Shining Fates

Status: Released (February 2021)

A Shiny Sequel in Shining Fates

Just when collectors thought their wallets were safe, Pokémon released Shining Fates on February 19, 2021. Acting as a spiritual successor to Hidden Fates, this special expansion also featured a "Shiny Vault," this time containing over 100 shiny Pokémon from the ultra-popular Sword & Shield generation. The prize of the set was the "Shiny Charizard VMAX," a card that commanded incredible prices and caused retail shortages worldwide.

Ditto VMAX and Control Decks

While the shiny hunt was the main event, the set offered some unique gameplay tools. "Ditto VMAX" allowed players to copy the attack of their opponent's active Pokémon, leading to some hilarious mirror matchups. The set also reprinted powerful staples like "Crobat V," making them accessible to budget players for the first time. Shining Fates was less about shifting the meta and more about celebrating the joy of collecting, cementing its legacy as one of the most fun sets to open.