62% this week, signaling strong momentum. With a hefty 260 HP and the Coin Bonus ability, Gholdengo ex provides steady card draw, particularly potent when active. Its Make It Rain attack enables explosive turns by converting excess energy into direct damage, rewarding resource management skills.

Collectors appreciate Gholdengo ex for its Ultra Rare status and the novelty of featuring a relatively new Pokémon. The card’s price surge is likely tied to its growing presence in competitive decks that exploit its efficient attack and draw support. One caveat is its susceptibility to Fire-type counters, which may affect its long-term playability depending on meta trends.

For those looking to invest, Gholdengo ex combines competitive relevance with collector appeal. Its upward trajectory could continue as players refine strategies around its versatile toolkit, making now a potentially opportune moment to acquire it.

Durant ex from Surging Sparks has jumped 30.93% in value, highlighting renewed interest in mill and disruption strategies. Its Sudden Shearing ability allows for immediate deck disruption upon entering play, while Vengeful Crush scales damage based on opponent’s progress, punishing aggressive strategies.

The card’s Ultra Rare status and thematic art make it a desirable piece for collectors, especially those who appreciate disruptive gameplay. While it shines in niche decks, its effectiveness can be matchup-dependent, and its Grass typing leaves it vulnerable to common Fire threats.

Market-wise, Durant ex’s price spike suggests that players are experimenting with alternative win conditions. For investors, its unique mechanics and rising popularity present a solid case for acquisition, particularly if disruption decks gain traction in upcoming tournaments.

Rotom VSTAR from Crown Zenith has climbed 28.57% this week. Its Conversion Star VSTAR Power grants exceptional hand cycling, enabling players to dig for answers or combo pieces at crucial moments. Scrap Pulse synergizes with Tool-heavy strategies, offering scalable damage output and Lost Zone interactions.

Collectors find Rotom VSTAR appealing thanks to its VSTAR rarity and the fan-favorite Rotom line. The card’s versatility ensures it sees play in creative Lightning-type decks, though its reliance on Tool cards may limit its inclusion in more streamlined lists.

With its recent rise, Rotom VSTAR is worth considering for investment. Its flexible ability and unique attack can drive demand, especially as new Lost Zone and Tool synergies emerge in future sets.

Megaton Blower from Surging Sparks, an ACE SPEC Item, has increased by 27.50%. ACE SPEC cards are inherently rare—limited to one per deck—and often feature powerful effects. Megaton Blower disrupts opponents by clearing all Tools and Special Energy, plus removing a Stadium, making it a meta-shifting tech against setup-heavy strategies.

Collectors prize ACE SPEC cards due to their scarcity and game-altering potential. The card’s recent price hike reflects its growing use as a countermeasure in competitive play. However, its situational nature means it won’t fit every deck, so its demand may fluctuate with the meta.

From an investment perspective, Megaton Blower’s rarity and disruptive effect make it a strong candidate, especially as players seek answers to increasingly complex board states. Its value could rise further if the metagame continues to favor Tool and Special Energy-heavy decks.

Stoutland V from Crown Zenith has appreciated by 26.09% this week. Its Double Dip Fangs attack is highly sought after for Prize acceleration, allowing players to take extra Prizes against Basic Pokémon—a game-changing effect in many matchups. Wild Tackle offers raw power, albeit at the cost of self-damage.

As a Rare Holo V, Stoutland V holds collector value, particularly among fans of Colorless Pokémon and those who appreciate impactful gameplay mechanics. Its demand is driven by its synergy in aggressive strategies that capitalize on quick knockouts.

For investors, Stoutland V’s steady climb and utility in Prize-focused decks make it a worthwhile consideration. Its unique effect ensures it remains relevant as long as Basic Pokémon dominate the meta.