Collector’s Observations: Terastal Gathering (CN)

Chinese Pokemon products have become of great interest to collectors globally. However, there is often some confusion as to what the actual products entail, and which ones to get. Taking the recent Terastal Gathering release as an example, there are some pitfalls to avoid. Time to dig in and see what is what!

Terastal Gathering Has Arrived

It is good to see more Pokemon TCG product releases in different regions of the world. China is a potentially huge market in that regard, and we see an increased product rollout occur accordingly. Terastal Gathering is the newest set to be released in China, and it is very similar to Prismatic Evolutions. However, interested parties need to beware of some core differences. 

At its core, one can rest assured that Terastal Gathering is the Chinese localized version of Prismatic Evolutions. As such, the card list is also eerily similar. Given how Chinese Pokemon TCG products are often cheaper than English, Korean, or Japanese, it is an excellent way to fill missing spots in one’s existing collection. 

Because of this localization, there is a strong set on Eevee and the various Eeveelutions. However, there is also a wide support cast of other Pokemon, as with any other set. Terastal Gathering has a total of 258 cards. That is quite steep, given how a booster box will only come with 10 packs. It would take at least 2.5 booster boxes to master set this collection, although in reality, it will likely take a dozen or more. 

What China Does Differently

Unlike Prismatic Evolution, Terastal Gathering comes with some crucial differences. Up first are the region-specific bonus cards tied to this particular set. Pokemon aficionados will know China often gets exclusive cards not found anywhere else. That trend continues with CSV9.5C, making it quite appealing to Eevee and Eeveelutions fans. 

A second factor to consider is the pull rates. Anyone who ever opened Prismatic Evolutions will know the rates are all over the place. Asian products, especially Japanese and Chinese, are more “generous” on that front. In this instance, every Terastal Gathering booster box – the 10-pack one – has at least 1 guaranteed SIR. Moreover, every non-SIR pack will also have an EX card, with an Ace Spec card seeded in every box as well. Plus, there are also the Art Rare cards to consider. 

Furthermore, there is the “god pack” potential. Although opinions are divided on whether Chinese booster boxes have them, they officially exist in Terastal Gathering booster boxes. Odds are very low, of course, but encountering one is certainly possible. The “god pack” pull rate should be roughly on par with Japan’s Terastal Festival. 

Speaking of the SIR or better slot, Terastal Gathering has a region-exclusive card. The Sylveon ex SAR. This will undoubtedly be a grail for many collectors, although it is not guaranteed in every booster box. Current prices put it above $460, although that value will fluctuate as time progresses. 

Terastal Gathering Booster Box vs Binder Bundle

Anyone looking to pick up Terastal Gathering needs to be a bit careful. Two new products have hit the Chinese market, but they are very different. One is a binder bundle, which comes with a cute binder and 8 booster packs. However, these do NOT guarantee an SIR or better in the box, they are random packs from one or multiple booster boxes. 

If that SIR or Sylveon ex SAR is the objective, buy a Terastal Gathering booster box. It has 10 packs, has the guaranteed SIR or better per box, but is also slightly more expensive. However, you won’t get any of the special accessories or the binder. If budget allows for it, picking up one bundle and one booster box may be a viable approach.