3 min read

If you have been around the Pokémon TCG for a while, you know how special the original 151 Pokémon are. They are the foundation of the whole game. That is exactly why the Scarlet & Violet 151 set landed so well. This expansion brings the very first generation back into the game in a modern, creative way – and that is precisely what a lot of collectors were waiting for.

Why this set is so loved

What struck us straight away about this set is how faithful it stays to the Kanto region without ever feeling dated. The cards are beautifully illustrated, with special attention for Alternate Arts and Illustration Rares. Take the Alakazam card, calmly sipping an espresso – that is pure art.

As you know, not every set is laid out clearly. With Scarlet & Violet 151, though, they went with Pokédex order. That turns collecting into a real pleasure, especially when you are sorting the cards into a binder.

The ex mechanic has been cleverly brought back in this set too. Charizard, Mew and Blastoise get a fresh look and competitive value on top. That makes the set appealing to collectors and active players alike.

The Scarlet & Violet 151 products

You have plenty of options when it comes to products in this set. That is good news, because whether you are a casual fan or a serious collector, there is always something for you:

  • Sleeved Booster Packs – single boosters, so you can keep on opening.
  • Booster Bundle – six boosters, no frills, ideal for expanding quickly.
  • Elite Trainer Box (ETB) – our personal favourite: 9 boosters, a beautiful Snorlax promo, sleeves and accessories.
  • Ultra Premium Collection – the top pick for the die-hard collector, with metal cards of Charizard and Mew.
  • Mini Tins – nice little tins with two boosters and an art card. Perfect as a gift, or to keep collecting yourself.
  • Poster and Binder Collections – handy and good-looking. Ideal if you want to keep your set in order.
  • Zapdos ex Box – extra focus on Zapdos, with a promo and a jumbo card included.
  • Booster Packs – single boosters, so you can keep on opening.

That range of products shows The Pokémon Company thought carefully about accessibility and about the fun of collecting.

What can you expect from the contents?

The set came out in Europe on 22 September 2023 and holds 165 cards in total. That includes several Secret Rares and Illustration Rares. The Mew ex Secret Rare and the Charizard ex Alternate Art in particular are extremely popular, and you see that reflected in their value on the secondary market.

Is this set for you?

Yes – if you are after nostalgia, top-tier design and collector value. And also if you are only just starting with Pokémon cards, this is a great place to begin. The familiar Pokémon, the clear order and the fun products make it both approachable and special.

We see Scarlet & Violet 151 as one of the strongest sets of recent years. Not only because of the cards themselves, but because this set taps so well into what the fanbase feels.