Top 5 Favorite Illustration Rares in Scarlet & Violet 151
The Scarlet & Violet: 151 set has taken the Pokémon TCG world by storm, celebrating the original 151 Pokémon with some of the most breathtaking Illustration Rares to date. We’ve carefully selected our Top 5 favorites based on their stunning artwork, nostalgic charm, and collector appeal—these cards are truly must-haves for any Pokémon fan.
#5 Nidoking
Nidoking shines with bold retro vibes that instantly bring back memories of the early Pokémon era. Its dynamic pose surrounded by lush green vegetation highlights Nidoking’s regal dominance, while the rich purple tones remind collectors why this Pokémon was a classic favorite.
Collector’s Note: Nidoking’s Illustration Rare stands out not just for its art but also for its rarity, making it a great addition for fans of classic Kanto Pokémon.
#4 Wartortle
Wartortle takes you on a serene dive into its underwater world. The calm blues, minimalist design, and the graceful motion of Wartortle swimming create a peaceful, almost meditative scene. It’s a standout card for Water-type fans looking for a clean and elegant addition to their collection.
Collector’s Note: This Wartortle card complements the other Water starters in the set perfectly—collecting the full set of Illustration Rares adds value and cohesion to your collection.
#3 Bulbasaur
Bulbasaur feels right at home in this lush forest scene, basking in dappled sunlight with leaves all around. This card perfectly captures Bulbasaur’s calm, natural vibe, making it one of the most tranquil and nostalgic Illustration Rares of the Scarlet & Violet: 151 set.
Collector’s Note: As one of the most iconic Gen 1 starters, Bulbasaur remains a fan favorite—this card is especially appealing for collectors who focus on starter Pokémon or nature-inspired art.
#2 Squirtle
Few cards exude pure joy like Squirtle’s Illustration Rare. Playfully splashing in the waves on a sunny beach, Squirtle’s carefree energy is perfectly captured. Mitsuhiro Arita’s detailed depiction of water motion and Squirtle’s delight make this card an instant nostalgic favorite for longtime fans.
Collector’s Note: With Squirtle’s enduring popularity, this card has strong demand among collectors looking to complete the starter trio.
#1 Charmander
At the top of our list is Charmander, whose artwork tugs at the heartstrings. Set at the bottom of a canyon, Charmander looks wistfully at the sky, evoking the iconic scene from the Pokémon anime when Ash finds Charmander abandoned in the rain. The warm canyon tones paired with Charmander’s hopeful gaze make this card both visually stunning and deeply sentimental.
Collector’s Note: Charmander Illustration Rares are highly sought-after, often commanding strong value due to their emotional connection and nostalgic appeal. It’s a centerpiece for any Scarlet & Violet 151 collection.
Why These Cards Stand Out
These Illustration Rares from Pokémon Scarlet & Violet 151 aren’t just about adding beautiful art to your collection—they capture the very essence of what makes the Pokémon TCG so beloved. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the series or a collector with an eye for detail, these cards represent the creativity and magic that have drawn fans in for decades and are definitely must-haves!