How Rare is Lycanroc V? An In-Depth Expert Analysis
Lycanroc V is an ultra rare Pokémon trading card that many collectors are eager to add to their collections. But its rarity makes finding this card a real challenge. Just how unusual and valuable is the Sword & Shield Lycanroc V? Let‘s analyze the data and assess this rocky wolf‘s true rarity.
Rarity Breakdown: The Hard Numbers
According to Troll and Toad, Lycanroc V has a rarity of 091/203 based on the Sword & Shield – Battle Styles set list. This means it is the 91st rarest card out of 203 different cards total in the Battle Styles expansion.
Specifically, Lycanroc V falls into the Ultra Rare tier, making it much harder to pull than Common, Uncommon, Rare, and Rare Holo cards from the same set.
I‘ve compiled some key statistics to showcase just how rare pulling a Lycanroc V truly is:
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1 in 72 packs – The average pull rate from Battle Styles booster packs based on mass openings.
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1 in 240 packs – The estimated pull rate from Build & Battle Boxes which have lesser odds.
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1 in 300 packs – The pull rate from Sword & Shield Premier Draft packs.
| Product | Estimated Pull Rate |
|---|---|
| Battle Styles Booster Pack | 1 in 72 packs |
| Build & Battle Box | 1 in 240 packs |
| Premier Draft Pack | 1 in 300 packs |
As you can see, your odds of pulling a Lycanroc V depends heavily on what product you open. But no matter what, it will take extreme luck!
V Cards have some of the lowest pull rates aside from Secret Rares. For example, you are 3 times more likely to get a standard VMAX than you are to pull Lycanroc V. This makes the card quite elusive indeed.
Estimated Value: Price for Near Mint and Graded
Due to its ultra rare status, Lycanroc V holds a respectable value on the secondary collector‘s market. Prices currently trend around $7 – $10 for Near Mint raw copies according to TCGPlayer.
Graded copies can sell for even more. PSA and BGS are the most trusted grading companies, with Mint 9 graded Lycanroc V‘s fetching $15 – $25 on average. The most pristine Gem Mint 10 copies have sold above $50 in some cases, but these are extremely difficult to come by.
As a modern card, Lycanroc V is reasonably obtainable for collectors compared to the astronomical prices of vintage offerings like 1st Edition Charizard. But make no mistake – it still commands a healthy premium.
Where To Find This Elusive Pokémon
Now that we‘ve established the rarity of Lycanroc V, where and how can you obtain the coveted card for your own collection? Here are some of your best options:
Booster Packs – You can try your hand pulling it directly from Sword & Shield – Battle Styles packs. Go for booster boxes, Elite Trainer Boxes, sleeved booster packs, or third party repacks to maximize your chances. Just know that it could take 72+ packs on average to hit the jackpot!
Pre-Built Decks – Lycanroc V was reprinted in the V Battle Deck: Lycanroc vs. Corviknight. You‘re guaranteed the card by purchasing the full 60 card deck. It retails around $20, much cheaper than chasing it in random packs.
Singles Market – Skip the thrill of the hunt and just buy the card you want! Sites like TCGPlayer, Troll & Toad, and eBay offer Lycanroc V as a single. Expect to pay the market price of $7-$25 for Near Mint copies.
Trading – Swap and barter for Lycanroc V with fellow collectors online or at your local game store. You can exchange duplicate cards from your own collection to save money.
Events & Tournaments – Enter your local Pokémon TCG tournaments or find special gaming events where Lycanroc V is distributed as a participation prize!
Why Lycanroc V is So Popular
Beyond the inherent appeal of its ultra rare status, Lycanroc V is highly sought after thanks to its competitive viability, unique design, and fan favorite Pokémon status.
With a devastating Crashing Fangs attack that hits for 200 damage, Lycanroc V is a powerhouse in tournament play. It can one-shot opponent‘s Vs and even some VMAXes. This strategic strength keeps competitive players chasing the card.
Lycanroc V depicts the rare Dusk Form evolution of Rockruff, which has a unique method of evolving and a distinctive design. Dusk Form‘s red eyes and flowing mane have made it a fan favorite among collectors.
Lycanroc itself is a very popular Pokémon from the Alola region. It plays a major role in the Pokémon Sun & Moon anime under Ash‘s ownership. This exposure and beloved status drive up interest in Lycanroc cards like the V version.
As a relevant V series card, Lycanroc V will maintain its value and demand for years to come. The V mechanic has replaced GX‘s as the modern ultra rare class since debuting in 2019‘s Sword & Shield base set.
The Verdict: Hard-To-Find Wolf Worth the Chase
After analyzing all the data, it‘s clear that Lycanroc V deserves its ultra rare classification. Between low pull rates, competitive viability, and sheer Pokémon popularity, this card is highly coveted by casual and hardcore collectors alike.
It will take persistence and luck to add Lycanroc V to your collection. But the hunt is worth it to land this unique and powerful rare. Open booster packs strategically, trade smartly, or just pay market price for your best chance at catching this elusive wolf!