For me is 151 the best set in the past years, it made me fall in love with pokemoncards again. The OG 151 pokemons will forever be the best pokemon for me because of nostalgia. It is just so timeless
Yes 151 was great, but I feel it was only created because Evolutions was so popular. Don't get me wrong, 151 > Evolutions. But when Evolutions printed...it was hard nostalgic, and was the first nostalgic set in really, well ever. And now look....we are getting new Team Rocket and Gym Pokémon sets in 2025!
Couldn't agree more about your reasoning for putting Crown Zenith so high. It's the first set in a long time that has made me feel excited to open packs, which is better than any of the past nostalgia based sets can do.
151 is hands down my favorite Pokémon TCG series! The nostalgic artwork, the classic Pokémon lineup, and the excitement of opening packs make it unbeatable. Loving every card in this set
I just started collecting Pokemon cards within the last couple weeks. I’ve played Pokemon games for years and always loved the franchise but never thought to collect the cards and I lost all my childhood cards. The modern day artworks sucked me into collecting as I think the cards are so beautiful. I also have been watching your videos nonstop to look into what to buy next. I really appreciate the work you put into this and it helps me get my collection to a good start.
Just getting back into after 25 years. 151 sucked me back, however finding many more new sets. Excited for the future with the upcoming sets we’ve been teased with. Trying to acquire all the knowledge I can. Been watching nothing but Pokemon related videos lately. 😅 takes over just as it did 25 yrs ago! Good luck everyone!
First off, I appreciate the environment you’ve built to make videos; very subtle and relaxing. You don’t have your entire/most of your collection behind you, which can be sort of distracting. I feel like Twilight Masquerade could have been on this list…it has a well balanced blend of original 151 and modern Pokémon. Artwork is amazing on commons all the way to the gold cards. It also captures Japanese culture/traditions hence the Ogerpon masks…timeless art in that line up. To tie it up, the design and colors of sealed product are nice to display if one would like. I 100% dig that Dr. Dre reference from K Dots album…it applies to a lot of aspects in life! Anywho, just started collecting again (in my 30s) and I enjoy watching your videos…have been learning a lot from your channel.
Thoughts: If we’re placing a premium on the artwork displayed in a set, then Scarlet & Violet era sets take the cake. The Pokemon Company has embraced the secret illustration rare, and in turn allowed artists to use the entire card as their canvas. Because of that, we’re now seeing more into the every day lives of Pokemon, which would’ve blown my 8-year-old brain in 1999. However, I do wish they would revitalize a few of their older themes. I know there’s a Rocket set on the horizon, but I would’ve loved to see a Gym Owner set for each generation. I don’t have any attachment to gym leaders past Gen 1, and think a part of that is due to lack of representation within the TCG (I’m not interested in the trainer cards).
Correct. Scarlet & Violet Era has truly been amazing with the artworks. I am interested to see how Generation 10 will top them, because it truly seems they are hitting the ceiling with how far they can take these card artworks! Thanks for your input, well done on winning the Mewtwo Please claim your gift by September DM me on Instagram @phillips.collectibles (preferred), or if you don't have socials, please email, the latter can be found on my UA-cam Profile.
Celebrations is my top pick. I bought the Ultra Premium collection and have kept it sealed till now. The dream is that my future child would join me in the hobby and we can open it together maybe around a decade from now in Pokémon’s 40th anniversary.
I played as a kid and only recently got back into collecting. I love all the original Neo-era sets. Everything from the shining Pokemon to the OG moonbreon. I think the art styles were great and it did a lot to keep interest in the game. Great points on your video. I don’t know anything about the sets past crystal guardians, so you have definitely given me some sets to check out. Keep up the good work.
My favorite Era of cards also. Neo genesis and destiny's was awesome. That's actually when I stopped collecting as a kid.. and it's crazy cause I got back into collecting after 151 was gone from shelves :/
@@bradclark3198 I’m in the same boat, I feel like just I missed some really cool sets. Looking forward to the new team rocket set though. Hoping for the return of dark Pokemon.
The nostalgia is real! I remember setting aside my pokemon cards and started playing yugioh enjoying the first edition blue eyes white dragon. And then pokemon made a huge comback. I appreciate videos like these because of the information and value you are providing your audience. Keep it up!
Love the video! I was surprised not to see Team Up make the cut. The set was our intro to Tag Team cards, they have beautiful trainer arts and the set includes some big names like Gengar, Pikachu and Eevee….also, I couldn’t agree more with you on Crown Zenith
I just started my Pokemon collections 2 months ago. With the Pokemon 151 as my first master sets. Ever since im so addicted to opening packs, started my Paldean Fates and Stellar Miracle sets now. Been following this channel to help me learn about the collections and investments. It's been very enjoyable getting all the informations from you. Thanks alot, your channel is definitely part of my pokemon collection journey.
I think this is a great video for someone like me, who just dived back in to pokemon after like 20 years. It's a great recap of things I've missed, and what sets to look for, which is extra helpful because trying to pick packs when you don't know what's in anything can be daunting.
You can tell he has put serious thought into this. I've only been a part of the hobby since last year, and any of these slabs would be the top of my PC
As a day one player and collector myself I can tell he is above the age of 34 and is just like me . We been around since the very first packs were cracked !
I have to agree with you about 151. I keep finding new people who are collecting, and they each say. 151 brought me back. 151 and base for me are the top 2. Great video! Your hard work always pays off. :)
Awesome video! It was really cool to see some sets and cards I had forgotten about. I am 100% with you that CZ and 151 are the top modern sets. Having all the top cards in my top loader binder looks so damn good! And for 151 having the three starter evolution lines on a 9 pocket page is chef’s kiss. The only other things I would’ve mentioned that puts CZ as one of my favorites is the pricing. The top card in the whole set is about $100 USD these days, and many of them you can grab for a lot cheaper. I think it’s very attainable for a large amount of people. 151 on the other hand is getting prohibitively expensive. Buying singles is still relatively affordable but the sealed products are crazy. The only set that I wish I saw on here as well would be Team Up. I feel like that’s pretty iconic to me! Haha
I think I stopped collecting as a kid right after Jungle and never gave TCG another glance up until 151 came out. Opening packs brought back the good old days and I got hooked. My aim is master sets now. Completed the 151, still got 10 more cards for Crown Zenith and now contemplating on which set to go for next.
