If you've ever delved into the vibrant world of Pokémon TCG collecting, you know that certain sets hold a special, almost mythical allure. Among them, Pokémon Generations Booster Packs, Boxes & Collection Products stand out—not just for their stunning cards, but for their unique distribution model and enduring appeal. This isn't just another expansion; it's a celebration, a nostalgic trip designed to honor 20 years of Pokémon magic.
But finding and navigating the landscape of Generations products today can be a puzzle. Were there traditional booster boxes? What’s the deal with the Radiant Collection? And how do you ensure you’re getting the real deal in a market often fraught with fakes? Consider this your definitive guide, written to empower you with the knowledge needed to confidently explore, collect, and appreciate this remarkable set.
At a Glance: Key Takeaways for Generations Collectors
- A 20th Anniversary Set: Pokémon Generations was released in 2016 to celebrate the franchise's 20th anniversary, primarily featuring Pokémon from Generations I through VI.
- No Traditional Booster Boxes: Unlike most sets, Generations was never sold in full booster boxes. Its packs were exclusively found within special collection products.
- The Radiant Collection: A distinctive sub-set within Generations (RC1-RC32) with a unique holo pattern and artwork, highly sought after by collectors.
- Elite Trainer Boxes (ETBs): The most common source of sealed Generations booster packs, containing 10 packs, dice, sleeves, and other accessories.
- Mythical & Red & Blue Collection Boxes: Other key sources for packs, often bundled with promo cards, pins, or figures.
- High Value on the Secondary Market: Sealed Generations products and many individual cards, especially from the Radiant Collection, command significant prices due to rarity and demand.
- Watch for Fakes: The popularity and value of Generations make it a target for counterfeiters, particularly sealed packs and high-value singles.
What Makes Generations So Special? A Look Back
Released in February 2016, the Pokémon Generations set wasn't your typical TCG expansion. It was a love letter, a commemorative release for Pokémon's 20th anniversary. This meant a deliberate curation of cards, focusing on iconic Pokémon from the franchise's history up to that point. The set masterfully blended nostalgia with modern gameplay mechanics, offering a diverse range of powerful EX Pokémon, full-art cards, and, most notably, the enchanting Radiant Collection.
Generations served a dual purpose: it celebrated the past while engaging players and collectors in the present. Its unique distribution model—eschewing traditional booster boxes for specialized collection products—only added to its mystique and eventual rarity, shaping its enduring appeal in the secondary market. For many, collecting Generations wasn't just about filling binders; it was about reliving cherished memories of their Pokémon journey.
The Generations Booster Pack: What's Inside?
A standard Pokémon Generations booster pack contains 10 cards, plus a code card for the Pokémon TCG Online. Like other sets, you'll find a mix of common, uncommon, rare, and holographic cards. However, what truly sets Generations apart is the possibility of pulling cards from its highly coveted "Radiant Collection."
Each pack typically contains:
- 6 Common cards
- 3 Uncommon cards
- 1 Rare or higher (Holo Rare, EX, Full Art, or Radiant Collection card)
- 1 Code Card
The thrill of opening a Generations pack often comes down to that final slot. Will it be a powerful Pokémon-EX, a beautifully illustrated full art, or perhaps a glimmering gem from the Radiant Collection? This anticipation is a big part of what makes cracking open these packs so satisfying, even years later.
Unpacking the Radiant Collection
You can't talk about Generations without shining a spotlight on the Radiant Collection (RC). This special subset, numbered RC1/RC32 through RC32/RC32, is identifiable by its unique card numbering and a distinctive holographic pattern reminiscent of the Japanese "Shiny Collection" set. The artwork for these cards is consistently beautiful, often featuring Pokémon in whimsical or adorable poses, with a vibrant, sparkling finish that truly makes them pop.
The Radiant Collection includes some of the most sought-after cards in the entire Generations set, such as Full Art Gardevoir EX (RC30/RC32) and Sylveon EX (RC21/RC32). These cards aren't just pretty faces; they represent a significant portion of the set's overall value and collector interest. If you're chasing high-value pulls from Generations, your eyes will likely be fixed on these radiant beauties.
Booster Boxes: The Myth and Reality
Here’s where things get a little tricky for new collectors approaching Generations: there were never traditional booster boxes released for the Pokémon Generations set. This is perhaps the single most important piece of information you need to know about collecting Generations.
