Evolving Skies is considered the crown jewel of the Sword & Shield era. With its unbeatable lineup of Alternate Arts, especially for the Eeveelutions and legendary dragons, it has become the set that defines modern Pokémon collecting. Even years after release, the top chase cards from Evolving Skies continue to break records, with some of the highest prices ever seen for modern Pokémon cards.
Why Evolving Skies is so popular
What makes Evolving Skies special?
- Showcases the largest and most beloved lineup of Eeveelution Alternate Arts.
- Features legendary Dragon-types like Rayquaza and Dragonite in spectacular full-art designs.
- Holds multiple cards that consistently rank among the most expensive modern Pokémon pulls.
Honorable Mentions
While not in the top 10, these cards are still huge collector favorites:
- Rayquaza V Alt Art: a dynamic card with Zinnia, loved by Dragon-type collectors.
- Glaceon V Alt Art: a cozy, slice-of-life design featuring multiple Pokémon.
- Espeon V Alt Art: the rooftop scene that paved the way for the VMAX version’s popularity.
- Umbreon V Alt Art: the moody counterpart to the Moonbreon, still very collectible.
- Leafeon V Alt Art: playful farming scene that’s one of the most charming cards in the set.
1. Umbreon VMAX Alt Art - #215
Known universally as the “Moonbreon”, this card shows Umbreon stretching toward the moon in a haunting, dreamlike nightscape. It has become one of the most iconic modern cards, rivaling even vintage grails in popularity. Its rarity, combined with Umbreon’s massive fanbase, keeps it at the very top.
Market value: Around $1,100–$1,200 raw.
2. Rayquaza VMAX Alt Art - #218
Rayquaza coils through the sky above a lush landscape, creating a dramatic sense of scale. As one of the most legendary Pokémon in the franchise, its Alternate Art status combined with breathtaking composition makes it one of the most sought-after Dragon cards of all time.
Market value: Around $800–$900 raw.
3. Sylveon VMAX Alt Art - #212
This whimsical scene shows Sylveon floating in a pastel dreamscape, surrounded by other Pokémon like Eevee, Vaporeon, and Flareon. The artwork is soft and magical, perfectly fitting Sylveon’s fairy-like design, and has made it a must-own card for Eeveelution collectors.
Market value: Around $600–$650 raw.
4. Leafeon VMAX Alt Art - #205
Leafeon is depicted trying to pull a massive hay bale, in one of the most playful Alternate Arts of the Sword & Shield block. Its countryside charm, combined with Leafeon’s devoted fanbase, has pushed this card into the top tier of Evolving Skies pulls.
Market value: Around $500–$550 raw.
5. Glaceon VMAX Alt Art - #209
This cozy scene shows Glaceon lying on a frozen pond while other Pokémon gather around, playing in the snow. The combination of slice-of-life storytelling with a legendary Eeveelution makes this one of the most visually satisfying cards to display.
Market value: Around $450–$500 raw.
Fun fact
Evolving Skies is often nicknamed “Eevee Heroes International” because of how many Alternate Arts feature Eeveelutions. Collectors frequently treat it as the definitive modern set for completing an Eeveelution binder page.
6. Espeon VMAX Alt Art - #270
A surreal card featuring Espeon floating above a library, glowing with psychic power. This card’s dreamlike quality makes it one of the most unique and memorable Eeveelution cards ever produced. Originally released as a promo in Japan, it became one of the most sought-after cards in Evolving Skies internationally.
Market value: Around $400–$450 raw.
7. Dragonite V Alt Art - #192
Dragonite drifts sleepily among the clouds in one of the most charming Alternate Arts of the set. Its whimsical style stands out compared to the more dramatic cards, giving Dragonite fans one of the most beloved modern artworks.
Market value: Around $300–$350 raw.
8. Noivern V Alt Art - #196
Dubbed the “Batman card,” this Alternate Art shows Noivern perched in a dark, gothic cityscape, wings spread like a superhero. Its unique atmosphere makes it an instant standout and a favorite for collectors looking for something different.
Market value: Around $250–$280 raw.
9. Sylveon V Alt Art - #184
This playful card shows Sylveon in a colorful bakery, surrounded by cakes and sweets. Its pastel tones and charming vibe make it one of the most endearing Eeveelution cards in the set, appealing to collectors who love lighthearted designs.
Market value: Around $200–$230 raw.
10. Umbreon V Alt Art - #189
The prelude to the Moonbreon, this Alternate Art depicts Umbreon under a night sky, exuding mystery and elegance. While overshadowed by its VMAX counterpart, it remains a high-value pull that Umbreon fans prize.
Market value: Around $180–$200 raw.
Discover more chase cards of your favourite sets!
From Scarlet & Violet 151 to Destined Rivals, every set has iconic cards that define it. Explore our other guides to see which cards are worth chasing.
Buy Evolving Skies
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