This is an amazing and well thought of video. The only thing I would switch up is one and two as I believe you are right when you said that crown zenith feels like it will be the last set pokemon releases forever.
I know that a ton of people love collecting vintage cards for either rarity and/or artwork. I personally love collecting modern art rares and I feel that 151 really is a good bridge between vintage and modern. There's a reason why so many people say they got back into collecting Pokémon cards because of this set. I would love to see Pokémon do something similar with other vintage sets to bring them back into the limelight!
Thanks for the video. For someone who got into collecting in sword and shield it gave me an insight into some of these great older sets. I agree about Crown Zenith and on top it is such a generous set. Having ripped a bunch of packs of different sets with my kids I've at times I've seen some disappointment with a rough set of pulls, but I can safely say we've never not had a good time with a CZ etb.
I have recently restarted my interest in PTCG collection after stopping in 2003. Your video has provided me much need insight what has progressed throughout the years. (20!) So much has changed since 2003. Thanks for the vid!
2 місяці тому+3
Hearing the history of some of the older sets that some never opened/experienced was great! But I still feel like Hidden Fates could be in the lower end of the top 10! There was shinies, (baby shinies and full art ones including Charizard, Rayquaza, Eeveelutions, Mewtwo, Lucario, Greninja and other fan favorites) there was awesome full art trainers, tag team cards plus an epic mosaic promo of the legendary birds in the ETB. It was also a set that came out not long before the pandemic which made tons of reprints due to the popularity and demand of the set and pokemon cards as well.
Its true, Hidden Fates was definitely one I was looking at. I may need to do a Top 20 in the next few months, Hidden Fates was a substantial set for the hobby.
Wow super interesting video! I did grow up with base set, fossil, jungle and continued as a kid up until Neo Destiny and only came back to Pokémon collecting in 2021 with the SWSH era. My knowledge is quite limited for all the sets between 2003-2013 so it was very nice to get a presentation of those sets and how amazing they were! Thanks for the awesome content! 🙏 It would be so hard for me to put together a top 10 list. Highlights are for sure: Base Set (nostalgia), Evolving Skies (modern goat), 151 (epic set) 😁
Neo Destiny is my favourite set of all time. Nice mix of nostalgia, new Pokémon from the original 151 and the shinies looking absolutely gorgeous. Perfecto.
Getting into collecting cards for the first time! I was mostly into the games as a kid and I’m raging I’ve missed the 151 release, hoping for a reprint! But your videos have been a great help to understand the TCG so far! This was a great video for getting a bit of a history lesson on the top sets! Thank you!!
I personally think 80% or higher of sealed collectors do not care how evolving skies looks like. I agree where I hate the yellow and green colors, but most sealed collectors care more about the price behind it than looks.
@@RichPokePicks i remember opening EvoSkies when it came out and being relatively disappointed and underwhelmed with the cards and art- especially with the pull rates. But by far my least favorite is Battle Styles - I dont get that one at all.
I like the green and yellow quite a lot 🤷♂️ It's also a weird take. Sealed collectors care about the value and the cards inside. The box being anything outside of the standard white is a plus. ES, Fusion, and Chilling all look cool on a shelf.
I like the way you deliver the story for each sets, not surprising that majority of them are vintage sets which is understandable. They deserves the recognition after surviving the test of time and live to tell the tale. Truly genius!
I must be the only one who loves Neo genesis and Neo destiny! It was the sets I missed out on . Love the content and it gave me loads to think about and I want to go backwards and collect rather than forwards.
Crystal guardians! Beautiful set love going through my master set and looking at the art and moves of the pokemon which were the same as when I was playing the game. Great vid 👌
I recently got back into collecting Pokémon Cards and tbh didn't want to look back at the last 24 years to understand the different sets. My plan was to start with current and go forward, mostly due to the financial restriction to get into older sets. This video is helpful to understand some of that history and peaks my interested into expanding backwards a bit more. Thanks for the time and effort!
Thanks for all your great videos! I started collecting Pokemon again only recently after stopping after generation 1. The nostalgia of 151 for me accompanied by the modern artistic spin and the plethora of variety of art styles make this set one of my current favourites, apart from base set! You make a great point though that it is extremely difficult to remove oneself from the nostalgia of the early generations as they are linked not only to childhood memories of the card game but are compounded by their connection to the TV show (watched before going to school) and the gameboy games! Great list and explanations nonetheless!
I always look forward to hearing your opinions on individual cards, sets and the hobby as a whole. I started collecting Pokemon after I was cutting them into pieces of art. Now i have a large collection graded cards, etbs and unopened boxes....so fun!!!
Wow, this video is really something. I never really looked at older sets in my past but this really made me appreciate the older ones I overlooked. I think I still like the newer sets more due to the art but wow, I really think the history of pokemon is facinating just from this video. Amazing stuff my man.
Thanks for the list and all the details and background you included to support your decisions! I have a soft spot for the Skyridge and Aquapolis artworks (also have a soft spot for gen 2), but really like the set-up of the Gym heroes and challenge sets, which makes collecting those sets more fun and rewarding to me, completing every gym leader's team one by one. I also really enjoyed the Delta Species when I was younger, especially Crystal Guardians with its Charizard and Grovyle being my favorites
I can see you put so much time and effort in your selections and in this video. I love the explanation. I’m sure you might get grief on the selections but I do agree with what you have mentioned regarding crown, 151, base set and evo skies. Some of these sets, I didn’t even know about since I wasn’t in the hobby. I did learn a lot. Fire video.
