Sword & Shield—Evolving Skies

Status: Released (August 2021)

A Sky High Standard: Evolving Skies

On August 27, 2021, the Pokémon TCG reached new heights with Sword & Shield—Evolving Skies . Often hailed as the greatest set of the modern era, it combined the return of Dragon-type Pokémon with the fan-favorite Eeveelutions. The result was a set packed with playable cards and astonishingly beautiful "Alternate Arts." "Rayquaza VMAX" and "Umbreon VMAX" became the dual faces of the expansion, representing the pinnacle of both power and collectibility.

Moonbreon and the Collecting Frenzy

The crown jewel of the set, the Alternate Art "Umbreon VMAX," depicts the dark-type Pokémon reaching up toward a giant moon. Known affectionately as "Moonbreon," this card became a cultural phenomenon, commanding prices that rivaled vintage cards. Competitively, Umbreon VMAX was no slouch either; its "Dark Signal" ability acted as a reusable "Boss's Orders," making it a staple in almost every dark deck. Sword & Shield—Evolving Skies set a bar for artwork and value that few sets have ever matched.