Cosmic Eclipse: Why This Pokémon Set Is So Special

By Jessie Schreuders
3 min read

As a collector, I have seen many sets pass by over the years. However, there is one set that I always look back on with great pleasure: Cosmic Eclipse . A series that is not only large in terms of the number of cards, but especially makes a great impression with beautiful artworks and unique duos.

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

What makes Cosmic Eclipse so unique?

Cosmic Eclipse is the twelfth and final expansion in the Sun & Moon series . The set was released on November 1, 2019 and with 271 cards is one of the largest English-language Pokémon sets ever released.

What makes this set special is the focus on Tag Team GX cards . These are cards where two or even three legendary Pokémon work together on one card. Think of powerful combinations like Arceus & Dialga & Palkia GX or Blastoise & Piplup GX . This not only offers beautiful artwork, but also unique strategies for playing the card game.

However, what really makes Cosmic Eclipse special for me is the introduction of the Character Rares . For the first time in English we saw cards that featured trainers and their Pokémon, with beautiful alternate artwork. These cards in particular provide the recognizable charm that Cosmic Eclipse is known for.

What chase cards are in Cosmic Eclipse?

As you know, in every set there are cards that stand out from the rest in terms of popularity. In Cosmic Eclipse there are also a number of cards that make every collector happy.

The most important chase cards in 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)

Personally, the Pikachu Character Rare remains one of the most beautiful cards from the entire series for me. The nostalgic feeling of Ash and Pikachu together, combined with the cheerful style of the artwork, makes this card a must-have for many collectors.

A set with a story

What makes Cosmic Eclipse extra special is that it wasn't just an expansion. It was really the closing chapter of the Sun & Moon period. That's why the release felt like something special at the time. A farewell of sorts, but with a bang.

I remember well how I bought a few sleeved boosters back then. Not with the idea of ​​pulling something special, but just because I was curious about the new cards. When I pulled that Pikachu Character Rare out of one of those packs, I knew right away that this set was different from the rest. That feeling of surprise and joy stays with you.

However, what really struck me in the months that followed was how quickly the popularity of the Character Rares grew. What initially seemed like a nice extra quickly became the highlight of the set for many collectors.

Release date and facts at a glance

  • Release Date: November 1, 2019
  • Number of cards: 271 (including secret rares)
  • Special Features: Final Sun & Moon Set, Introduction of Character Rares, Focus on Tag Team GX

My advice as a collector

If you're planning on adding something from Cosmic Eclipse to your collection, here are a few things to keep in mind.

For the real investors , sealed booster packs or even a sealed booster box are the best choice. Especially first prints do well in the long run. However, the prices for sealed products have increased considerably in the meantime, so you have to take that into account.

If you want to go for the artwork, the Character Rares are an excellent option. These cards remain readily available and often have a great price-quality ratio. Especially the Pikachu, but also cards like Gallade or Mimikyu with their trainers are worth adding to your map.

My tip: buy what you like. Collecting remains the most fun when you choose the cards that appeal to you, not just for the value.