The Pokémon TCG world has seen numerous expansions come and go, but few have left a mark quite like Evolving Skies. Released in August 2021, this expansion quickly captured the hearts of collectors and players alike due to its powerful cards, stunning artwork, and the inclusion of fan-favorite Evolutions of Eevee. Fast forward to 2025, and the set is still drawing attention — not just as a playable deck, but as an investment and a collector’s gem. The question on everyone’s mind remains: Is opening an evolving skies booster box still worth the hype in 2025?

The Hype That Never Died

From the moment it hit shelves, Evolving Skies became a sensation. Featuring over 200 cards, including VMAX evolutions of Eevee’s evolutions (Umbreon, Espeon, Sylveon, Leafeon, Glaceon, and more), plus legendary dragons like Rayquaza and Dragonite, the set brought nostalgia and excitement to new heights. The card designs were nothing short of breathtaking, with alternative art cards showcasing masterful illustrations that instantly became collector favorites.

Over the years, as sealed product became more scarce, demand for Evolving Skies booster boxes only grew. It wasn’t long before prices soared in the resale market. What was once a box sold for $140 climbed well beyond $300 by mid-2024, and the price hasn’t shown much sign of slowing down in 2025.

So, what happens when you finally tear open that shiny box after years of holding onto it or paying a premium price to own one? Is the excitement justified, or is it better to keep the box sealed and watch its value grow?

The Opening Experience

Cracking open a box of Evolving Skies in 2025 is an emotional event. There’s an undeniable thrill in peeling back each booster pack’s wrapper, hoping to see that glimmer of a full-art or alternate-art card. With 36 packs in a box, it’s easy to get swept up in the adrenaline rush — especially when you know that any one of those packs could contain a high-value card.

For this particular opening, the goal was simple: chase some of the biggest cards in the set. These include the alternate-art Umbreon VMAX (“Moonbreon”), which remains one of the most sought-after cards in modern TCG history. Other cards high on the wish list include the alternate-art Rayquaza VMAX, Sylveon VMAX, and Leafeon VMAX — all of which still command high prices and admiration.

Pack by pack, the tension builds. You hit a few regular holos, some V and VMAX cards, and then — maybe — that magical moment happens. A full-art appears, the texture shimmers, and you realize it’s one of those cards. Whether it’s the Umbreon VMAX or even a lesser-known gem like the Noivern V alternate art, the joy of that pull is electric.

Value and Return on Investment

From a purely financial perspective, opening a booster box is always a gamble. In most cases, the box’s value is higher when sealed — especially with sets like Evolving Skies, which have appreciated significantly over the years. A single booster box may cost around $400 in 2025, but the average value of pulls from that box rarely matches or exceeds that number unless you’re exceptionally lucky.

That said, Evolving Skies is one of the few sets where the potential upside still tempts collectors. The alternate-art Umbreon VMAX alone can sell for over $500 raw (ungraded), and even more if in gem mint condition. Pulling that card — or others in the $150+ range — could help you break even or profit.

However, it’s important to remember that such pulls are rare. The odds of pulling the top 5 cards from the set are low. Most boxes will yield a mix of V, VMAX, and possibly one or two full arts or secret rares. Unless you hit one of the high-tier chase cards, your total value might land somewhere between $150 and $250 — less than the cost of the box.

Sentiment Over Cents

Despite the risks, there’s something to be said about the experience itself. Opening a booster box isn’t just about making money — it’s about reliving the magic that got many of us into Pokémon to begin with. The excitement, the nostalgia, the surprises — these are the intangible rewards that collectors cherish.

In a time when many are focused on grading, flipping, and investing, opening a box like Evolving Skies is a return to the roots of the hobby. It’s about discovery. For those who grew up with the TCG or even newcomers drawn by the stunning artwork and Pokémon fandom, the personal joy can outweigh the monetary loss.

Moreover, the community aspect of sharing your pulls, trading cards, and discussing your experience with fellow fans keeps the hobby alive. Whether you hit gold or miss your target, there’s value in being part of something that still connects people worldwide.

Was It Worth It?

So, was opening an Evolving Skies booster box in 2025 worth the hype?

That depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re hoping to turn a profit, the safer route is to keep the box sealed. Its value is likely to continue rising as supply diminishes and demand grows. But if you’re after the thrill, the nostalgia, or simply want to treat yourself to one of the most iconic sets of the Sword & Shield era, then yes — it can absolutely be worth it.

There’s no substitute for the experience of opening packs, discovering what treasures lie inside, and holding those cards in your hands. In a market that often prioritizes grading and resale, moments like these are a reminder of what made Pokémon special in the first place.

In the end, whether or not it’s financially “worth it” may be less important than the memories you make along the way. And for many collectors, that’s where the real value lies.

At Top Ripping, we bring the thrill of Trading Card Games (TCG) to collectors and players worldwide. Specializing in Booster Packs, Elite Trainer Boxes, Rare Collectibles, and Exclusive Sets, we provide top-quality TCG products from brands like Pokémon, Yu-Gi-Oh!, and Magic: The Gathering. Join our live ‘Rip & Ship’ events on TikTok, where we open packs in real time and ship them directly to you. With secure, fast shipping and a passion for the TCG community, we ensure an exciting and seamless experience.