Sword & Shield—Chilling Reign
Status: Released (June 2021)
A Cold Snap Hits with Chilling Reign
The Crown Tundra came to the TCG on June 18, 2021, with Sword & Shield—Chilling Reign. This massive set brought the legendary steeds "Ice Rider Calyrex VMAX" and "Shadow Rider Calyrex VMAX" to the forefront. Shadow Rider, in particular, became a competitive juggernaut due to its ability to accelerate psychic energy and draw cards simultaneously, creating a speedy and deadly engine that paired perfectly with "Alcremie VMAX."
The Galarian Birds Take Flight
For collectors, the set was all about the Galarian forms of the legendary bird trio: Articuno, Zapdos, and Moltres. Their alternate art versions, featuring stunning, painterly designs, instantly became some of the most desired cards in modern history. "Galarian Moltres V," with its dark, fiery aesthetic, not only looked incredible but also became a staple in dark decks for its energy acceleration ability. Sword & Shield—Chilling Reign is remembered as a "hit or miss" set due to its notoriously difficult pull rates, earning it the nickname "Chilling Pain" among the community.