Most Pokémon TCG sets are distributed in 36-pack booster boxes, designed for retailers and competitive players. Generations broke this mold. Its booster packs were exclusively bundled within various collection products, such as Elite Trainer Boxes, special Mythical Pokémon Collection boxes, and Pokémon Red & Blue Collection boxes.
What you might occasionally see advertised as a "Pokémon Generations Booster Box" on secondary markets like eBay or specialized forums is almost certainly a custom-assembled, unofficial box. These are typically empty display boxes filled with loose, graded, or raw packs. While they can be legitimate collections of packs, they were never factory-sealed products from The Pokémon Company International (TPCi). Always exercise extreme caution if you encounter such a listing, as the legitimacy and integrity of the packs inside cannot be guaranteed by TPCi. Your best bet for sealed packs remains the official collection products.
Elite Trainer Boxes (ETBs): The Cornerstone of Generations Collecting
If there's one product synonymous with Generations booster packs, it's the Elite Trainer Box (ETB). These were the primary way collectors could get a larger quantity of sealed Generations packs in one go.
Each Generations Elite Trainer Box typically contains:
- 10 Pokémon Generations booster packs
- 65 card sleeves featuring artwork from the set (often Charizard or Pikachu)
- 45 Pokémon TCG Energy cards
- A player's guide to the Generations expansion
- 6 damage-counter dice
- 1 competition-legal coin-flip die
- 2 acrylic condition markers
- A collector's box with 4 dividers to keep everything organized
- A code card for the Pokémon TCG Online
The Generations ETBs are iconic, easily recognizable by their vibrant artwork, particularly the Charizard ETB. Because they offered a substantial number of packs along with useful accessories, they became highly sought-after. Today, a sealed Generations ETB is a prized possession, not just for the potential pulls but as a collectible item in itself, often fetching significant prices on the secondary market. Their value reflects both the scarcity of the packs and the overall desirability of the set.
Other Generations Collection Products: Beyond the ETB
While ETBs were prominent, Generations packs were also distributed through a fascinating array of other collection products, each offering unique promotional cards, pins, or figures. These products are crucial for understanding the set's complete landscape and were often the only way to acquire specific promo cards.
Pokémon Red & Blue Collection Boxes
These were perhaps the most visually striking of the Generations products, paying homage to the original Pokémon games. Each box featured a different iconic Kanto starter Pokémon (Charizard, Blastoise, Venusaur, and Pikachu).
A typical Red & Blue Collection Box included:
- 4 Pokémon Generations booster packs
- 1 sculpted figure of the featured Pokémon (Charizard, Blastoise, Venusaur, or Pikachu)
- 1 full-art promo Pokémon-EX card of the featured Pokémon (e.g., Charizard-EX, Blastoise-EX)
- A code card
These boxes were fantastic value upon release and are now significant collector's items. The figures are well-regarded, and the full-art EX promos are exclusive to these boxes, making them essential for a master set completionist.
Mythical Pokémon Collection Boxes
Throughout 2016, TPCi released a series of Mythical Pokémon Collection boxes, each spotlighting a different Mythical Pokémon from across the generations (starting with Mew in February and continuing monthly). While these boxes contained promo cards and pins, they also often included Generations booster packs, making them another vital source.
A typical Mythical Pokémon Collection Box featured:
- 2 Pokémon Generations booster packs
- 1 full-art foil promo card of the featured Mythical Pokémon
- 1 collector's pin featuring the featured Mythical Pokémon
- A code card
These boxes offered a slower, staggered release of Generations packs, tying into a year-long celebration. Collectors looking for specific Mythical Pokémon promos would inevitably acquire Generations packs in the process, further diversifying the distribution.
Generations Blister Packs & Premium Collection
Occasionally, you might find Generations packs in three-pack blister formats, often bundled with a special promo card (like an alternate art Machamp or Slowbro). There was also a special "Pokémon Generations Elite Trainer Box - Pikachu" and the "Mythical Pokémon Collection - Jirachi Pin Box" that sometimes included more packs than the standard monthly boxes. These smaller, more limited releases meant that Generations packs trickled into the market in many different ways, making it a scavenger hunt for dedicated fans.
The cumulative effect of this varied distribution is a scarcity of sealed Generations packs today. Unlike sets where you could just buy a booster box and crack 36 packs, Generations required buying numerous distinct products. This is a key driver of its current market value.
Identifying Authentic Generations Products: A Crucial Skill
With the high value of sealed Generations products and individual chase cards, the secondary market is unfortunately ripe for counterfeits. Being able to spot a fake is a critical skill for any serious collector.
