The 10 Most Expensive Cards in Next Destinies
Welcome to the wild world of "Next Destinies," a Pokémon TCG set that dropped in February 2012 like a surprise EP from your favorite band. This set is part of the Black & White series, a time when the game was evolving but still leaning heavily into the nostalgia of original Pokémon. At its core, Next Destinies is all about powerful EX cards and introducing the mechanics of the Pokémon-EX gameplay, which allows players to use more potent versions of their favorites. This set prioritized dynamic gameplay with a sprinkle of nostalgia, and boy, did it not disappoint! Collectors are still clamoring for these stunning cards that feature some of the most beloved Pokémon of all time, like Zekrom, Reshiram, and Mewtwo.
But let’s talk dollars and sense — or rather, the lack thereof. The market for Next Destinies is as spicy as a Ghost Pepper on a summer’s day. With several cards commanding hefty prices, collectors are getting serious about their investments. The demand is driven by nostalgia, competitive relevance, and a touch of that sweet, sweet rarity. Look, I get it; you want to know who the big hitters are amidst this chaos. Well, I’m opening the curtain on the top 10 cards that make this set a gold mine or a money pit, depending on your luck and your wallet. Buckle up, because the chase is real, and your rent might be in jeopardy if you get too deep into this set's rabbit hole.
Browse the complete Next Destinies set
View all 103 cards, prices, and your collection progress
Zekrom-EX
#97 · Rare Ultra · Holofoil
Market Price

Zekrom-EX (#97) is not just powerful; it's a cornerstone of the Next Destinies set, commanding a jaw-dropping price of $271.01. Why? Supply and demand, my friend. This card features stunning artwork by the legendary Mitsuhiro Arita, capturing Zekrom's electric might in an eye-popping holofoil. Competitive play? You bet! Zekrom-EX has been a staple in Lightning-type decks due to its potent "Bolt Strike" attack, dealing a hefty 120 damage while also inflicting self-damage. Its price has fluctuated, climbing steadily as collectors and players alike recognize its value. Pull rates from booster packs are challenging, making it a sought-after prize for anyone cracking packs. In my humble opinion, Zekrom-EX isn't just a card; it's an investment in nostalgia and power wrapped in a stunning visual package.
Kyurem-EX
#96 · Rare Ultra · Holofoil
Market Price

Kyurem-EX (#96), priced at $259.98, is another heavyweight in the Next Destinies lineup. This dragon is known for its formidable presence in both competitive play and collectors' hearts. Featuring artwork that captures Kyurem's icy elegance, the piece by 5ban Graphics uses a vibrant color palette that makes it pop. From a competitive standpoint, Kyurem-EX fits seamlessly into Freeze Bolt decks, leveraging its "Glaciate" ability to spread damage across the board. The market for Kyurem-EX has been on an upward trend, driven by its usage in meta decks and its status as a fan favorite. Pulling this card? Good luck! It's harder to find than a shiny in the wild. If you land one, consider yourself more than lucky; you're in the elite club. Kyurem-EX is worth every penny, both as a competitive asset and a collector's gem.
Reshiram-EX
#95 · Rare Ultra · Holofoil
Market Price

Reshiram-EX (#95) is right on Kyurem's heels, with a current market price of $244.65. Another classic card that boasts breathtaking artwork by the phenomenal Yoshio Takemori, showcasing Reshiram in a fierce pose that screams 'legendary.' On the competitive stage, Reshiram-EX shines in Fire-type decks, particularly with its "Blue Flare" attack — a whopping 130 damage that also requires some strategy around discarding energy cards. Market trends suggest Reshiram-EX has held steady, retaining its value as both a competitive staple and a collector's item. Pulling this card is no walk in the park, making it even more desirable. If you're looking for a card that balances aesthetic appeal and competitive viability, Reshiram-EX is your best bet. It’s like the best of both worlds, a true banger in the TCG scene.
Mewtwo-EX
#98 · Rare Ultra · Holofoil
Market Price

Mewtwo-EX (#98) rounds out our top four at $238.31, and honestly, what's not to love? Mewtwo has been iconic since day one, and this card embodies that legacy with artwork that captures the psychic powerhouse in an otherworldly fashion. Mewtwo-EX sees strong competitive play, particularly in Psychic-type decks, with its "Psystrike" attack, which can deal up to 120 damage, making it a formidable opponent. The card's price has fluctuated but remains robust as players and collectors alike recognize its enduring appeal. Pulling a Mewtwo-EX feels like finding a golden snitch in a Quidditch match — nearly impossible. So if you manage to snag one, consider it a trophy. This card has staying power, and it's a solid choice for anyone serious about their TCG game, both in play and as an investment.
Zoroark
#102 · Rare Secret · Holofoil
Market Price

