The Pokémon 151 booster bundles have made a return to Amazon, which might be exciting news for collectors. However, the excitement is tempered by the fact that these bundles are being sold at more than double the manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP). While the actual retail price is $26.94, Amazon is listing the bundle for over $60. This significant markup raises eyebrows, though the rapid sell-out rate of this set makes it hard to dismiss entirely.
Pokémon TCG: 151 Booster Bundle Is Back In Stock For A Premium
Pokémon TCG: 151 Booster Bundle
0Full Disclosure: MSRP is $26.94 $82.50 save 16% $68.92 at Amazon
What draws me back to the 151 set is its ability to transcend mere nostalgia. The card art in this set is exceptional, moving beyond the typical shiny-on-blank-background design. For instance, the Illustration Rare Bulbasaur is depicted hiding amidst a jungle of giant leaves, evoking the feel of a Ghibli movie. Similarly, Alakazam ex appears to be immersed in a cluttered study, working on a psychic PhD, which adds a unique charm to the card.
Charmeleon - 169/165
0$30.99 at TCG Player
Bulbasaur - 166/165
0$37.99 at TCG Player
Alakazam ex - 201/165
0$53.99 at TCG Player
Squirtle - 170/165
0$40.99 at TCG Player
Charizard ex - 183/165
0$35.40 at TCG Player
One of the set's strongest attributes is how it seamlessly blends art with gameplay without feeling forced. Cards like Blastoise ex not only have strong abilities but also boast artwork worthy of a gallery. Even Charmander has seen an upgrade, now with 70 HP, a subtle yet significant improvement that can withstand chip damage better than its predecessors. This attention to detail encapsulates much of what makes this set special.
Charmander - 168/165
0$45.05 at TCG Player
Zapdos ex - 202/165
0$60.68 at TCG Player
Blastoise ex - 200/165
0$60.00 at TCG Player
Venusaur ex - 198/165
0$77.73 at TCG Player
Charizard ex - 199/165
0$234.99 at TCG Player
While not every card hits the mark, the overall quality remains high. Zapdos ex, for example, is functional but doesn't stand out in terms of art or deck-building potential. In contrast, Venusaur ex excels in both form and function, and Squirtle's artwork successfully portrays it within a believable ecosystem, showcasing the care put into these designs.
Paying above MSRP is not ideal, but it's hard to deny the value this set brings. If you're looking for packs that are genuinely fun to open and offer a good chance at high-value pulls, the 151 set remains a strong choice. Just be prepared to pay whatever premium Amazon is currently charging.