Here are some key things to look for:
- Packaging Quality: Authentic Pokémon products feature crisp, high-quality printing. Look for blurry images, dull colors, misspellings, or cheap-feeling plastic wraps. Counterfeit packaging often feels flimsy or overly slick.
- Booster Pack Seals: Genuine Generations packs have very consistent crimp patterns and clean seals. Fakes might have sloppy, uneven, or heat-sealed edges that look amateurish. The pack material itself should feel substantial, not thin or easily torn.
- Card Quality: If you're buying loose packs or singles, inspect the cards themselves.
- Colors: Authentic cards have rich, consistent colors. Fakes often have faded, washed-out, or overly bright colors.
- Texture/Finish: Genuine Pokémon cards have a specific feel. Holographic patterns should be vibrant and dynamic, not dull or static. The Radiant Collection cards, in particular, have a unique shimmer that's hard to replicate poorly.
- Font: Pay close attention to the font used for card names, HP, and attacks. Fakes frequently use incorrect or slightly off fonts.
- Energy Symbols: These should be clear, well-defined, and correctly colored.
- Card Stock: Authentic cards have a certain thickness and snap. Fakes often feel too thin, too stiff, or have a glossy, waxy coating. You shouldn't be able to easily see through the card.
- Code Cards: Every authentic Generations booster pack includes a code card for the Pokémon TCG Online. Fake packs often omit these or include non-functional codes.
- Source Credibility: Always buy from reputable sellers, whether online or in person. Check seller reviews, return policies, and their history. If a deal seems too good to be true, it almost certainly is. For highly valuable sealed products, consider buying from a well-known, established TCG retailer rather than an individual with no track record.
Valuation & Rarity: What to Expect from Generations
The value of Pokémon Generations cards and sealed products has steadily climbed since its release, driven by its unique distribution, nostalgic appeal, and the beauty of its Radiant Collection. Understanding what makes certain items valuable can guide your collecting efforts.
Chase Cards
While the entire Complete Generations card list boasts some fantastic artwork, a few cards stand out as major "chase" cards:
- Mega Charizard EX (Full Art, 12/83): Charizard is always king, and this full-art variant is a powerhouse, both visually and in terms of demand.
- Pikachu (RC29/RC32): From the Radiant Collection, this adorable full-art Pikachu is incredibly popular and commands a high price.
- Gardevoir EX (Full Art, RC30/RC32): Another Radiant Collection gem, this beautiful full art is highly sought after.
- Blastoise EX (Full Art, 21/83) & Venusaur EX (Full Art, 14/83): The other Kanto starters also have valuable full-art versions.
- N (Full Art, 68/83): A popular Supporter card with a stunning full-art treatment.
The values of these cards, especially in high grades (e.g., PSA 9 or 10), can range from dozens to hundreds of dollars, sometimes more. TCGPlayer and eBay sold listings are excellent resources for checking current market prices.
Sealed Product Value
Sealed Generations products—especially Elite Trainer Boxes and the Red & Blue Collection Boxes—are highly prized. Their value has appreciated significantly over time, making them attractive investments for some collectors.
- Generations Elite Trainer Boxes: These are arguably the most valuable sealed products from the set, with prices often in the hundreds of dollars, depending on condition and artwork (Charizard being particularly desirable).
- Red & Blue Collection Boxes: Also fetch substantial prices, especially if sealed and in good condition, due to the exclusive figures and full-art promos.
- Mythical Pokémon Collection Boxes: These vary more in price based on the featured Mythical Pokémon, but sealed ones still command a premium.
The allure of potentially pulling a high-value Radiant Collection card or a coveted full-art EX from an untouched pack continues to fuel demand for these sealed products.
Where to Buy Generations Products Today
Since Generations products are long out of print, you'll need to turn to the secondary market. This requires diligence and careful selection of sellers.
- Reputable Online Marketplaces:
- eBay: By far the largest marketplace for individual sellers. Filter by "Sold Listings" to get a realistic sense of current prices. Prioritize sellers with high ratings and a strong track record of selling TCG products. Always review photos carefully.
- TCGPlayer: While primarily for singles, TCGPlayer also has sellers offering sealed product. They have a robust seller rating system, making it easier to trust your purchase.
- StockX / GOAT: These platforms, initially for sneakers, have expanded into collectibles and offer authentication services, which can be a huge plus for high-value sealed products like ETBs.