Thank you for all the info I've recently been given on your channel! Newly started collecting the new Pokemon TCG along with my old base cards. It's been eye opening
I just started collecting pokemon and i can honestly say im in love with some of the illustration cards in paldea evolved. Everyone keeps talking about 151 and i understand but i think PE is just as good if not better. Also, i might just be a beginner but i absolutely love your videos man, please keep it up and continue helping beginners like myself get a better understanding when it comes to collecting pokemon cards!🙏
But as i was saying, im a beginner when it comes to collecting and i have no idea if 151 will gain crazy value or something in the future so i cant be too sure😅
This is a great video! I really love Pokemon and just started collecting recently, after kinda sorta following for many years. Pulled my first Zapdos EX from 151, so that’s my favorite set of all time haha.
I do think this kind of video is extremly important, we can see how the hobby of pokemon collection have changed, but at the same time, still the same at the core! How some sets have some banger cards and some sets have a few banger cards, trainers, waifus, well so much to say about this! Great video from start to the end
Just yesterday (yes yesterday) I have started collecting pokemon. While I have opened up packs in the past, watching all your videos consecutively gave me a spark ⚡️. I absolutely agree with crown zenith I believe without it being over printed it would be up there with evolving skies price!.
I got interested again in Pokemon TCG a few days ago and I am glad it made me discover your channel. Great quality content, keep up the good work with your videos!
Been loving the videos, I appreciate your style and delivery. It appeals to a more mature audience and I think its what sets you apart from other tubers I've watched in the space, so keep it up! As someone who is newly back to the hobby since collecting as a kid, this video was super informative. Interestingly, while I love the original 151 generation and the old cards are iconic, I think the quality of the modern cards versus the classics feels like night and day (at least aesthetically) with the new unique art styles, the full arts, etc. I know I personally find myself gravitating towards the more modern sets, which I am somewhat surprised about. I think it goes to show a set like 151 and others have more going for them besides just the nostalgia factor!
151 brings me back in collecting pokemon cards. But sadly I'm kinda late. But it hit my core spot for loving pokemon in my childhood years. Brings back many memories! Like side hustling of selling food with my classmates just to have enough money to purchase a pack every day! Nostalgia overload indeed!❤
I got really into collecting cards this year, I have a lot of random Pokémon cards from my childhood, but this is the year it really started. I opened one ETB of Crown Zenith, and got the Galarian Gallery Giratina in one of my first packs. I guess that settled my entusiasm for this hobby, but Crown Zenith have never let me down on hits after that first ETB. Evolving Skies is also one of my favorite sets, and I'm trying to collect from it every now and then, even if I got a little late to the party. Because I started this late, I don't know a lot about older sets, so I love watching your videos which gets me into a bigger variety of Pokémon TCG history. Keep up the good work :D
Phil, been watching since you’ve started and it’s a joy seeing the channel grow. My favorite set(s) as of lately would probably be lost origins and one from the childhood would likely be the neo destiny/ relevations era. I love the new ar’s but the vintage foils always are lovely to look at
Great list. I agree on many of the choices and some of my favourites are base set, 151 and Crown zenith. I also like Skyridge alot, but that might be a bit of nostalgia, but I really like the Gengar from that set.
It's been over 20 years since I last collected as a kid. The artwork and nostalgia of Crown Zenith and Galarian Crown Zenith were what brought me back.
i’ve loved pokemon since i was a kid. played every single game, and collected some cards when they first came out. i fell out of it, watched my younger brother pick it up, and then this year i discovered 151. it’s completely reinvigorated my passion for pokemon - through the unbelievable art and reimagining of the pokemon i first fell in love with. absolutely fell for the nostalgia bait but im happy for it 😅
Loved this video. As someone who has only returned back to TCG recently this was a real nice refresher of some of the great sets over the years 👍🏻 It has to be Gym Heroes for me. The art style being unique and consistent across the board, the tie into the anime was amazing but as someone who spent countless hours on the GBA games it was amazing to have cards like Blaine’s Moltres and have that link to ol’Blaine.
For me it’s all about the artwork, there’s still something really beautiful about the neo and e card sets. I think some of the newer sets are touching on this style again which is what got me back into collecting
I think this is a great piece of content, particularly for a lot of us folk who are new back into the scene after 20 odd years, this is bridging a gap in my knowledge and timeline about different gens and sets of cards and raises awareness about what's out there in the Poke TCG universe, great work keep it up brother! 🙏🏼
I havent touched pokemon since it first came out as i had no money as a kid, 20 years later i am now in a much better place in life and finally got my first ever pokemon 151 product, an etb. Cant wait to start with this hobby again ❤
I've collected cards since the 90's mainly NBA and Marvel). I've only just started collecting Pokemon for a bit of fun and to get my daughters into collecting. Fortunately I don't have the nostalgia factor 😂, but the information regarding the top 10 is invaluable mate 🤙👍
Pretty great list man! Always appreciate the thought you put into these videos. Out of these my personal fav is Gym Heroes. I’m actually in the process of hunting down the whole set. I think the art and the pokemon themselves never looked cooler. Special shoutout to 151 for bringing me back into the hobby also!
I definitely think that crown zenith is an insane set. The amazing pull rates with insane artworks is amazing. Hopefully I’ll open some when i get the chance and i see why you put it so high. Keep up with the good content!🎉
Thank you for such a well thought out list!! The detail you put into this list is greatly appreciated. Look forward to your future videos! Currently my favorite sets are 151 and crown zenith. I really love the special illustrations putting Pokémon into an environment now. Make the cards come alive.
Being a long term collector. I really appreciate the new art work in all these new set. But rebuilding my collection for my kids. Watching the next generation fall in love. I still love the original set and the og jungle set.