Zoroark (#102) is where the collector's heart truly races. Priced at $194.99, this Rare Secret card is a must-have for those who appreciate intricate artwork. Illustrated by the talented 5ban Graphics, Zoroark's design is both vibrant and dynamic, capturing the essence of this Illusion Fox Pokémon. In competitive play, Zoroark excels through its trickster-like abilities, being the backbone of many rogue decks. The market value has seen a steady climb, fueled by collectors who appreciate the rarity and playability of this gem. With a lower pull rate than standard cards, finding Zoroark in packs feels like finding a rare gem in a treasure chest. If you’re a strategic player or a collector, Zoroark is certainly a worthy investment and a card that will make your collection stand out.
Hydreigon
#103 · Rare Secret · Holofoil
Market Price

Hydreigon (#103) emerges at $164.99, and it's a powerhouse worth your attention. Its artwork is a dramatic portrayal of Hydreigon by 5ban Graphics that perfectly embodies this dark dragon's ferocity. In competitive circles, Hydreigon has earned its place in various decks, especially with its ability to hit for high damage while providing great synergy with Dark-type Pokémon. The market for Hydreigon has been stable, maintaining its value as players and collectors appreciate its versatility. Pulling this card can be tricky, adding to its allure as a Rare Secret. If you’re considering adding Hydreigon to your collection, know that it’s a card that can do both — dominate in play and shine on your shelf. It’s got that dual threat appeal that makes it worth its weight.
Chandelure
#101 · Rare Secret · Holofoil
Market Price

Chandelure (#101) may be haunting your wallet at $148.50, but don't be scared! This card is a Rare Secret that stands out with beautifully eerie artwork by 5ban Graphics. Chandelure’s design radiates charm, and let’s be honest, captures that spooky vibe perfectly. On the competitive side, this ghostly Pokémon is a favorite in decks looking to disrupt opponents with its unique abilities. Market values have seen Chandelure maintain a solid footing, thanks largely to its strategic playstyle and collector appeal. Pulling this card is about as common as finding a friendly ghost, making it more desirable. If you appreciate the synergy of strategy and visuals, Chandelure is a card worth ghosting into your collection — just be ready for those bills to give you chills.
Emboar
#100 · Rare Secret · Holofoil
Market Price

Emboar (#100) finds itself priced at $102.25, and it’s the epitome of a collector’s card that can actually see play. Boasting artwork that captures Emboar's fiery essence, this card brings a warm feeling to collectors’ hearts. Competitively, it stands out in Fire-type decks with its "Flame Charge" attack, allowing for energy acceleration that can turn the tide of battle. While the market has seen some ups and downs, Emboar has held steady due to its dual nature as both a powerful card and a collector's piece. Its pull rates are moderately tricky, which adds to its allure. If you’re a Fire-type fan, Emboar is a solid addition to your lineup that won’t just sit pretty in a binder — it can pack a punch, too!
Regigigas-EX
#99 · Rare Ultra · Holofoil
Market Price

Regigigas-EX (#99), at $65.00, may not break the bank, but it’s certainly got its charm. Its artwork, while not as striking as some of its counterparts, showcases Regigigas in a fashion that's sure to please die-hard fans. This card has seen some fluctuations in the market, often landing in the affordable range, making it a great entry point for collectors. From a competitive angle, Regigigas-EX has potential in decks focused on slower strategies. The price reflects its availability, with pull rates being more forgiving than some of the other heavy hitters. If you’re on the fence about whether to add Regigigas-EX to your collection, think of it as a solid value buy — it's not the flashiest, but it has its own steady appeal.
Shaymin-EX
#94 · Rare Ultra · Holofoil
Market Price

Shaymin-EX (#94) wraps up our list at $59.99, yet it’s still a fan favorite. This card’s artwork shines brightly, illustrating Shaymin in a whimsical design that captures the essence of this Grass-type Pokémon beautifully. Competitive play has seen Shaymin-EX play a vital role, particularly in decks that can capitalize on its "Ability" to accelerate energy quickly, making it a valuable card. The market for Shaymin-EX has remained stable, especially for collectors who appreciate its rarity. Pull rates are decent, making it a relatively accessible card to track down. If you’re looking for a card that balances aesthetics and competitive value, Shaymin-EX is an excellent choice. You’re getting a piece of art and functionality, so why not treat yourself?
The market for Next Destinies is as dynamic as ever, with prices reflecting both nostalgia and competitive utility. Cards like Zekrom-EX and Kyurem-EX are strong investments, while Zoroark and Hydreigon provide solid playability and collectability. If you're looking to invest, focus on cards with a proven track record and competitive relevance. On the flip side, consider avoiding cards that have seen wild fluctuations unless you're prepared for the risk. Overall, ripping packs from this set can be a roller coaster, but the thrill of the chase is part of the enchantment. So grab your wallet, cross your fingers, and dive into Next Destinies — just remember to budget like you're trying to land a shiny. Happy collecting!
Prices updated automatically. Last article refresh: April 8, 2026
Market prices sourced from TCGPlayer. Affiliate links may earn us a commission at no cost to you.
Browse all 103 cards in Next Destinies →