- Specialized TCG Retailers: Many online stores that specialize in rare or out-of-print Pokémon products will occasionally stock Generations items. These retailers often have expertise in authentication and better customer service. Do some searching for "vintage Pokémon TCG store" or "out-of-print Pokémon products."
- Local Card Shops (LCS): Your local comic or game store might surprise you with some hidden gems. While prices might be higher, you get the benefit of in-person inspection and immediate gratification.
- Online Pokémon TCG Communities: Facebook groups, Reddit communities (like r/pokemontcg or r/pokemoncardcollectors), and Discord servers dedicated to Pokémon collecting can be great places to find sellers or get recommendations. Exercise caution and use PayPal Goods & Services for buyer protection when dealing with individuals.
Important Buying Tip: When purchasing sealed Generations packs (e.g., loose packs from an ETB break), ask for proof of the product's origin if possible. While not always feasible, a reputable seller might show you photos of the ETB or collection box the packs came from. This adds a layer of confidence.
Tips for Collecting Generations: Maximize Your Experience
Embarking on a Generations collecting journey can be incredibly rewarding. Here are some tips to help you make the most of it:
- Define Your Goal: Are you aiming for a complete master set (all cards, including reverse holos and Radiant Collection)? Just the Radiant Collection? Or simply a few specific chase cards? Having a clear goal will help you budget and focus your efforts.
- Budget Wisely: Generations products are expensive. Set a realistic budget and stick to it. Prioritize your purchases based on your collecting goals. Sometimes buying singles of your desired cards is more cost-effective than gambling on sealed product, especially given the current prices.
- Learn the Ropes of the Secondary Market: Understand grading, market fluctuations, and how to spot fakes. Knowledge is your best defense against overpaying or falling victim to scams.
- Consider Buying Graded Singles: For high-value chase cards, buying them already graded (e.g., PSA 9 or 10, BGS 9.5 or 10) can offer peace of mind regarding authenticity and condition. While more expensive upfront, it removes the risk of pulling a lower-grade card from a sealed pack.
- Enjoy the Art: Beyond monetary value, Generations is a beautiful set. Take time to appreciate the artwork, especially from the Radiant Collection. It’s a nostalgic trip that celebrates two decades of Pokémon.
- Connect with the Community: Share your pulls, ask questions, and learn from other collectors. The Pokémon TCG community is generally welcoming and a great resource.
Common Questions & Misconceptions About Generations
Let's clear up some common queries about this unique set.
Q: Is Generations still legal for competitive play?
A: No. Generations cards are part of the "Legacy" format in the Pokémon TCG Online but are no longer legal for standard competitive play in the physical game. The set's primary appeal today is for collectors.
Q: Why are Generations packs so expensive compared to other old sets?
A: The main reason is its unique distribution model. Generations packs were never sold in traditional booster boxes, meaning they were always bundled in higher-priced collection products. This inherently limited the supply of individual packs, making them much rarer and more valuable on the secondary market once out of print. The popularity of the Radiant Collection and iconic Pokémon also drives demand.
Q: Can I still pull a Charizard from a Generations pack?
A: Yes! The regular Charizard (11/83) and the Full Art Mega Charizard EX (12/83) are both part of the main Generations set and can be pulled from any Generations booster pack.
Q: Are the figures from the Red & Blue Collection Boxes valuable?
A: While not as valuable as the cards, the sealed figures from these collection boxes do hold some collector value, especially if they are in mint condition or still sealed within their original packaging. They are a nice bonus for fans of the Kanto starters.
Q: What’s the difference between Generations and Evolutions?
A: Both sets are nostalgic, but Generations (2016) celebrated the 20th anniversary with a mix of original and new art, focusing on Pokémon up to Generation VI and featuring the Radiant Collection. Evolutions (late 2016) was a direct reprint set, re-releasing the original Base Set cards with updated game mechanics and a slight visual refresh, alongside some new Mega Evolution cards. They are distinct sets with different card lists and purposes.
Your Next Steps in the World of Generations
Collecting Pokémon Generations is a journey into one of the TCG's most memorable and unique sets. Whether you're chasing that elusive Full Art Gardevoir EX, completing the entire Radiant Collection, or simply want to own a piece of Pokémon history, the adventure is rich with discovery.
Start by researching the cards you're most interested in, familiarize yourself with current market values using reliable sources like TCGPlayer, and always prioritize buying from reputable sellers. The charm of Generations lies not just in its beautiful cards, but in the story it tells—a celebration of Pokémon's enduring legacy. Happy hunting, trainer!