Echoes of Thunder broke all records in the history of the Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG). As the eighth main expansion in the Sun & Moon series and the largest expansion ever released, this set demonstrated how diverse modern mechanics and diverse strategies could be combined in one set. With 13 new Pokémon-GX and seven additional Prism Star cards, Echoes of Thunder offered players new experiences in terms of gameplay and power levels. In the following article, we take a closer look at the set and the rarest Pokémon from Echoes of Thunder.
Author: Celine Miles
Last modified: July 27, 2024
Reading time: 9 minutes
Scope and innovations
Release date: November 2, 2018
Languages: English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Japanese, Korean
Number of cards: Over 214 cards
Focus: Johto and Alola regions, legendary Pokémon, support cards
Available products: Booster packs, theme decks, special boxes, promo cards
Fusion of Japanese sets
"Echo of Thunder" combined the three most recent Japanese expansions— SM7a Thunderclap Spark , SM7b Fairy Rise , and SM8 Super Burst Impact —and brought Western Trainers up to speed on the latest Pokémon from the Johto and Alola regions. This massive set included many powerful new additions, such as the legendary Lugia-GX , the mythical Zeraora-GX , and the new Ultra Beast Blaziken-GX .
Expanding the game variety
With Prism Star cards gradually becoming established, like Pokémon-GX, Trainers reached new levels of deckbuilding. Cards like Blaziken-GX reinforced aggressive strategies with [Detonation GX], which discarded a Prize card. In contrast, the brand-new Suicune-GX advocated much more defensive strategies with powerful attacks that could switch Pokémon and shuffle them back into the deck. The new Grass-type Smelt-GX operated similarly, offering powerful abilities like Poison and Paralysis to counter aggression.
Support for different types
Support for the Electric-type also increased in "Echo of Thunder" with the help of Zeraora-GX , which allowed discarded Energy cards to be attached to Pokémon. Darkness wasn't neglected either, and Tyranitar-GX also impressed with its high HP and a Standard attack that damaged any of the opponent's Pokémon. Last but not least was Lugia-GX , which, as a colorless type, had the potential to play an important role in many Standard decks.
Prism Star Cards and their Influences
The new Pokémon-GX cards focused on specific decks, while the Prism Star cards continued to focus on deckbuilding, offering Trainers seven unique new cards to experiment with. The various new additions to the Prism Star cards supported various archetypes, such as Ditto ♢ and Celebi ♢ , which catered to Evolutions. Lusamine ♢ also appeared, providing support for Ultra Beasts. Finally, the set included three Prism Star Stadium cards, with Thunder Mountain ♢ specifically for Electric-types and Heat Factory ♢ specifically for Fire-types.
The Sun & Moon Cycle extends its legacy
With the most cards in a set since Aquapolis 15 years ago (186 cards), Echo of Thunder established itself as the new standard for future major expansions, which will continue to be represented in the digital Generation VII. "Echo of Thunder" was released on November 2, 2018, two months after its predecessor in Japan. Boosters had an MSRP of €2.99 and were also available in boxes, preconstructed decks, and Elite Trainer Boxes.
The rarest Pokémon from Echo of Thunder
In this section, we present the top 10 rarest Pokémon from Echoes of Thunder. These cards were coveted not only for their playability but also for their high collectibility. Prices are based on recent sales in PSA 10. Prices may vary, so we recommend doing your own research.
The Top 10 Rarest Pokémon from Echo of Thunder
"Echo of Thunder significantly impacted the Pokémon Trading Card Game with its impressive new cards and mechanics. It offered a host of new possibilities for both players and collectors."
- as of July 2024.
10. Full Art/Kahili (Card 210) – $104.87
Kahili in Full Art is a Trainer card that players and collectors alike appreciate. Her playability and aesthetic design make her a coveted card.
9. Dialga Reverse Foil (Card 127) – $150.00
The reverse foil version of Dialga is a highlight among collectors due to its shiny design and rarity.
8. Umbreon (Card 120) – $150.00
Umbreon is known for its elegant design and popularity among Pokémon TCG fans. This card is a must-have for any collection.
7. Full Art/Mina (Card 211) – $154.72
Mina, as a full-art Trainer card, not only offers gameplay advantages but also boasts a visually appealing design. Her versatility makes her a sought-after card.
6. Full Art/Whitney (Card 214) – $159.50
Whitney in Full Art is a tribute to a familiar face from the Pokémon world. Her nostalgic design and gameplay relevance make her a treasure for collectors and players alike.
5. Full Art/Tyranitar GX Secret (Card 223) – $174.27
Tyranitar GX Secret Full Art is known for its robust strength and impressive attacks. This card is a must-have for any power-oriented deck.
4. Full Art/Suicune GX Secret (Card 220) – $197.50
Suicune GX Secret in Full Art combines defensive capabilities with an elegant design. It's a valuable addition to any trading card game deck.
3. Full Art/Lugia GX (Card 207) – $205.00
The regular full-art version of Lugia GX is highly sought after due to its playability and iconic design. This card is a highlight of any collection.
2. Full Art/Mimikyu GX Secret (Card 226) – $490.00
Mimikyu GX Secret Full Art is known for its unique design and strategic possibilities in the game. This card is especially sought after among collectors.
1. Full Art/Lugia GX Secret (Card 227) – $500.00
Lugia GX Secret in Full Art is the most valuable card in Echo of Thunder. With its impressive artwork and playability, it attracts collectors and players alike.
Conclusion on the set and the rarest Pokémon from Echo of Thunder
With this comprehensive look at Echoes of Thunder and the rarest Pokémon from Echoes of Thunder, we hope you've gained a good overview of the remarkable cards in this set. The set not only offered impressive cards and mechanics, but also set new standards for future expansions of the Pokémon TCG. The rarest Pokémon from Echoes of Thunder remain a highlight for every collector and player. Enjoy more Top 10 posts on CrispyCards.