Crown Zenith is my personal favorite set of all time in the modern era solely because theres so much variety in it. I was on my way back from a trip to san antonio and i went to a store to get some stuff and picked up a tin to crack open, mind you I haven't bought cards in 3 years and the set looked promising. ripped it all and pulled the gold palkia, that one card got me obsessed with the set and collecting overall. At the moment, im chasing the paldean fates charizard with 2 gardevoirs in my pocket, and im not planning on stopping! That one decision to buy the tin opened so many doors for me and really made these past years better and enjoyable with such a hobby!
It was a pleasant surprise to see call of legends so high on this list! I thought I loved the set purely through nostalgia from pulling that shiny deoxys as a kid. It was a great order overall, and it was nice to see a non-biased list
As you said, nostalgia hits hard. The reason why 151 has one of the highest demand amongst mondern sets is because of nostalgia; kids who grew up in the 90s/2000s are now adults with disposable income and are willing to spend big just to chase this set. For all we know, gen 9 focused sets may be the new "151" in 20 years... 😅
My favourite set is Crown Zenith. I am a new collector and I’m enjoying collecting A LOT. Crown zenith’s pull rates are really good and as a new collector, it’s a lot of fun getting hit after hit. I only have about 15 cards in my collection of hits so far but I’ve learnt a lot about Pokémon TGC so far!
Bravo on the video! Super nice content. 👏 I came back to this collecting thing with 151 and have since been weirded out on how it seems every major UA-camr doesn’t give this set, or S&V in general, the respect it deserves. I even feel sets like Obsidian Flames are super underrated! It has some truly great looking cards! Kind of seems like most of the big UA-camrs are still stuck on Sword&Shield and I can see how following up an era like that would be a daunting task! Maybe it’s just a matter of me being new to “modern collecting” or maybe it’s just a matter of time. Again, great video! Always a pleasure. Surprised that you didn’t include any of the last 3 wotc sets!
Thank you this video helped me figure out where to start collecting as I have been wanting to get into it with my sister for a long time but there's just so much out there
Agree with you 100%! Sometimes part of me thinks 151 and Evolving Skies both got too many chase cards and it's really not fair for the rest of the sets. Also, like you, I LOVE Crown Zenith and it's probably my favorite set.
I was really into pokemon card colleting when i was younger then grew into mtg but here i am back the first set im buying is the 151 set because it truely looks stunning in my eyes
Really hate that I missed out on 151 when it was still widely available. Just recently got into collecting so I’ve started with Stellar Crown and Surging Sparks and I think the artwork for these sets are great.
Crown Zenith was the most fun when it came out (and maybe still is) because several sets before had left me wanting more.. CZ re-energized me to keep opening packs and not just leave them sealed.
151 has gotten me back into card collecting for the first time since I was a child. There's something so cathartic about indulging in the things I could barely afford so many years ago and looking back at the cards that I (mostly) kept in excellent condition. Even managed to dig up a very clean 1st edition holo Dragonite from the Fossil set which I'm so excited to get graded!
Nostalgia or not nothing beats the OG boosters from the pack art to how simple the cards used to look. i remember the starters deck with machamp and ninetales used to stare at them everytime i seen thinking how beautiful those hoil cards were. But we were poor and my parents couldnt afford until one day on chirstmas i got a ninetales starter deck. I still have that ninetales today and both the card and pokemon are near and dear to my heart now. Was alil sad to see ninetales not get that much love in the new twilight masquerade set. 😢
Look out for (All 3 awarded)
What did you think of this list?
I learned about a lot of vintage sets I'd never heard of!
I really liked the list, very informative
Excellent list my guy, thanks for the outstanding content!
Great list⚡️ i was so happy to see my favourite set 👑in that list 😁🥳
Great list with great rational. However imo I’d put base set 1st as you said Pokemon wouldn’t be what it is today without it 🤔😄
For me is 151 the best set in the past years, it made me fall in love with pokemoncards again. The OG 151 pokemons will forever be the best pokemon for me because of nostalgia. It is just so timeless
Yes 151 was great, but I feel it was only created because Evolutions was so popular. Don't get me wrong, 151 > Evolutions. But when Evolutions printed...it was hard nostalgic, and was the first nostalgic set in really, well ever. And now look....we are getting new Team Rocket and Gym Pokémon sets in 2025!
151 is the bomb it actually feels like the OG but better with the SIR, I had to buy the single Alakazam one even in a psa 9 it’s too damn cool.
@@MrWhitmen1981 facts bro!
@MrWhitmen1981 I also bought myself the Alakazam lol loved the card. I wish reverse holo master balls were an English thing also.
100% agree 151 got me into card collecting, I’m trying to master set 151
Having Call of Legends as the best set ever is definitely one of the hottest takes I have ever heard lol
Haha, it most certainly is. I love it though!
Naw it’s definitely top 5 for me
Having opened a booster box of that set 10 years ago, I really really wish I’d have kept it sealed
My dad bought me a pack from a card shop when I was so young and didn’t know the value of the shiny Lugia 😭
Since I just recently started collecting pokemon. My favorite set is Crown Zenith. Because of pull rate and beautiful art 🙂
The problem is that it does not have much regular cards. There will be too much repetitions from pack to pack
Mine to I thing is the funniest I’ve ever opened
@@CyrilViXPthe rare cards and not every print is a grade 10 or pristine 10
Couldn't agree more about your reasoning for putting Crown Zenith so high. It's the first set in a long time that has made me feel excited to open packs, which is better than any of the past nostalgia based sets can do.
It's the best set ever made. It's gorgeous. The new sets are much better than the old sets, regardless of nostalgia. The art is spectacular.
151 is hands down my favorite Pokémon TCG series! The nostalgic artwork, the classic Pokémon lineup, and the excitement of opening packs make it unbeatable. Loving every card in this set
Couldn't agree more
151 is my favorite. I grew up with these, but 151 got me back into collecting. The full arts are so sick
I’m so glad they gave us older kids a chance at the base set again with 151. It’s been a blast reliving this iconic part of my childhood.
