Is Ascended Heroes the Next Prismatic Evolutions OR Just Hype?
Which is the Better Long-Term Investment: Prismatic Evolutions or Ascended Heroes?
Introduction to the Discussion
- The video compares two Pokémon card sets, Prismatic Evolutions and Ascended Heroes, focusing on their potential as long-term investments.
- The host invites viewers interested in Pokémon investing content to subscribe for daily shorts and weekly long-form videos.
Artwork Comparison
- Prismatic Evolutions features 32 special illustration rares (SIRs), including nine evolutions, but lacks traditional illustration rares.
- In contrast, Ascended Heroes has 22 SIRs and a robust chase list with popular characters like Gengar and Pikachu, plus 33 illustration rares that appeal more broadly.
Character Depth and Set Value
- Prismatic Evolutions boasts the highest total set value in the Scarlet and Violet era but is heavily centered around Eevee evolutions, limiting its appeal.
- Ascended Heroes lacks a clear theme compared to other successful sets but offers a wide range of first-generation nostalgic Pokémon, catering to diverse collector interests.
Pool Rates vs. Set Size
- Prismatic Evolutions contains about 180 cards with specific SIR pull rates at approximately 1 in 440 packs; Ascended Heroes has around 295 cards with predicted pull rates closer to 1 in 2,000.
- The larger set size of Ascended Heroes may contribute to its long-term scarcity despite lower pull rates for specific cards.
Unique Features Driving Hype
- Prismatic Evolutions includes god packs containing nine evolutions per pack, significantly driving demand and excitement among collectors.
- While Ascended Heroes lacks god packs, it compensates with harder pull rates for secret rares which could enhance its investment potential.
Availability and Printing Strategy
- Prismatic Evolutions has had consistent print runs since release, stabilizing prices due to ample supply; it still has at least one year left in production.
- Conversely, Ascended Heroes will have a staggered release over three months starting January 30th. Initial availability will be limited to smaller collections before wider distribution occurs.
Analysis of Ascended Heroes and Market Trends
The Impact of Set Size on Collector Interest
- The large set size of nearly 300 cards may lead collectors to purchase numerous ancillary products, risking loss of interest by the time booster bundles are released three months later.
Unpredictability in Pricing and Demand
- Current hype surrounding Ascended Heroes makes its market behavior unpredictable; this unpredictability appears to be a deliberate strategy.
Comparative Pricing Insights
- Top chase cards from Prismatic are priced variably (e.g., £600, £230), while booster bundles are around £50, indicating significant price differences compared to previous sets like Scarlet and Violet.
Caution with Pre-orders
- It is advised to pre-order Ascended Heroes only from reputable sources or directly from the Pokémon Center due to risks associated with price fluctuations leading to order cancellations or overpayment.
Investment Perspectives on Sets
- While Prismatic Evolutions is established as a solid investment, Ascended Heroes shows potential but remains unproven. Its success will depend on post-release factors such as real pool rates and market reactions.