7 best designed cards in Pokemon TCG Surging Sparks expansion

The Pokemon TCG: Scarlet & Violet - Surging Sparks expansion, released on November 8, 2024, is a stunning addition to the Pokemon Trading Card Game. Known for introducing Stellar Tera Pokemon ex cards, this set also embraces the “Terarium” setting, inspired by The Indigo Disk DLC from Pokemon Scarlet and Violet.

Combining Japanese Super Electric Breaker and Paradise Dragona cards, Surging Sparks introduces new ACE SPEC, special illustration rare Pokemon, and hyper-rare gold-etched cards.

This article will look at the seven best-designed cards in Surging Sparks, highlighting their artistic appeal and the powerful presence they bring to the collection.

Note: This article is subjective and solely relies on the writer's opinions.

Best looking cards in Pokemon TCG Surging Sparks expansion

1) Volcarona

Volcarona's card in the Surging Sparks expansion (Image via The Pokemon Company)

The Volcarona card in Surging Sparks is an absolute visual powerhouse. Against a backdrop of raging dark clouds and fierce thunderstorms, Volcarona is depicted mid-battle, with tiny embers flickering in the surrounding air. This artwork captures both the chaos of battle and the beauty of nature.

The dramatic lighting and intricate shadow work give Volcarona a fierce and dynamic presence, drawing you into the intensity of the moment. It’s a mesmerizing portrayal that perfectly balances ferocity and artistic detail.

Also read: 7 most powerful cards in the Pokemon TCG Surging Sparks expansion

2) Koraidon

Koraidon's card in the Surging Sparks expansion (Image via The Pokemon Company)

Koraidon’s card channels raw strength and power, showing the Pokemon charging up an attack with a look of sheer determination. The artist has captured Koraidon’s essence through its intense gaze, conveying a sense of unstoppable force.

The illustration style reinforces Koraidon’s status as a mighty Pokemon, with its expression communicating a no-mercy attitude. This card is more than a simple illustration — it’s a fierce depiction that embodies Koraidon’s personality and raw might.

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3) Castform - Sunny Form (One Star)

Castform's card in the Surging Sparks expansion (Image via The Pokemon Company)

Castform’s card stands out with its unique full-art design, presenting a peaceful and feel-good vibe. Unlike traditional card designs, this one breaks conventions by featuring all three Castform forms — Sunny, Rainy, and Snowy — in one layout.

The warm color palette and soft art style evoke a sense of harmony and tranquility, highlighting Castform’s weather-changing nature. It’s a refreshing card design that radiates positivity and brings something new and joyful to the set.

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4) Latios (One Star)

Latios' card in the Surging Sparks expansion (Image via The Pokemon Company)

This full-art Latios card is a serene masterpiece, capturing a calm moment as Latios gazes out toward a beautiful horizon. The card shows a sunset or sunrise scene over a quiet town and waterbody, which adds depth and context to Latios’s journey.

The small depiction of Latios amidst a larger, carefully detailed landscape tells a story of calm and hope, making it a standout card for its peaceful, almost contemplative feel. It’s a card that feels more like a painting than a traditional Pokemon card.

Also read: Best decks for the Lapras ex event in Pokemon TCG Pocket

5) Ceruledge (One Star)

Ceruledge's card in the Surging Sparks expansion (Image via The Pokemon Company)

Ceruledge’s full-art card brings out the Pokemon’s ghostly aura and fiery power. Standing in a commanding stance, Ceruledge emanates mystery and intensity. The art style, which has a crayon-like texture, adds a layer of depth and eeriness to the card, further emphasizing Ceruledge’s haunting presence.

While the card may not depict any overt action, the popular Pokemon Ceruledge’s intense look, and powerful posture make this design captivating, embodying a sense of mystique that complements the Pokemon’s personality.

Also read: Top 5 Grass-type cards in Pokemon TCG Pocket

6) Milotic ex (Two Stars)

Milotic ex's card in the Surging Sparks expansion (Image via The Pokemon Company)

Milotic ex’s card is a feast for the eyes, thanks to its ingenious composition. The artwork splits the scene between underwater and above-water worlds, showcasing Milotic’s elegance and beauty in vibrant colors. The soft sunlight filtering in from the top right enhances the color scheme, creating a stunning display of light and color.

The card’s design captures Milotic’s essence as a graceful water Pokemon, providing a soothing and immersive viewing experience that draws you into Milotic’s aquatic world.

Also read: Top 5 Psychic-type cards in Pokemon TCG

7) Vivillon (One Star)

Vivillon's card in the Surging Sparks expansion (Image via The Pokemon Company)

Vivillon’s full-art card is a photographic work of art, with the Pokemon delicately perched on a broken tree trunk. The simplicity of Vivillon’s pose, paired with a beautifully blurred background, gives the card a natural, almost dreamy aesthetic.

Vivillon’s vividly colored wings pop against the blurred surroundings, making it feel like a photograph capturing a peaceful moment in nature. The artistic quality of this card is subtle yet impactful, showcasing Vivillon’s beauty in a calm and almost charming way.

Also read: Top 5 Trainer cards in Pokemon TCG Pocket

Surging Sparks brings forward some of the most artistically impressive designs we’ve seen in the Pokemon TCG series.

These seven cards showcase a variety of styles, from fierce battle scenes to serene landscapes, each telling a unique story.

This expansion not only celebrates the power and personality of each Pokemon but also the creative depth that the TCG artists bring to the series, making it a must-have for collectors and players alike.