My top 7 sets are
7: Generations
6: Ancient origins
5: Crown Zenith
4: Unified minds
3: Evolutions
2: Hidden Fates
1: Cosmic eclipse
I just started collecting Pokemon cards within the last couple weeks. I’ve played Pokemon games for years and always loved the franchise but never thought to collect the cards and I lost all my childhood cards. The modern day artworks sucked me into collecting as I think the cards are so beautiful. I also have been watching your videos nonstop to look into what to buy next. I really appreciate the work you put into this and it helps me get my collection to a good start.
Just getting back into after 25 years. 151 sucked me back, however finding many more new sets. Excited for the future with the upcoming sets we’ve been teased with.
Trying to acquire all the knowledge I can. Been watching nothing but Pokemon related videos lately. 😅 takes over just as it did 25 yrs ago!
Good luck everyone!
same man its been about a year and i still find new cards that change my taste all the time
Right here with ya bud
Haha same here
Literally just went down the Pokemon card rabbit hole a few days ago and now I’m here after 25 years looking to get into my first set 😂
First off, I appreciate the environment you’ve built to make videos; very subtle and relaxing. You don’t have your entire/most of your collection behind you, which can be sort of distracting.
I feel like Twilight Masquerade could have been on this list…it has a well balanced blend of original 151 and modern Pokémon. Artwork is amazing on commons all the way to the gold cards. It also captures Japanese culture/traditions hence the Ogerpon masks…timeless art in that line up. To tie it up, the design and colors of sealed product are nice to display if one would like. I 100% dig that Dr. Dre reference from K Dots album…it applies to a lot of aspects in life!
Anywho, just started collecting again (in my 30s) and I enjoy watching your videos…have been learning a lot from your channel.
Thoughts:
If we’re placing a premium on the artwork displayed in a set, then Scarlet & Violet era sets take the cake. The Pokemon Company has embraced the secret illustration rare, and in turn allowed artists to use the entire card as their canvas. Because of that, we’re now seeing more into the every day lives of Pokemon, which would’ve blown my 8-year-old brain in 1999.
However, I do wish they would revitalize a few of their older themes. I know there’s a Rocket set on the horizon, but I would’ve loved to see a Gym Owner set for each generation.
I don’t have any attachment to gym leaders past Gen 1, and think a part of that is due to lack of representation within the TCG (I’m not interested in the trainer cards).
there is actually a gym hero revamp in the near future released recently for next year
@@jackattack347 yeah I saw that a couple hours ago. Excited for it, but I hope it’s done right. Would love to see commons and uncommons included.
@@ryneberthelot463 agreed could easily be fumbled. Gotta give love to normal arts and holos
Correct. Scarlet & Violet Era has truly been amazing with the artworks. I am interested to see how Generation 10 will top them, because it truly seems they are hitting the ceiling with how far they can take these card artworks!
Thanks for your input, well done on winning the Mewtwo
Please claim your gift by September DM me on Instagram @phillips.collectibles (preferred), or if you don't have socials, please email, the latter can be found on my UA-cam Profile.
Celebrations is my top pick. I bought the Ultra Premium collection and have kept it sealed till now. The dream is that my future child would join me in the hobby and we can open it together maybe around a decade from now in Pokémon’s 40th anniversary.
That's awesome mate. I hope that works out for you. My daughter and I collect and its great.
I played as a kid and only recently got back into collecting. I love all the original Neo-era sets. Everything from the shining Pokemon to the OG moonbreon. I think the art styles were great and it did a lot to keep interest in the game.
Great points on your video. I don’t know anything about the sets past crystal guardians, so you have definitely given me some sets to check out. Keep up the good work.
My favorite Era of cards also. Neo genesis and destiny's was awesome. That's actually when I stopped collecting as a kid.. and it's crazy cause I got back into collecting after 151 was gone from shelves :/
@@bradclark3198 I’m in the same boat, I feel like just I missed some really cool sets. Looking forward to the new team rocket set though. Hoping for the return of dark Pokemon.
Holon Phantoms and Team Rocket Returns have got to be up there for me.
My mom sold my base set collection years ago at a garage sale for next to nothing 😭 151 got me back into the hobby after YEARS and I’m hooked!
The nostalgia is real! I remember setting aside my pokemon cards and started playing yugioh enjoying the first edition blue eyes white dragon. And then pokemon made a huge comback. I appreciate videos like these because of the information and value you are providing your audience. Keep it up!
Love the video! I was surprised not to see Team Up make the cut. The set was our intro to Tag Team cards, they have beautiful trainer arts and the set includes some big names like Gengar, Pikachu and Eevee….also, I couldn’t agree more with you on Crown Zenith
Crown Zenith is amazing and so underrated. In time people will flock to it.
I contemplate buying more of CZ all the time. Still find it so cheap
Definitely not underrated 😂
agreed
I just started my Pokemon collections 2 months ago. With the Pokemon 151 as my first master sets. Ever since im so addicted to opening packs, started my Paldean Fates and Stellar Miracle sets now. Been following this channel to help me learn about the collections and investments. It's been very enjoyable getting all the informations from you. Thanks alot, your channel is definitely part of my pokemon collection journey.
Appreciate your support andy! And yes, opening packs is incredibly addictive!
I think this is a great video for someone like me, who just dived back in to pokemon after like 20 years. It's a great recap of things I've missed, and what sets to look for, which is extra helpful because trying to pick packs when you don't know what's in anything can be daunting.
You can tell he has put serious thought into this. I've only been a part of the hobby since last year, and any of these slabs would be the top of my PC
As a day one player and collector myself I can tell he is above the age of 34 and is just like me . We been around since the very first packs were cracked !
I have to agree with you about 151. I keep finding new people who are collecting, and they each say. 151 brought me back. 151 and base for me are the top 2. Great video! Your hard work always pays off. :)
Awesome video! It was really cool to see some sets and cards I had forgotten about.
