3 min read

As collectors we have watched a lot of sets come and go over the years. Still, there is one we always look back on with real pleasure: Cosmic Eclipse. A set that is not just big in card count, but that leaves a mark above all through its beautiful artwork and its unique duos.

In this blog we tell you why Cosmic Eclipse is so loved, which chase cards you really need to know, and what sets it apart from other series.

What makes Cosmic Eclipse so unique?

Cosmic Eclipse is the twelfth and final expansion of the Sun & Moon series. It came out on 1 November 2019 and, with 271 cards, it is one of the largest English-language Pokémon sets ever released.

What makes this set special is the focus on Tag Team GX cards. Two or even three legendary Pokémon team up on a single card. Think of powerful combinations like Arceus & Dialga & Palkia GX or Blastoise & Piplup GX. That gives the set not only gorgeous artwork, but unique strategies for playing the game.

What really makes Cosmic Eclipse special for us, though, is the introduction of the Character Rares. For the first time in English we got cards with trainers alongside their Pokémon, in beautiful alternate artwork. Those cards above all give Cosmic Eclipse the charm it is known for.

Which chase cards are in Cosmic Eclipse?

As you know, every set has cards that stand out above the rest in popularity. Cosmic Eclipse has a good few that make any collector happy.

The main chase cards from this set:

  • Charizard & Braixen GX (Rainbow Rare)
  • Arceus & Dialga & Palkia GX (Rainbow Rare)
  • Blastoise & Piplup GX (Rainbow Rare)
  • Pikachu Character Rare – the famous Ash with Pikachu
  • Reshiram & Zekrom GX (Full Art)
  • Red's Challenge (Full Art Trainer)

For us the Pikachu Character Rare is still one of the most beautiful cards in the whole series. The nostalgia of Ash and Pikachu together, combined with the cheerful style of the artwork, makes it a must-have for a lot of collectors.

A set with a story

What makes Cosmic Eclipse extra special is that it was not just another expansion. It was genuinely the closing chapter of the Sun & Moon era. That made the release feel like an occasion at the time. A farewell of sorts, but going out with a bang.

We remember buying a few sleeved boosters back then. Not expecting to pull anything special, just curious about the new cards. Pulling that Pikachu Character Rare out of one of those packs, we knew straight away this set was different from the rest. That feeling of surprise stays with you.

What struck us most in the months that followed, though, was how fast the Character Rares took off. What first looked like a nice extra quickly became the highlight of the set for a lot of collectors.

Release date and facts at a glance

  • Release date: 1 November 2019
  • Number of cards: 271 (including Secret Rares)
  • Notable: the final Sun & Moon set, the introduction of Character Rares, a focus on Tag Team GX

Our advice as collectors

Planning to add something from Cosmic Eclipse to your collection? Then there are a few things worth watching.

For genuine investors, sealed booster packs or even a sealed booster box are the best choice. First prints in particular do well over the long term. Prices for sealed product have climbed considerably by now, though, so factor that in.

Mostly in it for the artwork? Then the Character Rares are an excellent option. They stay reasonably available and usually offer good value for money. The Pikachu above all, but cards like Gallade or Mimikyu with their trainers are well worth adding to your binder too.

Our tip: buy what you find beautiful. Collecting stays most fun when you go for the cards that speak to you, not only for the value.