The return of Pokémon 151 booster bundles to Amazon is a bittersweet moment for collectors. While it's exciting to see this popular set back in stock, the price tag raises concerns. Amazon is currently listing the bundle at over $60, a significant markup from its MSRP of $26.94. It's hard to call this a "deal," but given the set's rapid sell-out rate, it's difficult to dismiss entirely.
Pokémon TCG: 151 Booster Bundle Is Back In Stock For A Premium
Pokémon TCG: 151 Booster Bundle
0Full Disclosure: MSRP is $26.94 $82.50 save 16% $68.92 at Amazon
What keeps drawing me back to the 151 set is its ability to go beyond mere nostalgia and deliver quality. The card art in this set is a cut above the typical shiny-on-a-blank-background design. For instance, the Illustration Rare Bulbasaur is depicted hiding amidst a jungle of giant leaves, reminiscent of a scene from a Ghibli film. It's beautifully executed. Similarly, Alakazam ex appears to be engaged in a psychic PhD in a cluttered study, adding an element of charm and personality.
Charmeleon - 169/165
0$30.99 at TCG Player
Bulbasaur - 166/165
0$37.99 at TCG Player
Alakazam ex - 201/165
0$53.99 at TCG Player
Squirtle - 170/165
0$40.99 at TCG Player
Charizard ex - 183/165
0$35.40 at TCG Player
The strength of this set lies in its seamless integration of art and gameplay. Cards like Blastoise ex not only boast impressive abilities but also feature artwork that could hang in a gallery. Even Charmander has seen an upgrade, now with 70 HP, which is enough to withstand minor damage that would have previously knocked it out. This subtle yet significant enhancement encapsulates the thoughtful design of the set.
Charmander - 168/165
0$45.05 at TCG Player
Zapdos ex - 202/165
0$60.68 at TCG Player
Blastoise ex - 200/165
0$60.00 at TCG Player
Venusaur ex - 198/165
0$77.73 at TCG Player
Charizard ex - 199/165
0$234.99 at TCG Player
Not every card is a standout; Zapdos ex, for example, is functional but lacks the visual or strategic impact to be a centerpiece. However, the overall quality remains high. Venusaur ex strikes a balance between function and flair, while Squirtle's artwork successfully places a cartoon turtle in a believable ecosystem, showcasing the meticulous attention to detail in these designs.
While I'm not thrilled about paying above MSRP, it's undeniable that the 151 set is packed with value. If you're looking for packs that are enjoyable to open and offer a good chance at high-value pulls, this set remains a strong contender. Just be prepared to pay whatever premium Amazon decides to charge on any given day.
