Of course, there was massive hype during the Sword & Shield era around Alternate Arts, but the beginning of the Scarlet & Violet era saw a marked cool-down in the hobby
Yusuke Kozaki : Known for dynamic, high-energy illustrations Sowsow : Created many beloved Special Illustration Rares in the Scarlet & Violet era, including the famous Umbreon ex SIR from Prismatic Evolutions HYOGONOSUKE : Known for vibrant, detailed backgrounds in alternate art/SIR cards Sanosuke Sakuma : Created the iconic Moonbreon (Umbreon VMAX Alt Art) from Evolving Skies 5ban Graphics : A studio responsible for many of the 3D-rendered Pokemon images on standard cards If you see a popular illustrator's name on a card, it can be a subtle indicator of collectibility beyond just the rarity tier
This initial print run was printed, distributed, and sold out before Pokmania fully took root in the United States, making them extremely rare today, particularly in Near Mint condition
A sign with an angry Charizard and the text Trainers only! is a clear message on the childrens room door
OP-16 is themed around the Summit War / Marineford era, including Impel Down, the Navy, Whitebeard Pirates, Blackbeard Pirates, and the major characters tied to that conflict
I recommend you to think this way for your future events in Limited, I truly believe this is how you can be successful in competitive events