I am 100% with you that CZ and 151 are the top modern sets. Having all the top cards in my top loader binder looks so damn good! And for 151 having the three starter evolution lines on a 9 pocket page is chef’s kiss.
The only other things I would’ve mentioned that puts CZ as one of my favorites is the pricing. The top card in the whole set is about $100 USD these days, and many of them you can grab for a lot cheaper. I think it’s very attainable for a large amount of people. 151 on the other hand is getting prohibitively expensive. Buying singles is still relatively affordable but the sealed products are crazy.
The only set that I wish I saw on here as well would be Team Up. I feel like that’s pretty iconic to me! Haha
I think I stopped collecting as a kid right after Jungle and never gave TCG another glance up until 151 came out. Opening packs brought back the good old days and I got hooked. My aim is master sets now. Completed the 151, still got 10 more cards for Crown Zenith and now contemplating on which set to go for next.
This is an amazing and well thought of video. The only thing I would switch up is one and two as I believe you are right when you said that crown zenith feels like it will be the last set pokemon releases forever.
I know that a ton of people love collecting vintage cards for either rarity and/or artwork. I personally love collecting modern art rares and I feel that 151 really is a good bridge between vintage and modern. There's a reason why so many people say they got back into collecting Pokémon cards because of this set. I would love to see Pokémon do something similar with other vintage sets to bring them back into the limelight!
Thanks for the video. For someone who got into collecting in sword and shield it gave me an insight into some of these great older sets. I agree about Crown Zenith and on top it is such a generous set. Having ripped a bunch of packs of different sets with my kids I've at times I've seen some disappointment with a rough set of pulls, but I can safely say we've never not had a good time with a CZ etb.
I have recently restarted my interest in PTCG collection after stopping in 2003. Your video has provided me much need insight what has progressed throughout the years. (20!) So much has changed since 2003. Thanks for the vid!
Hearing the history of some of the older sets that some never opened/experienced was great! But I still feel like Hidden Fates could be in the lower end of the top 10! There was shinies, (baby shinies and full art ones including Charizard, Rayquaza, Eeveelutions, Mewtwo, Lucario, Greninja and other fan favorites) there was awesome full art trainers, tag team cards plus an epic mosaic promo of the legendary birds in the ETB. It was also a set that came out not long before the pandemic which made tons of reprints due to the popularity and demand of the set and pokemon cards as well.
Its true, Hidden Fates was definitely one I was looking at. I may need to do a Top 20 in the next few months, Hidden Fates was a substantial set for the hobby.
Wow super interesting video! I did grow up with base set, fossil, jungle and continued as a kid up until Neo Destiny and only came back to Pokémon collecting in 2021 with the SWSH era. My knowledge is quite limited for all the sets between 2003-2013 so it was very nice to get a presentation of those sets and how amazing they were! Thanks for the awesome content! 🙏 It would be so hard for me to put together a top 10 list. Highlights are for sure: Base Set (nostalgia), Evolving Skies (modern goat), 151 (epic set) 😁
Neo Destiny is my favourite set of all time. Nice mix of nostalgia, new Pokémon from the original 151 and the shinies looking absolutely gorgeous. Perfecto.
Getting into collecting cards for the first time! I was mostly into the games as a kid and I’m raging I’ve missed the 151 release, hoping for a reprint!
But your videos have been a great help to understand the TCG so far! This was a great video for getting a bit of a history lesson on the top sets! Thank you!!
I never bought any of these back in the day but I can't believe he didn't mention Expedition, Skyridge, Team Rocket, Neo Destiny.
I personally think 80% or higher of sealed collectors do not care how evolving skies looks like. I agree where I hate the yellow and green colors, but most sealed collectors care more about the price behind it than looks.
@@RichPokePicks i remember opening EvoSkies when it came out and being relatively disappointed and underwhelmed with the cards and art- especially with the pull rates. But by far my least favorite is Battle Styles - I dont get that one at all.
I like the green and yellow quite a lot 🤷♂️
It's also a weird take. Sealed collectors care about the value and the cards inside. The box being anything outside of the standard white is a plus. ES, Fusion, and Chilling all look cool on a shelf.
@@zacharymutter8432Absolutely agree
I like the way you deliver the story for each sets, not surprising that majority of them are vintage sets which is understandable. They deserves the recognition after surviving the test of time and live to tell the tale. Truly genius!
I must be the only one who loves Neo genesis and Neo destiny! It was the sets I missed out on .
Love the content and it gave me loads to think about and I want to go backwards and collect rather than forwards.
Crystal guardians! Beautiful set love going through my master set and looking at the art and moves of the pokemon which were the same as when I was playing the game.
Great vid 👌
Such a cool set! Thanks for tuning in.
Great video! I 151 has just felt so nostalgic for me, I remember opening base set when I was seven years old. 151 is my favorite new set
I recently got back into collecting Pokémon Cards and tbh didn't want to look back at the last 24 years to understand the different sets. My plan was to start with current and go forward, mostly due to the financial restriction to get into older sets.
This video is helpful to understand some of that history and peaks my interested into expanding backwards a bit more. Thanks for the time and effort!
Thanks for all your great videos! I started collecting Pokemon again only recently after stopping after generation 1. The nostalgia of 151 for me accompanied by the modern artistic spin and the plethora of variety of art styles make this set one of my current favourites, apart from base set! You make a great point though that it is extremely difficult to remove oneself from the nostalgia of the early generations as they are linked not only to childhood memories of the card game but are compounded by their connection to the TV show (watched before going to school) and the gameboy games! Great list and explanations nonetheless!
I always look forward to hearing your opinions on individual cards, sets and the hobby as a whole. I started collecting Pokemon after I was cutting them into pieces of art. Now i have a large collection graded cards, etbs and unopened boxes....so fun!!!
