Before Art Rares, there was the humble Amazing Rare. Legendary Pokemon burst from the card in a bloom of colour and sparkles. Underappreciated then and now, these nine cards were inserted into two Sword and Shield sets: Vivid Voltage, and Shining Fates. We list three of our favourites below.
Celebi (Vivid Voltage: 009/185)
5Ban Graphics have captured Celebi's whimsy in a colour-explosion reflecting its playful pose. The colour spray is frantic and chaotic, underlining Celebi's nature. If there is any card to help you understand why Celebi is a fan favourite, it's this artwork. Find your copy of Celebi (Vivid Voltage: 009/185) here.
Jirachi (Vivid Voltage: 119/185)
The artist, Sanosuke Sakuma, creates a sense of movement and flow in the colour-burst matching the twirl of Jirachi's yellow appendages. Jirachi is often depicted with a pleasant face, but again the determination or anger in Jirachi's face mirrors the vortex behind them. Shop for Jirachi (Vivid Voltage: 119/185) here.
Raikou (Vivid Voltage: 050/185)
The artwork's colourful swirls give Raikou momentum as it pounces on its prey. Less majestic, and more fearsome, the artist, Hideki Ishikawa, captures Raikou's legendary strength and power. Buy your copy of Raikou (Vivid Voltage: 050/185) here.
Will Amazing Rares make a comeback? It's unlikely, but there are many other legendary Pokemon deserving of the 'Amazing Rare' treatment. We know we'd love to see it happen.