A rotation in the Pokémon TCG refers to removing certain older sets from legal use in official Pokémon TCG tournaments to keep the metagame fresh and current. A Pokémon TCG rotation usually takes place once a year and often involves phasing out four or more sets. Once a set is rotated, its cards can no longer be used in decks for Standard format play (previously known as the Modified format), and in some cases, Expanded format as well. However, this restriction does not apply to the Unlimited format, where cards from any set are allowed.

Cards That Are Still Legal After Pokémon TCG Rotation

Several cards found in current-rotation sets are reprints of cards from older sets, which have already been rotated out. As long as a card appears in any set within the current Standard rotation, any previous version of that card remains legal for players to use in tournament play. For instance, at least one version of Rare Candy has been legal in every Modified format since its original release. This means even older prints from sets like Miracle of the Desert or Moonlit Pursuit [DP4] are still tournament-legal. Likewise, Basic Energy cards, excluding Fairy Energy, are permitted regardless of the set they come from.

However, if a card has been reprinted with significant changes to its effect or wording, players must have a copy of the latest version available as a reference, outside of their deck. For example, the Expansion Pack version of Energy Retrieval has a different effect compared to the one printed in the Black Collection [BW1] expansion. As such, the older Expansion Pack version could not be used when the Black Collection [BW1] version was legal for tournament play.

Best “F” Block Cards to Buy After Pokémon TCG Rotation

Cards from the “F” block have recently been rotated out of tournament play as per the newest rotation. As such, since serious players would no longer be interested in them, there are now ample opportunities for collectors to land themselves cards from this set.

Now, let us take a deep look at some of the best “F” block Pokémon TCG cards for collectors to buy after the Pokémon TCG rotation. Let us dive straight into the list!

Charizard V from Star Birth [S9] / Brilliant Stars

One of the most striking features of the Charizard V card is its stunning Full Art illustration portraying a battle between two beloved Pokémon. The artwork depicts Charizard mid-battle in a lush, jungle-like environment, locked in a dramatic face-off with Venusaur, echoing their classic rivalry from the early days of Pokémon.

Although both versions feature identical artwork and differ only in language, the English PSA 10 copy commands nearly double the price of its Japanese counterpart. In any case, for Charizard fans and collectors, this card is a valuable addition to any collection. Consider securing it now, as prices could increase further, especially after rotation, potentially driving demand.

Starmie V from Battle Region [S9a] / Astral Radiance

The card’s most eye-catching feature is its Full Art illustration by acclaimed artist Akira Komayama. Starmie V is shown gracefully spinning through a pool setting, surrounded by flowers and beach balls, conveying peace and relaxation. While Starmie may not have the mainstream fame of Charizard or Pikachu, its loyal fanbase—driven by nostalgia from the Generation 1 games and anime—has helped this card gain quiet popularity. A key factor boosting its appeal is the inclusion of Misty, a longtime fan-favorite often referred to as a “waifu” among collectors.

This card’s Japanese and English versions have seen consistent price growth. With Misty’s recent return in the Heat Wave Arena [SV9a] set, her popularity is on the rise again, making this card a smart pick-up, especially following the Pokémon TCG rotation, which has already driven values even higher.

Irida from Space Juggler [S10P] / Astral Radiance

What truly elevated this Irida card to iconic status is its “waifu” appeal—a collector term used for cards featuring beloved female characters with standout artwork. Illustrated by kirisAki, this Full Art version features Irida with a confident and determined expression, set against a beautifully detailed background that evokes the natural landscapes of Hisui.

Whether you’re a fan of Pokémon Legends: Arceus—the video game in which Irida first appeared—or a collector building a waifu-themed collection, Irida is a must-have piece. With increasing demand and limited availability, now may be the perfect time to secure a copy as prices are starting to climb after the Pokémon TCG rotation, as well as due to collector interest, pushing it even higher.

Pikachu from Dark Phantasma [S10a]

What truly makes this card stand out is its beautifully tender artwork. Pikachu is seen nestled against Akari, the female protagonist from Pokémon Legends: Arceus, in a warm and gentle embrace. The background, a sun-dappled forest, evokes a peaceful sense of harmony between Trainer and Pokémon. The art is soft, emotional, and subtly detailed, capturing the magic of companionship in a way few cards do.

While an English counterpart was released in the Lost Origin Trainer Gallery, the Japanese version from Dark Phantasma is considered superior in terms of printing quality and collector appeal. In either case, every Pikachu collector should consider adding this card to their collection, especially with the Pokémon TCG rotation having just taken place.

Mewtwo V from Pokémon Go [S10b]

The first thing that grabs your attention is the card’s cinematic artwork. Illustrated by N-DESIGN Inc., Mewtwo V is shown hovering in the middle of a bustling cityscape—presumably New York or a similar urban environment, nodding to Pokémon GO’s real-world adventure theme. The skyscrapers, glowing windows, and dynamic camera angle all contribute to a sense of movement and intensity.

Prices for this card, especially in PSA 10 condition, have remained strong. As Sword & Shield-era print runs wind down, sealed Pokémon GO boxes will become less common, which could push the value of cards like this higher over time. As such, if you are still looking to add this card to your collection, now is the best time to do so since the new Pokémon TCG rotation has just been implemented.