Wow, this video is really something. I never really looked at older sets in my past but this really made me appreciate the older ones I overlooked. I think I still like the newer sets more due to the art but wow, I really think the history of pokemon is facinating just from this video. Amazing stuff my man.
Thanks for the list and all the details and background you included to support your decisions! I have a soft spot for the Skyridge and Aquapolis artworks (also have a soft spot for gen 2), but really like the set-up of the Gym heroes and challenge sets, which makes collecting those sets more fun and rewarding to me, completing every gym leader's team one by one. I also really enjoyed the Delta Species when I was younger, especially Crystal Guardians with its Charizard and Grovyle being my favorites
I can see you put so much time and effort in your selections and in this video. I love the explanation. I’m sure you might get grief on the selections but I do agree with what you have mentioned regarding crown, 151, base set and evo skies. Some of these sets, I didn’t even know about since I wasn’t in the hobby. I did learn a lot. Fire video.
Mate the effort you put into these videos really shows. Super high effort planning and editing. Great stuff.
Thank you for all the info I've recently been given on your channel! Newly started collecting the new Pokemon TCG along with my old base cards. It's been eye opening
The full art cards are what brought me back to collecting
And they just keep getting better.
Awesome video, I recently started to collect the cards so I'm mainly focusing on 151.
I just started collecting pokemon and i can honestly say im in love with some of the illustration cards in paldea evolved. Everyone keeps talking about 151 and i understand but i think PE is just as good if not better.
Also, i might just be a beginner but i absolutely love your videos man, please keep it up and continue helping beginners like myself get a better understanding when it comes to collecting pokemon cards!🙏
But as i was saying, im a beginner when it comes to collecting and i have no idea if 151 will gain crazy value or something in the future so i cant be too sure😅
This is a great video! I really love Pokemon and just started collecting recently, after kinda sorta following for many years. Pulled my first Zapdos EX from 151, so that’s my favorite set of all time haha.
i believe in a couple years lost origin will come close to this list due to alt arts and general aesthetic of the set
I love this style of editing. Keep up the good work!
I always loved the artwork on the packs. My favorite is boundaries crossed from black and white, the colors used there and the art style were crazy.
As a new collector, this video has been great! I just bought my first few backs of 151 and I can't wait for them to get here! Thanks for all the info!
I do think this kind of video is extremly important, we can see how the hobby of pokemon collection have changed, but at the same time, still the same at the core!
How some sets have some banger cards and some sets have a few banger cards, trainers, waifus, well so much to say about this!
Great video from start to the end
Just yesterday (yes yesterday) I have started collecting pokemon. While I have opened up packs in the past, watching all your videos consecutively gave me a spark ⚡️. I absolutely agree with crown zenith I believe without it being over printed it would be up there with evolving skies price!.
Nostalgia wise it’s 151; bringing back the originals but I’m quite attached to crown zenith lately. Keep up the videos🔥
I got interested again in Pokemon TCG a few days ago and I am glad it made me discover your channel. Great quality content, keep up the good work with your videos!
Been loving the videos, I appreciate your style and delivery. It appeals to a more mature audience and I think its what sets you apart from other tubers I've watched in the space, so keep it up! As someone who is newly back to the hobby since collecting as a kid, this video was super informative. Interestingly, while I love the original 151 generation and the old cards are iconic, I think the quality of the modern cards versus the classics feels like night and day (at least aesthetically) with the new unique art styles, the full arts, etc. I know I personally find myself gravitating towards the more modern sets, which I am somewhat surprised about. I think it goes to show a set like 151 and others have more going for them besides just the nostalgia factor!
151 brings me back in collecting pokemon cards. But sadly I'm kinda late. But it hit my core spot for loving pokemon in my childhood years. Brings back many memories! Like side hustling of selling food with my classmates just to have enough money to purchase a pack every day! Nostalgia overload indeed!❤
I got really into collecting cards this year, I have a lot of random Pokémon cards from my childhood, but this is the year it really started. I opened one ETB of Crown Zenith, and got the Galarian Gallery Giratina in one of my first packs. I guess that settled my entusiasm for this hobby, but Crown Zenith have never let me down on hits after that first ETB. Evolving Skies is also one of my favorite sets, and I'm trying to collect from it every now and then, even if I got a little late to the party. Because I started this late, I don't know a lot about older sets, so I love watching your videos which gets me into a bigger variety of Pokémon TCG history. Keep up the good work :D
Phil, been watching since you’ve started and it’s a joy seeing the channel grow. My favorite set(s) as of lately would probably be lost origins and one from the childhood would likely be the neo destiny/ relevations era. I love the new ar’s but the vintage foils always are lovely to look at
Great list. I agree on many of the choices and some of my favourites are base set, 151 and Crown zenith. I also like Skyridge alot, but that might be a bit of nostalgia, but I really like the Gengar from that set.
It's been over 20 years since I last collected as a kid. The artwork and nostalgia of Crown Zenith and Galarian Crown Zenith were what brought me back.
A great list! I’m sure these were hard to narrow down to just 10, especially with the nostalgia vs artwork factor 🔥🔥🔥
Legendary Treasures I believe is one of the best sets from the amazing commitment to the black and white Pokémon to its radiant collection 10/10 set
i’ve loved pokemon since i was a kid. played every single game, and collected some cards when they first came out. i fell out of it, watched my younger brother pick it up, and then this year i discovered 151. it’s completely reinvigorated my passion for pokemon - through the unbelievable art and reimagining of the pokemon i first fell in love with. absolutely fell for the nostalgia bait but im happy for it 😅
Loved this video. As someone who has only returned back to TCG recently this was a real nice refresher of some of the great sets over the years 👍🏻
It has to be Gym Heroes for me. The art style being unique and consistent across the board, the tie into the anime was amazing but as someone who spent countless hours on the GBA games it was amazing to have cards like Blaine’s Moltres and have that link to ol’Blaine.
