Updated on October 6, 2026.
Pikachu in crystal attire, Latias and Latios as an illustrative pair, and Dragon-type Pokémon with unique expressions. Surging Sparks gives you several ways to build a collection: focus on a favorite, collect a matching pair, or discover the illustrations by opening packs.
Here we take a closer look at the cards that define the set and help you choose between booster packs, a booster box, and an Elite Trainer Box. If you want to get started with the range, you can find all of our Surging Sparks products here.
What is Surging Sparks?
Surging Sparks is an expansion in the Pokémon TCG Scarlet & Violet series, released in English on November 8, 2024. Stellar Tera Pokémon ex are part of the theme, with Pikachu as a clear main figure and, among others, Hydreigon and Alolan Exeggutor in the card list.
The set features 191 cards in the base numbering and 252 numbered cards in total when including the extra rarities. Therefore, a card can have the number 238/191: it belongs to the same expansion but falls after the base list. The number of numbered cards is not the same as the number of cards you need if you are also collecting different holo variants.
Pikachu ex: a favorite in a new form
For those who collect Pikachu, it is natural to start with Pikachu ex 238/191, a Special Illustration Rare. The Stellar Tera theme allows a familiar Pokémon to have a different visual expression, and it is precisely this combination of recognition and a unique illustration that makes the card interesting as a collection goal.
However, "Pikachu ex from Surging Sparks" is not a precise enough description when buying or valuing the card. The set contains several versions. Note down 238/191 if this is the variant you want, and always compare the correct language and condition.
See Pikachu ex 238/191 in the Pokémon card database. For price assessment, you can use our guide on how to value Pokémon cards.
Latias and Latios: a collection goal with two cards
It is easy to get stuck on a single card, but Surging Sparks also has a pair that becomes extra interesting together: Latias ex 239/191 and Latios 203/191. The illustrations belong together and can be collected as a pair.
Here is a concrete alternative to trying to collect the entire set. You can create a wishlist with two cards and give them space next to each other in your binder. It becomes a contained collecting project where the motifs, rather than just the rarity, drive what you are looking for.
Latias ex is a Special Illustration Rare, while Latios is an Illustration Rare. Cards that belong together visually do not necessarily need to have the same rarity designation.
See Latias ex 239/191 and Latios 203/191 in the official card database.
More cards to discover beyond Pikachu
If you choose a set based on favorite Pokémon, there are more entry points than Pikachu and the legendary pair. These three cards are also Special Illustration Rares:
- Hydreigon ex 240/191: a clear collection goal if you like Hydreigon and want to collect its various card versions.
- Archaludon ex 241/191: an alternative for those who want to give a newer Pokémon space in the collection.
- Alolan Exeggutor ex 242/191: for those who appreciate the Alolan form and want to build a collection around a Pokémon with an entirely different look than Pikachu.
Feel free to start by browsing the card list and picking a few motifs you actually want to keep. A personal wishlist makes pack openings and supplementary purchases more meaningful than just hunting for the card that happens to have the highest price.
Booster pack, booster box, or ETB: what suits you?
Booster packs when you want to try the set
A Surging Sparks booster pack is suitable when you want to do some pack openings on a smaller budget. You do not need to buy an entire box to start discovering the expansion.
If you want to open a few packs together, you can also compare the Surging Sparks 3-pack blister. Check the product's contents and variant before you choose.
Booster box when you want to open more from the same set
A standard English Surging Sparks booster box contains 36 booster packs. It is suitable if you have already decided on the expansion and want to do more openings.
Compare the price per pack: divide the product price by the number of packs. A larger product is not automatically the cheapest option at every purchase.
Elite Trainer Box when you also want accessories
A Surging Sparks Elite Trainer Box combines booster packs with accessories. It may be suitable if you want more than just the openings, but value the contents based on what you will use. Check the exact contents for the edition you choose.
If you want a specific card: singles are a more direct way to reach the goal. More packs give more openings, but none of the products above guarantee Pikachu ex 238/191 or any other specific card.
Compare Surging Sparks products at Hobbykort.
Build a collection you want to continue
Feel free to choose a limited goal: Pikachu variants, Latias and Latios as a pair, or a few favorite illustrations. If you want to collect the entire expansion, you need a checklist and a way to distinguish new cards from duplicates.
Place cards in sleeves and organize them in a card binder. For cards you handle separately, a sleeve and a suitable toploader can provide sturdier protection. Our guide to card protection helps you choose the right combination.
If you collect sealed boxes or ETBs, you can compare acrylic boxes and plastic display cases. Check the format and internal dimensions in the product description.
Do you want to use the cards in a deck?
Then the next question is what the card does in the game. A specific illustration can be a collection goal, but you do not need the most exclusive variant to appreciate the card's function. Check the card text and which cards are allowed in the format you play.
If you are just starting to play, we have a Pokémon TCG guide for beginners. If collecting is your focus, the beginner's guide to collecting Pokémon cards will help you choose an approach.
Sources and card list
Facts about the expansion can be verified in Pokémon's presentation of Surging Sparks and the English card list in Pokémon TCG Data. Latias and Latios were presented together in PokeBeach's reporting on the illustrations. The selection of cards in this article is inspiration for collectors, not a current price ranking.
Frequently asked questions about Surging Sparks
When was Surging Sparks released?
The English expansion was released on November 8, 2024, and is part of the Scarlet & Violet series.
Which Pikachu ex version does the article describe?
The Special Illustration Rare with card number 238/191. Check the number, as other Pikachu ex versions also exist.
How many packs are in a booster box?
A standard English Surging Sparks booster box contains 36 booster packs.
Is Surging Sparks a good set to start with?
It may be suitable if you like the Pokémon and the illustrations in the set. Start with the card list, choose a collection goal, and adjust the purchase to your budget.
Where can I find the price of the cards?
Identify the exact version and condition, then compare completed sales. Use our valuation guide for the method.