The Evolution of Pokémon Cards From 1999 to 2024

Pokemon cards have evolved over time.

Some collectors began their journey in 2020 after the hobby gained momentum with high-profile auctions. Others have been collecting since the early days, enjoying memories of opening Base Set packs and finding rare cards like the holographic Charizard and Blastoise. 

Let's explore the evolution of Pokemon cards from 1999 to 2024.

The 1999 Pokemon Base Set

It all began with the Pokemon Base Set in 1999, the first official Pokémon card release in the United States.

At the time, few could have predicted how valuable these cards would become. Over the years, the rarity and nostalgia associated with the base set have only increased, reaching a fever pitch in 2020 when YouTuber Logan Paul revived interest with a high-profile livestream purchase of a $150,000 Charizard card. The holographic Charizard card (PSA 10) was quick to become the most expensive Pokemon card of all time.

This event brought Pokémon card collecting back into mainstream attention, capturing a new market of children who were not as exposed to the world of Pokemon.

The Original Four Pokemon Expansions

As card collecting grew, new Pokemon card expansions were released within a year.

The four most nostalgic sets released within a year after the Pokemon Base Set include:

• Pokemon Jungle Set (1999): The first expansion after the Base Set, featuring fan-favorite Pokémon like Eevee and Snorlax.

• Fossil (1999): Added fossil-themed Pokémon like Kabutops and Aerodactyl, further expanding the available collection.

• Base Set 2 (2000): A reprint that combined cards from the original Base Set and Jungle, making iconic cards accessible to a new generation of fans.

• Team Rocket (2000): Introduced 'Dark' Pokémon, aligning with the Team Rocket theme and adding a unique twist to the collection.

Pokémon Card Series Through the Years

The Pokémon TCG didn’t stop evolving after the early sets.

Each new series introduced unique designs, artwork, and rare cards, keeping the excitement alive.

Here’s a look at some of the major series that have defined Pokémon cards from 2003 - 2024:

• EX Series (2003–2007): This series introduced Pokémon-ex cards, adding powerful, high-HP Pokémon that became highly desirable.
• Diamond & Pearl Series (2007–2009): Introduced Pokémon LV.X cards and the first Generation IV Pokémon, marking a new era in collecting.
• XY Series (2014–2016): Featured Mega Evolution mechanics, reflecting the gameplay changes introduced in the Pokémon X and Y video games.
• Sun & Moon Series (2017–2019): Brought Pokémon-GX cards and Alolan forms, celebrating the release of Pokémon Sun and Moon.
• Sword & Shield Series (2020–2022): Introduced V and VMAX cards, showcasing Dynamax and Gigantamax mechanics from the Sword and Shield games.

• Scarlet & Violet Series (2023–2024): The most recent series features Pokémon ex and Terastal Pokémon, bringing new excitement to collectors.