The Rise of Modern Pokémon Sets: Are These Packs Worth Collecting?
Modern Pokémon releases are evolving faster than ever, and collectors are constantly debating which sets are worth opening, holding, or flipping. With bold alternate arts, shiny reprints, and nostalgia-driven releases, it can be hard to tell hype from real potential. In this article, we're breaking down four of the most talked-about modern sets — Shining Fates, Obsidian Flames, 151, and Paldean Fates — and looking at whether they deserve a spot in your collection.
Shining Fates: Still Sparkling or Losing Shine?
Once the king of modern fun, Shining Fates dropped in early 2021 and took over the scene with its massive Shiny Vault and iconic chase card: Shiny Charizard VMAX. While it rode the wave of Pokémania during lockdown, prices have since cooled — making it one of the most affordable modern special sets today. It's great for new collectors or anyone chasing a shiny thrill.
Best for: Casual openers, shiny hunters, and value bulk buyers.
Sealed Potential: Moderate. It has slowed, but long-term collectors still grab it as part of the "Fates" trilogy.
Obsidian Flames: Underrated or Overprinted?
Released in August 2023, Obsidian Flames came in hot with Dark Tera Type Charizard EX as its marquee card. While the set didn’t explode like 151, it packs great artwork and is one of the few Scarlet & Violet sets where Charizard takes center stage. That alone gives it staying power.
Best for: Charizard chasers and players looking for affordable pulls.
Sealed Potential: Medium. Solid, but likely not the strongest long-term hold unless print runs tighten.
Pokémon 151: Nostalgia Meets Modern Firepower
This is the one that hit everyone right in the nostalgia. Featuring all the original 151 Pokémon, this set combines modern card tech with Kanto vibes. Alternate arts like Mew ex SAR and full art starters have made this one of the most in-demand sets in both English and Japanese.
Best for: Sealed collectors, Gen 1 lovers, and display collectors.
Sealed Potential: High. Especially for ETBs and premium products. Many are comparing it to Evolutions (2016) for long-term growth.
Paldean Fates: Successor to Shining Fates?
The newest addition to the "Fates" line-up dropped in early 2024, bringing with it a huge list of shiny vault cards, including starters and key Scarlet & Violet hits. It follows the formula of Hidden Fates and Shining Fates, but with a Paldean twist.
Best for: Opening fun, grading shiny SARs, building a binder.
Sealed Potential: Growing. As the newest of the Fates series, it's still widely available — but the hype is building.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're cracking packs for hits or building a sealed collection, these modern sets all offer something unique. 151 leads the pack for nostalgia and display, Shining Fates keeps it fun and shiny, Paldean Fates continues the collector chase, and Obsidian Flames brings fire for Zard fans. Choose your pack wisely — or better yet, catch 'em all while they're still available!
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