For me it’s all about the artwork, there’s still something really beautiful about the neo and e card sets. I think some of the newer sets are touching on this style again which is what got me back into collecting
I think this is a great piece of content, particularly for a lot of us folk who are new back into the scene after 20 odd years, this is bridging a gap in my knowledge and timeline about different gens and sets of cards and raises awareness about what's out there in the Poke TCG universe, great work keep it up brother! 🙏🏼
I havent touched pokemon since it first came out as i had no money as a kid, 20 years later i am now in a much better place in life and finally got my first ever pokemon 151 product, an etb. Cant wait to start with this hobby again ❤
151 got me back into collecting but not only by myself this time but with the kids. It’s an amazing set
I've collected cards since the 90's mainly NBA and Marvel). I've only just started collecting Pokemon for a bit of fun and to get my daughters into collecting. Fortunately I don't have the nostalgia factor 😂, but the information regarding the top 10 is invaluable mate 🤙👍
This has to be the most well thought out ranking video I've ever seen. Great job!
Pretty great list man! Always appreciate the thought you put into these videos. Out of these my personal fav is Gym Heroes. I’m actually in the process of hunting down the whole set. I think the art and the pokemon themselves never looked cooler. Special shoutout to 151 for bringing me back into the hobby also!
There is so much thought and effort put into this content. Awesome list. Thank you
I definitely think that crown zenith is an insane set. The amazing pull rates with insane artworks is amazing. Hopefully I’ll open some when i get the chance and i see why you put it so high. Keep up with the good content!🎉
I’m not super informed on all sets, but I never would have guessed your #1. I feel like I’ve never even looked at those cards. Great list 👍
Thank you for such a well thought out list!! The detail you put into this list is greatly appreciated. Look forward to your future videos! Currently my favorite sets are 151 and crown zenith. I really love the special illustrations putting Pokémon into an environment now. Make the cards come alive.
Being a long term collector. I really appreciate the new art work in all these new set. But rebuilding my collection for my kids. Watching the next generation fall in love. I still love the original set and the og jungle set.
Crown Zenith is my personal favorite set of all time in the modern era solely because theres so much variety in it. I was on my way back from a trip to san antonio and i went to a store to get some stuff and picked up a tin to crack open, mind you I haven't bought cards in 3 years and the set looked promising. ripped it all and pulled the gold palkia, that one card got me obsessed with the set and collecting overall. At the moment, im chasing the paldean fates charizard with 2 gardevoirs in my pocket, and im not planning on stopping! That one decision to buy the tin opened so many doors for me and really made these past years better and enjoyable with such a hobby!
Great Video! My favorite would have to be Crown Zenith from this era or any of the diamond and pearl sets from back in the day!
Amazing video, i like how tell hole history behind the set, my favorite set is team up because of the amazing tag team cards
It was a pleasant surprise to see call of legends so high on this list! I thought I loved the set purely through nostalgia from pulling that shiny deoxys as a kid.
It was a great order overall, and it was nice to see a non-biased list
I'm new to this Hobby and yet get excited when you post new videos haha
As you said, nostalgia hits hard. The reason why 151 has one of the highest demand amongst mondern sets is because of nostalgia; kids who grew up in the 90s/2000s are now adults with disposable income and are willing to spend big just to chase this set. For all we know, gen 9 focused sets may be the new "151" in 20 years... 😅
My favourite set is Crown Zenith. I am a new collector and I’m enjoying collecting A LOT. Crown zenith’s pull rates are really good and as a new collector, it’s a lot of fun getting hit after hit. I only have about 15 cards in my collection of hits so far but I’ve learnt a lot about Pokémon TGC so far!
You keep outperforming yourself, I absolutely love your videos!
Bravo on the video! Super nice content. 👏
I came back to this collecting thing with 151 and have since been weirded out on how it seems every major UA-camr doesn’t give this set, or S&V in general, the respect it deserves. I even feel sets like Obsidian Flames are super underrated! It has some truly great looking cards! Kind of seems like most of the big UA-camrs are still stuck on Sword&Shield and I can see how following up an era like that would be a daunting task! Maybe it’s just a matter of me being new to “modern collecting” or maybe it’s just a matter of time.
Again, great video! Always a pleasure.
Surprised that you didn’t include any of the last 3 wotc sets!
Really lots of insights here on defining what to look for in a set!
Thank you this video helped me figure out where to start collecting as I have been wanting to get into it with my sister for a long time but there's just so much out there
Agree with you 100%! Sometimes part of me thinks 151 and Evolving Skies both got too many chase cards and it's really not fair for the rest of the sets. Also, like you, I LOVE Crown Zenith and it's probably my favorite set.
I was really into pokemon card colleting when i was younger then grew into mtg but here i am back the first set im buying is the 151 set because it truely looks stunning in my eyes
Really hate that I missed out on 151 when it was still widely available. Just recently got into collecting so I’ve started with Stellar Crown and Surging Sparks and I think the artwork for these sets are great.
Crown Zenith was the most fun when it came out (and maybe still is) because several sets before had left me wanting more.. CZ re-energized me to keep opening packs and not just leave them sealed.
151 brought me back after nearly 25 yrs. Love it man! Master set completed in all its glory 🔥
151 has gotten me back into card collecting for the first time since I was a child. There's something so cathartic about indulging in the things I could barely afford so many years ago and looking back at the cards that I (mostly) kept in excellent condition. Even managed to dig up a very clean 1st edition holo Dragonite from the Fossil set which I'm so excited to get graded!
Nostalgia or not nothing beats the OG boosters from the pack art to how simple the cards used to look. i remember the starters deck with machamp and ninetales used to stare at them everytime i seen thinking how beautiful those hoil cards were. But we were poor and my parents couldnt afford until one day on chirstmas i got a ninetales starter deck. I still have that ninetales today and both the card and pokemon are near and dear to my heart now. Was alil sad to see ninetales not get that much love in the new twilight masquerade set. 😢