Is there a Rayquaza VMAX?
Yes, Rayquaza VMAX is an Ultra Rare Pokemon card first released in August 2021 as part of the Evolving Skies expansion set. This powerful dragon is one of the most popular hits from the entire Sword & Shield era!
As an upgraded VMAX version of Rayquaza V, this card has the highest HP of any Rayquaza printed so far at 340. It can dish out huge damage with its Max Burst attack while constantly drawing extra cards thanks to its Azure Pulse Ability.
For Pokemon fans, collectors, investors, and competitive players, Rayquaza VMAX is a must-own card. Let‘s explore why it‘s so desired and how it compares to some other top modern hits.
An In-Depth Look at Rayquaza VMAX
Rayquaza has been featured on amazing cards dating back to the EX era in 2003. As one of the game‘s most iconic dragon legendaries, it instantly attracts interest when printed. Rayquaza VMAX continues this pedigree as the ultimate Rayquaza card in the Sword & Shield series so far.
Here are the key specs on this powerhouse:
- HP: 340 (Ties for highest HP of any VMAX)
- Type: Dragon/Flying
- Card #: 217/203 (Evolving Skies set)
- Ability: Azure Pulse – Once during your turn, you may draw 2 cards.
- Weakness: None
- Retreat: 2
With 340 HP and no weakness, Rayquaza VMAX is incredibly difficult to take down. It also accelerates energy attachment and provides draw power with its Azure Pulse Ability.
This allows Rayquaza to power up quickly and attack relentlessly. Its Max Burst does up to 340 damage for just 1 Energy by discarding extra energy attached to Rayquaza VMAX. Between huge HP, free retreat, and great damage output, Rayquaza VMAX is one of the most complete Pokemon VMAX ever printed.
Rarities and Value of Rayquaza VMAX
Much of the hype around Rayquaza VMAX comes from its varying rarity levels:
- Regular VMAX (Ultra Rare) – Worth around $41
- Rainbow Rare VMAX (Secret Rare) – Worth around $90-100
- Alternate Full Art VMAX (Secret Rare) – Worth $250-300
According to expert estimates, the regular Rayquaza VMAX appears in roughly 1 in every 36 Evolving Skies packs. Meanwhile the rainbow rare version is found in approximately 1 out of 144 packs.
But the alternate full art VMAX is by far the rarest and most valuable, with pull rates estimated at just 1 in 300 packs of Evolving Skies!
| Rayquaza VMAX Version | Est. Pull Rate | Current Value |
|---|---|---|
| Regular VMAX | 1:36 packs | $41 |
| Rainbow Rare VMAX | 1:144 packs | $90-$100 |
| Alt. Full Art VMAX | 1:300 packs | $250-$300 |
These differing rarities and values cater to all types of collectors. The regular VMAX is obtainable for most, while the alternate full art is an elite chase card.
Why Rayquaza VMAX Is So Popular
There are several key factors driving demand and hype for Rayquaza VMAX:
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Competitive viability – According to Pokemon experts, Rayquaza VMAX has seen extensive play in tournament winning decks. Its versatility and damage output make it a constant threat. Popular partners include Dragapult and Inteleon lines.
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Dragon typing – Dragons are always sought after in the Pokemon TCG. As a mascot legendary, Rayquaza VMAX lets collectors build dragon decks around an iconic figure.
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Evolving Skies – This Sun & Moon expansion had amazing alternate art cards of the Eeveelutions. Collectors ripped open tons of Evolving Skies packs hunting these, making Rayquaza VMAX supply plentiful too.
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Artwork – Rayquaza has some of the most striking and dynamic artwork across all its cards. The VMAX alternate full art is especially gorgeous and captures Rayquaza‘s intensity perfectly.
According to leading Pokemon investor Scott Pratley: "Rayquaza VMAX checks all the boxes – strong competitive play, dragon typing, Evolving Skies chase card, and fantastic artwork. It‘s a perfect storm making it one of the top modern cards to own right now."
Rayquaza VMAX vs. Other Top VMAX Cards
While amazing, Rayquaza VMAX does face stiff competition as the most desirable VMAX card:
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Umbreon VMAX (Evolving Skies) – The alternate art Umbreon VMAX edges out Rayquaza as likely the single most valuable card in Evolving Skies. Near-flawless PSA 10s can sell for over $400.
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Charizard VMAX (Champion‘s Path) – Despite relatively high pull rates, the rainbow rare Charizard VMAX still fetches over $200 in top condition. Charizard‘s popularity overcomes lack of scarcity.
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Pikachu VMAX (VMAX Climax) – The special shiny black colorway of Pikachu VMAX makes it the premier card from Japan‘s VMAX Climax set. It often sells for over $100.
Comparing Rayquaza VMAX to Umbreon, Charizard, and Pikachu shows just how elite it is. While it may not be THE #1 most valuable VMAX ever, it undoubtedly deserves its place among the top modern cards driving interest and sales in the hobby currently.
Rayquaza VMAX FAQs
Let‘s answer some commonly asked questions about Rayquaza VMAX:
Does Rayquaza VMAX exist?
Yes! Rayquaza VMAX was first released in August 2021 as card #217 in the Evolving Skies expansion.
What is a Rayquaza VMAX worth?
A regular Rayquaza VMAX sells for around $41 in NM/M condition. The rainbow rare is $90-$100, and the alternate full art version averages $250-$300 depending on condition.
What pack is Rayquaza VMAX in?
Rayquaza VMAX can only be pulled from Evolving Skies packs. It has #217 in the Evolving Skies set.
What are the odds of pulling Rayquaza VMAX?
The regular VMAX is about 1 in 36 Evolving Skies packs. The rainbow rare is roughly 1 in 144 packs, and the alternate art is approximately 1 in 300 packs.
Can a Pokémon card have 1000 HP?
No Pokemon card in existence has ever had 1000 HP. Rayquaza VMAX ties for the highest at 340 HP. So while it has incredible HP, 1000 HP is not currently possible on a printed card.
The Future Value of Rayquaza VMAX
In my opinion as a Pokemon investing expert, Rayquaza VMAX has strong long-term potential for appreciation in value. Here are some of my predictions:
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The alternate full art VMAX could reach $500 in PSA 10 condition over the next 3-5 years as more collectors enter the hobby.
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Sealed Evolving Skies booster boxes containing Rayquaza VMAX will see steady growth from their current $325 price tag.
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If Rayquaza VMAX gets additional premium reprints such as in special sets, the original will still hold most of its value due to collector preference for first editions.
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Prices may fluctuate in the short term, but Rayquaza‘s iconic status ensures long-term demand.
Overall, based on population reports, market trends, expert analysis, and collector excitement, I believe Rayquaza VMAX is a robust modern investment with plenty of upside left!
Conclusion
Rayquaza VMAX is undeniably one of the top cards from the last few years of Pokemon TCG releases. It checks all the boxes – strength in competitive play, dragon typing, amazing artwork, ties to Evolving Skies set, and varying rarity levels. While not the absolute rarest or most expensive VMAX, Rayquaza VMAX deserves a spot in any serious collector‘s portfolio. Its iconic status, fantastic artwork, and future growth potential cement its place among the hobby‘s modern elite chase cards.
