The rarest Pokémon from Rise of Rivals: An in-depth look. "This set brings back the nostalgia of the Sinnoh region and lets fans experience the legendary Pokémon of the Gym Leaders and Elite Four in a whole new way." – CrispyCards Team
Last updated: June 19, 2024. – Author: Celine Miles. – Reading time: 10 minutes.
Hello Pokémon fans and collectors! In today's Pokémon blog post, we're devoting ourselves to another fascinating set from the Pokémon Trading Card Game—the Rising Rivals set. Released on May 18, 2009, in the US and later that same year in Germany , this set is the second in the Platinum Cycle and brings us an impressive selection of cards. Our focus is on the rarest Pokémon from Rising Rivals, which both players and collectors are raving about.
Personal memories of the rarest Pokémon from Rise of Rivals
When I first held the cards from "Rising Rivals" in my hands, I was immediately fascinated by the variety and new mechanics . The introduction of Pokémon SP and the special Trainer cards, in particular, made the game even more exciting. It was always a special moment to open a booster pack and hope for one of the rare and valuable cards.
If you want to know what the rarest cards from the Pokémon Platinum set are, check out our blog .
Introduction to the Rise of Rivals set
"Rising Rivals" is based on Pokémon Platinum , but focuses on the Gym Leaders' and Elite Four Pokémon from the Sinnoh region. This expansion features two new types of Pokémon SP : Pokémon GL (Gym Leader's Pokémon) and Pokémon 4 (Elite 4's Pokémon) . These cards represent the Gym Leaders' and Elite Four Pokémon, bringing new strategic possibilities to the game. Some Team Galactic Pokémon are also represented in this set.
Before "Rising Rivals," Gym Leader Pokémon were introduced in the Gym Heroes , Gym Challenge , and Pokémon Card ★ VS sets, while Elite Four Pokémon were only found in Pokémon VS and EX Power Keepers . "Rising Rivals" brings a fresh and exciting addition to the existing sets.
Special features and mechanics
Pokémon SP: One of the biggest innovations in Rising Rivals are the Pokémon SP, which are assigned to specific Trainers. These Pokémon are often more powerful and have special abilities that distinguish them from regular Pokémon. They are not only strategically valuable in the game, but also very popular with collectors due to their unique artwork and connection to famous Trainers.
Trainer Cards and Supporters: The set also includes a variety of new Trainer and Supporter cards that can influence gameplay. Cards like "Volkner's Philosophy" and "Flint's Willpower" offer new strategic possibilities and are essential in many decks.
My personal opinion on the set
The Rise of Rivals set offers an impressive variety of cards and mechanics that are interesting for both players and collectors. The rarest Pokémon from this set are coveted not only for their playability, but also for their aesthetic and nostalgic appeal. For me personally, Rise of Rivals has always been a highlight, providing many exciting and unforgettable moments in the trading card game.
The rarest Pokémon from Rise of Rivals in our traditional Top 10
Here's a detailed look at the ten most expensive cards from the Rising Rivals set in PSA 10 and their current values in Euros. These cards are known not only for their playability, but also for their rarity and high collectibility. Let's dive in!
Crispycards
The 10 rarest Pokémon from Rise of Rivals
"The introduction of Pokémon SP in this set has taken the game to a new strategic level. Pokémon GL and Pokémon 4 offer unique abilities that can decisively influence the course of the game." – CrispyCards Team
- as of June 2024.
10. Mismagius GL LV.X-Holo (Rising Rivals 110/111)
- Price in PSA 10: approx. 535.69 USD (~500 €)
- Description: Mismagius GL LV.X, belonging to the trainer Fantina, offers powerful mental attacks and the ability "Magical Return".
- Special feature: This card is particularly appreciated for its aesthetic illustration and playful strength.
9. Flygon LV.X-Holo (Rising Rivals 105/111)
- Price in PSA 10: approx. 825.44 USD (~770 €)
- Description: Flygon LV.X offers powerful attacks and the ability "Wind Erosion", which can remove cards from the opponent's deck every turn.
- Special feature: This card is sought after by both players and collectors because of its strategic advantages and rarity.
8. Leafeon Reverse Foil (Rising Rivals 45/111)
- Price in PSA 10: approx. 858.60 USD (~800 €)
- Description: Leafeon is a popular Pokémon from the Eevee evolutionary family, known for its green and refreshing appearance.
- Special feature: The reverse foil version of this card is particularly sought after by collectors due to its beauty and rarity.
7. Hippowdon LV.X-Holo (Rising Rivals 107/111)
- Price in PSA 10: approx. 892.40 USD (~833 €)
- Description: Hippowdon LV.X has high health and the ability “Sand Reset,” which can affect the field.
- Special feature: The impressive lifespan and strategic possibilities make Hippowdon LV.X a popular choice.
6. Alakazam 4 LV.X-Holo (Rising Rivals 103/111)
- Price in PSA 10: approx. 984.00 USD (~918 €)
- Description: Alakazam 4 LV.X has the ability “Damage Switch,” which allows it to shift damage between the opponent’s Pokémon.
- Special feature: The strategic ability and aesthetic presentation make Alakazam 4 LV.X a valuable card.
5. Luxray GL LV.X-Holo (Rising Rivals 109/111)
- Price in PSA 10: approx. 1,378.43 USD (~1,285 €)
- Description: Luxray GL LV.X, belonging to trainer Volkner, is known for its ability “Flash Impact”, which causes high damage.
- Special feature: This card is particularly popular both because of its playing power and because of its impressive illustration.
4. Gallade 4 LV.X Holo (Rising Rivals 106/111)
- Price in PSA 10: approx. 1,445.00 USD (~1,350 €)
- Description: Gallade 4 LV.X offers powerful fighting attacks and the ability "Blade Storm", which inflicts great damage to the opponent.
- Special feature: The dynamic illustration and the strategic possibilities make Gallade 4 LV.X a sought-after card.
3. Flying Pikachu Holo (Rising Rivals 113/111)
- Price in PSA 10: approx. 1,801.00 USD (~1,680 €)
- Description: Flying Pikachu is a nostalgic and iconic card featuring Pikachu flying. This card is especially popular with long-time fans and collectors.
- Special feature: The cute and unique style of this card makes it a highlight of any collection.
2. Darkrai G-Holo (Rising Rivals 3/111)
- Price in PSA 10: approx. 2,152.00 USD (~2,000 €)
- Description: Darkrai G impresses with its dark and mysterious attacks. This card is a must-have for fans of the legendary Pokémon Darkrai.
- Special feature: The ability “Eerie Aura” continuously weakens the opponent and makes Darkrai G a feared card in the game.
1. Snorlax LV.X Holo (Rising Rivals 111/111)
- Price in PSA 10: approx. USD 2,436.10 (~€2,270)
- Description: Snorlax LV.X is a powerful card with high health and impressive abilities. The card depicts Snorlax in a majestic pose, further increasing its collectibility.
- Special feature: The “Big Appetite” ability allows you to play multiple energy cards at the same time, which is strategically very valuable.
