Top 10 chase cards: Paldea Evolved

Posted by Stan van der Avoird on

Paldea Evolved may be the second expansion in the Scarlet & Violet era, but it makes a massive impression. With dazzling artwork, strong Trainer cards, and a mix of powerful and nostalgic Pokémon, this set is bursting with collector appeal. Whether you're into hyper rares, illustration gems, or looking to pull the most playable cards in the game, Paldea Evolved has a little something for everyone. Here are the top 10 chase cards making waves in the community.

Why Paldea Evolved is so popular

Paldea Evolved ramps up the heat with its lineup of playable EX cards and sought-after Secret Illustration Rares. The set also includes several standout Trainers, including one of the most hyped supporter cards in recent memory. Discover them all in Booster Boxes, ETBs, Booster Bundles and packs!

What makes Paldea Evolved special?

  • Home to some of the most beautiful Illustration Rares of the Scarlet & Violet era
  • Includes meta-shaping Trainer cards like Iono and Super Rod
  • Features standout new Pokémon like Tinkaton and Chien-Pao
  • Packs a punch with fan-favorites like Raichu and Tyranitar

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Tinkaton ex (Special Illustration Rare)

Don’t let the hammer fool you, Tinkaton is a fan-favorite for more than just her mischief. This Special Illustration Rare card captures her in a whimsical moment, sketching away in an art-filled room full of personality. The vibrant colors and imaginative setting make it one of the most charming SIRs in the set. Raw prices typically sit around $30–35, while PSA 10 examples have been selling near the $150–170 range. A beautiful mid-tier chase with strong long-term collector appeal.

Tinkaton ex (Special Illustration Rare)

Boss's Orders (Special Illustration Rare)

Ghetsis commands attention in this dramatic Special Illustration Rare version of Boss’s Orders. The detailed composition and imposing posture give the card an unforgettable presence, making it a must-have for Trainer collectors, especially fans of villainy in the Pokémon world. Raw prices land around $10–17, while PSA 10 graded copies typically fall in the $30–40 range. Its affordability makes it an excellent entry point for new collectors.

Boss's Orders (Special Illustration Rare)

Chi-Yu ex (Special Illustration Rare)

Chi-Yu ex brings fiery elegance to Paldea Evolved with deep red tones and a moody, stylized atmosphere. This SIR perfectly captures the Ruinous Pokémon’s mythic nature, giving it strong appeal despite not being a major competitive card. Raw copies generally sell for around $30, while PSA 10 estimates range from $80 to as high as $150 due to lower graded availability. A sleeper pick with growing appreciation.

Chi-Yu ex (Special Illustration Rare)

Iono (Ultra Rare)

Iono Ultra Rare is the budget-friendly counterpart to her powerhouse SIR version, but it’s still highly desirable. As one of the most impactful Supporters in the entire Scarlet & Violet era, Iono’s vibrant full-art card attracts both players and collectors. Raw prices for this version sit around $48–50, while PSA 10 examples have been selling between $150 and $200. It’s a staple for collectors who want a valuable card without jumping straight to the SIR.

Iono (Ultra Rare)

Super Rod (Hyper Rare)

Super Rod returns with a golden Hyper Rare treatment that appeals to both players and collectors. Its iconic role as a recovery tool makes it a competitive staple in many formats, and the shimmering gold design makes it a satisfying pull. Raw copies usually sell for around $20–30, though graded sales vary widely due to limited PSA 10 population data. A golden classic with real gameplay utility.

Super Rod (Hyper Rare)

Fun fact Paldea Evolved was the first English set to feature over 270 cards including multiple Supporter variants, making it one of the most diverse expansions in terms of card types and rarities.

Chien-Pao ex (Special Illustration Rare)

Chien-Pao ex is one of the strongest EX attackers in the set, and its SIR version blends icy blues with a striking, predatory pose. Competitive players love it for its deck-defining power, while collectors appreciate its clean, dramatic artwork. Raw prices sit around $30–40, with PSA 10 estimates in the $80–120 range due to increasing demand. A perfect example of a card that blends style with meta relevance.

Chien-Pao ex (Special Illustration Rare)

Tyranitar (Illustration Rare)

This Illustration Rare highlights Tyranitar in one of its calmest, most introspective moments, a big contrast to its typical destructive imagery. Collectors love this softer take on a fan-favorite powerhouse, making it a standout among IR cards. Raw prices land around $50–55, while PSA 10 copies often push past $90. A fantastic pull for long-time fans of the Johto titan.

Tyranitar (Illustration Rare)

Raichu (Illustration Rare)

Raichu’s Illustration Rare gives us a wonderfully cozy scene, leaning into warm lighting and soft textures that evoke pure nostalgia. This version has become a surprise hit with collectors who love more relaxed, slice-of-life artwork. Raw values typically sit around $58, while PSA 10 copies often reach $70–100 depending on population. A charming addition to any collection.

Raichu (Illustration Rare)

Iono (Special Illustration Rare)

The ultimate chase card of Paldea Evolved. Iono SIR combines competitive strength with showstopping neon artwork that captures her chaotic, energetic personality. Raw copies typically sell between $160–200, and PSA 10s often surpass $200 with some hitting $250 depending on market heat. It’s the crown jewel of the entire expansion, no surprise she’s the card everyone is hunting.

Iono (Special Illustration Rare)

Magikarp (Illustration Rare)

Magikarp steals the spotlight with one of the boldest Illustration Rares of the year, featuring dynamic motion and traditional-style artwork that elevates this usually underappreciated Pokémon. Collectors adore its dramatic composition, and its rarity on the market has kept demand high. Raw prices regularly hit $260–300+, while PSA 10 graded versions can exceed $1,000 due to low population and huge fan demand. A true underdog story turned grail card.

Magikarp (Illustration Rare)

Discover more chase cards of your favourite sets! Explore more top 10 chase cards from popular Pokémon expansions like Prismatic Evolutions, 151 and Destined Rivals!

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