If I had to choose one Pokémon V card as the very best, I would pick Charizard VMAX. This iconic Fire Pokémon has long been a favorite among fans. Its VMAX form combines artwork, value, rarity, strength, history, and nostalgia into one incredible card.
Charizard tops many lists of the most valuable and sought-after Pokémon. A 1st edition Base Set Charizard is the most expensive Pokémon card ever sold at over $300,000! While not as pricey, Charizard VMAX carries on this legacy.
Let‘s explore why Charizard VMAX stands above other Pokémon V cards that have released over the past three years.
Charizard Remains the Most Popular Pokémon
Charizard was a standout Pokémon from the very first Pokémon Red/Blue games. Its dragon-like design and fiery moves made it an instant favorite. Over 25 years later, Charizard still ranks as the most popular Pokémon by a wide margin according to official polls.
This popularity translates into demand and value for Charizard cards. Collectors consider it the chase card of pretty much every set. Any alternate art or special textured version sends the value soaring. While other Pokémon rotate in and out of favor, Charizard always draws interest.
Stunning Artwork Adds Value
The artwork on Charizard cards also enhances their appeal. The normal Charizard VMAX already looks great with its textured foil and shining colors. But the alternative "Rainbow Rare" artwork takes it to another level, with painterly textures and golden highlights.
These types of special version VMAX cards are extremely rare at 1 in 100+ packs. So the supply is very limited. Between the low pull rates and popularity, prices have climbed over $500 for a perfect graded copy.
Nostalgia Plays a Role
There is also the nostalgia factor. Charizard was many current collectors‘ first Pokémon. Getting that highly desired Charizard brought excitement and bragging rights on the playground. So collectors today seek out Charizard cards to relive those memories.
Even for newer collectors, Charizard represents what Pokémon is all about. It connects to the early roots of the franchise. So Charizard VMAX also appeals as a representation of Pokémon history.
Charizard Has Remained Competitively Viable
Unlike some collectible cards, Charizard VMAX is highly playable as well. Here are its key statistics:
- HP – 290
- Max Flare – 220 damage
- G-Max Wildfire – Spread damage across your opponent‘s field
These stats have kept Charizard VMAX in top competitive decks even years after its initial release. According to Pokemon database PokeGoldfish, Charizard remains the 6th most played Pokémon in tournament play over the past year.
Its combination of HP bulk, big damage, and "spread" move makes it a versatile threat. Players love using such an iconic powerhouse Pokémon.
Statistics Show Charizard‘s Dominance
Looking at market data and statistics cements why Charizard VMAX is considered the best Pokémon V card:
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Most Valuable: A PSA 10 Gem Mint Charizard VMAX sells for $500+ on average, the highest price of any readily available VMAX
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Top Popularity: Charizard VMAX is the #1 most collected card among investors per GoatCards investment data
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High Demand: Charizard VMAX has seen a 430% increase in eBay demand over the past 3 years, more than any other VMAX
The numbers support what collectors already know: nothing beats Charizard. Its sustained value and popularity makes it a secure investment. Even sealed Elite Trainer Boxes containing Charizard VMAX sell for thousands.
Simply put, the iconic appeal and competitive strength of Charizard VMAX is unmatched in the Pokémon V series so far. That cements its status as the single best Pokémon V card in my opinion.
Other Top Contenders for Best Pokémon V
Of course, ranking collectibles is subjective and other fans may pick different cards as the "best" based on their own criteria. Here are two other major contenders:
Pikachu VMAX – Most Iconic Pokémon
As the beloved face of Pokémon, Pikachu gives Charizard a run for its money. Cards like the Poncho Pikachu VMAX and the special 25th anniversary VMAX have sold for $500+ each. Pikachu‘s universal popularity ensures demand from casual and hardcore collectors alike.
Umbreon VMAX – Top Modern Card
In terms of newer releases, Umbreon VMAX makes a case based on artwork and current playability. The alternate art Umbreon VMAX is considered one of the best looking modern cards. Competitively, Umbreon remains a meta staple. Its bulk and disruption help it maintain value and tournament usage.
While I believe Charizard edges out these and other cards, good cases can be made for Pikachu, Umbreon, and a few other Pokémon VMAX‘s as the "best" depending on the criteria used. Collecting is personal, after all!
Conclusion
For its enduring popularity, iconic status, stunning artwork, and competitive strength, I choose Charizard VMAX as the single best Pokémon V card. Of course, with many amazing cards to collect, others may pick differently based on their own preferences.
But given its high monetary value, collector gravity, playability, and history as the Kanto Starter Pokémon, Charizard sits atop the Pokémon TCG world both figuratively and literally. Any fan would love to own this dragon and add its firepower to their collection.
While the Pokémon Company continues releasing exciting new V cards with each set, I expect Charizard VMAX to retain its "best Pokémon V" title for the foreseeable future. As long as Pokémon continues, this flying orange reptile will have a place in trainer‘s hearts and card collections.
What do you think is the best Pokémon V card? I‘d love to hear your thoughts and discuss! Feel free to leave a comment below.
