Pokémon Tapu Fini GX (Sun & Moon: Burning Shadows Singles) — Rare Secret
Nintendo (International), ca. 2017
Rainbow foil, layered paper
8.8 x 6.3 cm
Purchased from Gamestop, 2019
Personal collection
Created by Nintendo, billions of Pokémon cards are produced each year. First introduced in 1996 in Japan as a gameboy prototype, this game expanded globally in following years. This small piece of layered paper and rainbow foil speaks to much more than its materials, representing a collective narrative shared between individuals globally. Today, Pokémon cards are actively used and traded in 74 countries around the world, with several successful franchises, including television and video game series. This particular card entered my personal collection as a birthday gift from my boyfriend, who purchased a Booster Box. A Booster Box contains 36 booster packs, each equipped with a random selection of 6 common cards, 3 uncommon cards and 1 rare card. A Booster Box may also contain a few foil cards, if they are lucky enough.
This specific object signifies the care and value invested in these game pieces by collectors, who often purchasing protective sleeves for certain cards and storing them accordingly. Each Pokémon card has an individual value, based on rarity. This Tapu Fini GX Rainbow Foil card is approximately worth $30. An original Pikachu Illustrator card is worth $100,000, as there are only six in the world! Value is the key factor any Pokémon collector must consider when storing their cards. Damage of any kind, including a small scratch or slight curve in the card can drastically impact the value. For my collection, the foil cards are individually stored in a box in hard, plastic protective covers. The common cards are stored in sleeves in binders and all cards are kept out of direct sunlight. Pokémon have unique pokédex number, which is how they are generally organized in handbooks and online. I have proudly collected over 2500 Pokémon cards, including 30 Ultra Rare cards. Pokémon cards are affordable, and can be collected by anyone!
During trying times, the Pokémon community continues to engage. The Pokémon realm is not restricted to physical means, allowing anybody to connect from different parts of the world, creating a well-rounded sense of community. In a virtual era, Pokémon has presently captivated individuals worldwide. During this pandemic, Pokémon reminds individuals that we are connected, although not physically, through common interests, such as the TCG, creating a common, safe space for individuals to interact. As of April 14, 2020, in various counties Pokémon interaction is taking place online to comply with social distancing measures, engaging those confined to their houses.
Bettina Bozolasco