The market for XY-era Mega Evolution Pokémon cards has heated up in anticipation of Pokémon Legends Z-A and the new Mega Evolution TCG set and Phantasmal Flames expansion. Collectors aren’t waiting for fresh stock of modern Mega Evolutions, they’re going back to the originals.
As a result, some cards have spiked dramatically, while others are showing signs of plateauing, creating strong entry points for buyers who want to get ahead of the next wave.
Leading the charge is M Rayquaza EX (Shiny Full Art – Ancient Origins), which has soared from $275.15 in January to a staggering $1,450 today—an increase of over 426%. Meanwhile, M Gengar EX (Secret Rare – Phantom Forces) has multiplied nearly fivefold since January, now trading at $415. These climbers highlight just how quickly momentum can build around Mega Evolutions.
But not every card is running away in price. Some are holding steady after strong climbs earlier this year. M Alakazam EX (Full Art – Fates Collide) sits at just under $100 after rising from $28.85 in January, but recent weeks show leveling off. For buyers, these plateaus represent a rare chance to secure cards before demand intensifies again when Mega Evolution reclaims the spotlight.
Pokémon Card Climbers
The clearest winners of 2025’s Mega Evolution run-up are the Rayquaza and Gengar cards. M Rayquaza EX (Shiny Full Art – Ancient Origins) has surged over 426% this year, now commanding $1,450. Its Theta Max ability that heals on evolution and the scaling power of Emerald Break made it a competitive monster in its day, and the shiny black-and-gold artwork cements it as a collector grail.
M Gengar EX (Secret Rare – Phantom Forces) isn’t far behind, up 357% since January to $415. Its Phantom Gate attack let it copy any move from the opponent’s Active Pokémon, a flexible strategy that earned it lasting fan love. The secret rare gold trim adds collector prestige, making this one of the most desirable Megas not named Rayquaza.
Also climbing fast is M Rayquaza EX (Full Art – Roaring Skies), now at $656.93 compared to $164.04 in January. Its Delta Evolution rule bypassed the usual Mega Evolution turn-ending drawback, giving it unique competitive edge at release. The vibrant green artwork adds to its desirability, and while overshadowed by the Shiny Rayquaza, it’s carving its own path upward.
M Charizard EX (X – Flashfire) has also doubled and then some, climbing from $126.89 to $349.99. Though its Wild Blaze attack forced players to discard five cards after dealing 300 damage, the Mega X design remains one of Charizard’s most iconic forms. Collectors chasing Charizard cards across eras are pushing this one higher.
Finally, Primal Groudon EX (Shiny Full Art – Ancient Origins) has jumped from $126.89 in January to $349.99 today. The Theta Max healing ability and Gaia Volcano’s potential to hit 200 made it a powerhouse in its day, while the shiny crimson-and-gold artwork locks in its collector appeal. Though technically a Primal, it rides the same wave as Mega Evolutions in the current surge.
Pokémon Card Crashers
Not every Mega Evolution is continuing to climb. Some have slowed their upward trajectory, making them attractive buys while prices are stable. Primal Groudon EX (Omega Full Art – Primal Clash) has risen from $90.60 in January to $254.93 but is beginning to level off. Its Omega Barrier ability that blocked Trainer effects made it uniquely powerful, and while it’s cooled, the mechanics and artwork give it plenty of long-term upside.
M Mewtwo EX (Full Art – BREAKthrough) has shown one of the biggest percentage gains, from $37.21 to $145.04. Its Psychic Infinity attack scaled with Energy on both Active Pokémon, giving it offensive versatility. While its growth has slowed compared to Rayquaza and Gengar, this plateau is a clear chance to lock in before it spikes again with the Mega Evolution revival.
M Alakazam EX (Full Art – Fates Collide) has climbed from $28.85 to $99.97 but has now steadied in the $90–100 range. Its Zen Force attack synergized well with spread-damage strategies, though it never became a meta staple. Collectors have kept it relevant, and with prices flatlining, this looks like a buy-and-hold card heading into Pokémon Legends Z-A.
M Charizard EX (Generations) has tripled from $64.66 to $196, but growth has tapered. Its Heat Typhoon coin-flip mechanic made it more of a novelty card, yet the Generations anniversary branding has cemented its long-term collector appeal. With Charizard’s legacy tied tightly to every new era, this plateau may be short-lived.
Finally, M Charizard EX (Full Art – Evolutions) mirrors its Generations counterpart, rising from $64.66 to $196 but settling into that range. The Crimson Dive attack packed 300 damage at the cost of self-harm, which limited competitive use, but Evolutions nostalgia has carried it. With the Mega Evolution resurgence on the horizon, this lull feels like a rare buying opportunity before Charizard prices inevitably rise again.
Christian Wait is a contributing freelancer for IGN covering everything collectable and deals. Christian has over 7 years of experience in the Gaming and Tech industry with bylines at Mashable and Pocket-Tactics. Christian also makes hand-painted collectibles for Saber Miniatures. Christian is also the author of “Pokemon Ultimate Unofficial Gaming Guide by GamesWarrior”. Find Christian on X @ChrisReggieWait.
