The 10 Most Expensive Cards in Sword & Shield: Energy (2020)

The Darkness Energy holofoil is the reigning monarch of this set, commanding a price of $3.76. Why the hefty price tag? It’s all about supply and demand—players love the dark aesthetic, and the allure of a shiny energy card adds a chase factor that keeps collectors hungry. Artistically, this card offers a stark yet captivating design that evokes the essence of darkness in the Pokémon universe. The moody color palette is striking, elevating this energy card from mere necessity to eye candy. In terms of competitive play, while energy cards don’t see the forefront of battle, they’re essential for powering up decks like Eternatus VMAX and other Darkness-type heavy-hitters. Historical data shows this card climbed steadily since release, positioning itself as a long-term hold, especially for those seeking to complete their collection. Pull rates? Hard to say, but let’s just say finding this gem feels especially rewarding in a pack—a bit like finding that last slice of pizza at a party. My hot take? This card is definitely worth snagging, especially if you’re aiming for a well-rounded collection!

Coming in at a respectable $2.70, the Water Energy holofoil is like the wise old wizard of the energy cards—it’s a staple in many decks. Why does it demand such attention? The fluid design captures the essence of its element, with a shimmer that mimics the ripples of a calm lake. The artist’s choice to employ a soft but vibrant blue adds to its visual appeal, making it not just an energy card but a work of art. Competitive relevance? Absolutely! Water Energy powers up top-tier decks featuring Pokémon like Inteleon VMAX and other Water-type powerhouses. The price has seen a gentle upward trajectory since its release, thanks to both nostalgia and utility. Pull rates are reasonable, making it less of a unicorn and more of a dependable friend. Personally, I’d say this card is essential for anyone looking to build a solid collection without breaking the bank—it's the Pokémon TCG equivalent of a reliable Swiss Army knife.

Next up is the Metal Energy holofoil, priced at $2.04. Now, you might be asking, 'Why metal?' It’s because this card is essential in decks featuring Pokémon like Zacian V and those pesky Steel-types that keep popping up in competitive play. The artwork is slick, showcasing a polished silver aesthetic that’s as shiny as my dreams of pulling that Charizard card I never got. Not only does this card look good, but it also serves a vital role in powering your Metal-type Pokémon. The market for this card has been stable, representing a reliable option for both players and collectors alike. In terms of pull rates, this one’s more common, so if you’re drafting or cracking packs, chances are you’ll snag this beauty before long. My take? A solid investment for any competitive player looking to squeeze every advantage out of their deck while adding a touch of class to their collection.

The Grass Energy holofoil comes in at $1.93, and while it may not be at the top of the charts, it holds its own in the eyes of many collectors and players. What makes it visually striking? The vibrant green hues encapsulate the very essence of nature, providing a refreshing contrast to the more dark-toned energies. In competitive terms, it powers up grass-themed decks, particularly those using Pokémon like Rillaboom which can turn the tides of battle with their speed and agility. The price has remained relatively stable, and collectors appreciate its aesthetic value. Pull rates are decent, so don’t be surprised to find one or two nestled within your booster packs. My hot take? It may not be a showstopper, but it’s a great addition to any collection, especially if you vibe with nature-themed decks. Plus, how often can you say you own a piece of ‘nature’ in the Pokémon world?

Next on the list is the Lightning Energy holofoil, priced at $1.64. This card zaps its way into the hearts of collectors with its electric vibe. The artwork is electrifying—pun intended—featuring bold yellow and blue hues that scream 'power up!' It stands tall among energy cards, powering decks featuring Pokémon like Pikachu and Boltund that thrive on speed and aggression. As for its market performance, the Lightning Energy has been on a steady climb, reflecting its popularity among players eager to add a little shock to their strategy. Pull rates? Fairly accessible, making it a common find in booster packs. My take? This one’s worth the investment—especially if you’re building an electric-themed deck or just want a vibrant piece in your collection that truly lights up the room.

At $1.59, the Fighting Energy holofoil is no slouch, anchoring itself firmly in the list of valuable energies. This card exudes toughness, visually represented by its rugged rock-like design. It’s a beautiful blend of earth tones that gives off a 'ready to rumble' vibe, perfect for the brawlers of the Pokémon universe. In competitive play, Fighting Energy fuels Pokémon like Lucario and Galarian Sirfetch’d, which are known for their hard-hitting abilities. The card has seen a gradual increase in demand, especially with the resurgence of Fighting-type Pokémon in recent meta shifts. Pull rates are quite favorable, so it’s not an elusive gem. My hot take? If you’re looking for a solid energy card that packs a punch—quite literally—this one is a must-have!

The Psychic Energy reverse holofoil is priced at $1.57, and while it may not dominate the charts, it captures the imaginations of many collectors. Its ethereal design features soft purples and swirling elements reminiscent of psychic powers in the Pokémon world. It’s essential for fueling Psychic-type Pokémon like Mewtwo and Gardevoir, which are frequently seen in competitive decks. The price has fluctuated slightly, but it remains a favorite among collectors who appreciate its unique artwork and vibe. Pull rates for reverse holofoils tend to be less favorable than standard holos, making it a bit of a treasure hunt when cracking packs. My hot take? This card holds sentimental value and is worth snagging, especially if you have a psychic deck or just want to add a touch of mysticism to your collection.

The Fairy Energy reverse holofoil, priced at $1.09, is a whimsical delight in this set. The soft pastels and ethereal imagery evoke a sense of charm and nostalgia, perfect for fans of the Fairy-type Pokémon. While the competitive scene has shifted, making Fairy-type decks less predominant, collectors still adore this card for its artistry and the love for the now-retired Fairy-type mechanic. Prices for this card have seen a slow but steady decline as its playability fades, but its collectible nature keeps it afloat. Pull rates are decent, so if you’re hunting, keep your eyes peeled. My take? While it may not be a powerhouse in competitive play, it’s a sweet addition for nostalgic collectors who want to pay homage to the Fairy-types that once brought magic to battles.

The Fire Energy reverse holofoil is a bit of a sleeper at $0.40. With vibrant reds and oranges, it captures the fiery spirit of Fire-type Pokémon beautifully. Although its price doesn’t ignite the same passion as some other cards in this list, it serves its purpose well in decks featuring Pokémon like Charizard and Arcanine. The card’s market performance has been stable, as it’s commonly found in packs, making it less of a collector’s treasure and more of a reliable staple. Pull rates are on the higher end, so expect to find a few in your booster packs. My hot take? It’s a solid option for players but doesn’t hold much value for collectors—grab it for gameplay and not for investment!