When Mega Evolution was introduced to the Pokémon franchise in sixth-generation main-series video games Pokémon X and Y, it fundamentally changed how the games were played and almost immediately became an overnight sensation among the fanbase. Thus, when the Poncho-wearing Pikachu series of promotional Pokémon TCG cards was released back in Gen 6, it only made sense to directly reference this new feature.

About Poncho-wearing Pikachu (XY-P Promotional Cards 274/XY-P)

The four Mega Evolutions which the four Pikachu on this card are seen “cosplaying” as are the Mega Evolutions of Gallade, Rayquaza, Ampharos, and Mawile. It may be true that in the base forms of the four Pokémon depicted on the ponchos, only Rayquaza is anything near the status of a fan favorite. That being said, it must also be kept in mind that this is a sixth-generation card. Since Mega Evolution was introduced in Gen 6, this card thus has a novelty factor while indirectly showcasing this new feature in its own gimmicky way.

Since this is a promotional card featuring Pikachu, it would always have been expected to carry significant value. In addition, this card is part of a promotional set of Poncho-wearing Pikachu cards. Therefore, it’s certain to hold appeal for completionists. There’s also the fact that like all other Gen 6 cards, this one is likely to see a new spike in interest due to the upcoming release of Pokémon Legends Z-A, the upcoming prequel to X and Y—especially since it’s been confirmed that Legends Z-A will bring back the previously discontinued Mega Evolution.

Adding further value to the card by giving it a touch of authenticity is the Pokémon Center logo on its right side. The logo is there because this card was originally made available to players who accumulated 3 Play Points by participating in events held as part of the Pokémon Center Mega Battle. The Pokémon Center Mega Battle events were held between 23 July and 31 August 2016 at participating Pokémon Centers and Pokémon Stores across Japan.

Release Details

This card only exists in Japanese.

A Poncho-wearing Pikachu (XY-P Promotional Cards 274/XY-P) card goes for more than just a little cash—a copy goes for 300,000 JPY (~US$2,037).

In other TCG-related news, check out the Enies Lobby card from Pillars of Strength [OP-03]. Alternatively, you can also head over to the SNKRDUNK App via the banner below and find the top trending and latest single cards and boxes.