Giratina V from Lost Abyss [S11] / Lost Origin

One glance at this card makes it clear why it’s a fan favorite. Illustrator Shinji Kanda’s artwork showcases Giratina V not in battle, but enveloped in a chaotic, dreamlike void that perfectly evokes the Distortion World. It’s a surreal tapestry of organic shapes, shadowy voids, and ethereal color splashes that reflect Giratina V’s alien nature.

If you’re building a Legendary-themed collection or looking to invest in standout alternate arts, Giratina V is an undeniable gem that deserves a front-row spot in your binder or graded display. The price of a PSA 10 copy of this card has steadily increased over time, not just for the Japanese version from Lost Abyss [S11], but also the English version from Lost Origin. Even if you are not a Giratina collector, this card is definitely one you should consider getting due to the artwork.

Serena from Incandescent Arcana [S11a] / Silver Tempest

Serena debuted in Pokémon X and Y as a key character, either the player’s avatar or rival, depending on the player’s gender. However, it was in the Pokémon XY anime that she truly gained her following. Released in Japan in 2022, this Serena card quickly became a popular one, not just for her practical utility in gameplay, but for her overwhelming popularity among fans of the Pokémon franchise and “waifu” collectors as well.

Upon release, Serena instantly became the chase card of Incandescent Arcana [S11a]. Within weeks, prices for the Full Art and Rainbow variants surged, especially in PSA 10 condition. Three years have passed, and the card’s price in a PSA 10 has been relatively stable, with the Japanese version from Incandescent Arcana [S11a] doing better than the English version from Silver Tempest. Be sure to grab the card now, fresh off the Pokémon TCG rotation.

Lugia V from Paradigm Trigger [S12] / Silver Tempest

In the vast expanse of Pokémon lore, few Legendary Pokémon carry the same level of mystique and reverence as Lugia. Known as the “Guardian of the Seas,” Lugia is a fan favorite thanks to its prominent roles in Pokémon Silver, Pokémon the Movie 2000, and multiple anime arcs. With the release of the Paradigm Trigger expansion in October 2022, Lugia V brought this iconic Pokémon back into the spotlight, both as a powerful card in the meta and a must-have collectible for fans.

This Lugia card is a celebration of one of Pokémon’s most iconic Legendaries. It combines nostalgic reverence with competitive viability and visual excellence. No wonder, then, that when this card was first revealed, it generated a massive buzz among collectors and players alike. Upon its official release, prices soared due to high demand. With the Pokémon TCG rotation having just passed, its value could climb even further, so now might be the ideal time to secure a copy while the market remains steady.

Mewtwo VSTAR & Charizard VSTAR from VSTAR Universe [S12a]

The VSTAR Universe [S12a] set, released in late 2022 as the final Japanese set of the eighth generstion, delivered some of the most stunning and ambitious artwork the Pokémon TCG has ever seen. Among its many highlights, two Special Art Rare (SAR) cards stand out for their intertwined design and lore-driven presentation: Mewtwo VSTAR and Charizard VSTAR.

These cards form a single panoramic battle scene when placed side by side, forming a visual and collectible masterpiece. As a result, the price of a PSA 10 for both cards has started to gradually increase due to the demand for it. Even though the price has risen, it is still within the somewhat affordable range. Are you still looking to get your hands on those two cards? Act now as the effect of the Pokémon TCG rotation is likely to increase their value.

Leafeon VSTAR & Glaceon VSTAR from VSTAR Universe [S12a]

VSTAR Universe [s12a] is a set that contains many amazing artworks done by various illustrators. Among the many stunning cards in the VSTAR Universe [S12a] expansion, few match the elegance and harmony of the Leafeon VSTAR and Glaceon VSTAR SAR cards. These two Eeveelutions, beloved by fans for their elemental beauty and unique battle styles, received premium treatments that instantly elevated them to “must-have” status among collectors.

These two cards are not just another set of SAR cards—they’re a tribute to the elegance of the Eeveelutions and a showcase of TCG artistry at its finest. Whether you’re building a themed collection, chasing down the best art cards of the Sword & Shield era, or simply an Eevee fan at heart, these two are must-haves. As sealed VSTAR Universe [S12a] boxes become harder to come by and Gen 8 transitions further into legacy status, these cards are only likely to grow in value and prestige.

Pikachu from the S-P Promotional Cards

Released in November 2022, this exclusive card was part of a limited-edition collector’s set that celebrated the culmination of the Sword & Shield era. The card was included in the Precious Collector Box: Sword & Shield, which was a special release designed to commemorate the achievements and milestones of the Sword & Shield series in the Pokémon TCG.

The centerpiece of this box was the etched Full Art Pikachu promotional card. This card features Pikachu surrounded by prominent Pokémon from the Sword & Shield era, including Shadow Rider Calyrex, Rapid Strike Urshifu, Crobat, Inteleon, Zacian, and Hisuian Zoroark. These Pokémon were significant in various expansions such as Jet-Black Spirit [S6K], Rapid Strike Master [S5R], Infinity Zone [S3], Sword [S1W], and Dark Phantasma [S10a].

This Pikachu promotional card from the Precious Collector Box: Sword & Shield serves as both a nostalgic tribute to the Sword & Shield era and a valuable collector’s item. Due to its exclusive release, this promotional card is gradually increasing in value as the demand for it increases.

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