15+ most expensive Pokemon Heat Wave Arena card list

The Heat Wave Arena card list is one of the most talked-about topics among Pokémon collectors today, especially for fans who love exploring the latest Japanese releases. Packed with stunning artwork, rare pulls, and competitive favorites, this set has captured global attention for both casual fans and serious investors. In this guide, we’ll break down the most expensive and valuable cards you should know about, from Cynthia’s Garchomp ex to Misty’s beloved classics.

If you’re passionate about Japanese Pokémon cards and want to discover more unique collectibles, don’t miss out on the full insights we’ve put together here at Japan Figure, your trusted source for authentic figures and trading cards straight from Japan.

1. Overview about Japanese Pokemon Heat Wave Arena set

The Heat Wave Arena card list (Japanese name: 熱風のアリーナ, set code SV9a) is one of the most exciting releases in the Scarlet & Violet era of the Pokémon Trading Card Game. Launched on March 14, 2024 in Japan, this expansion immediately caught the attention of collectors worldwide thanks to its stunning artwork, rare pulls, and strong character lineup.

>>> Buy Pokemon TCG Scarlet Violet Heat Wave Arena SV9A Sealed now

The set includes a total of 92 cards: 63 main set cards and 29 secret rares. This structure ensures plenty of variety for both casual fans and serious collectors. Booster boxes contain 30 packs, with each booster pack holding 5 cards, making it a compact yet high-stakes opening experience.

While this expansion was first released in Japan, it will also see adapted versions in Traditional Chinese and Korean markets. However, collectors should note that numbering for certain Trainer cards may differ slightly in the Korean edition.

If you’re following the Scarlet & Violet series closely, you might also be interested in learning about other releases like the Crimson Haze hits, which introduced several fan-favorite cards before Heat Wave Arena.

• Set Name: Heat Wave Arena (熱風のアリーナ, SV9a)
• Release Date: March 14, 2024 – Japan
• Era: Scarlet & Violet
• Language: Japanese (T-Chinese & Korean versions follow later)
• Total Cards: 92 (63 main cards + 29 secret rares)
• Booster Box: 30 packs per box, 5 cards per pack

This set has already proven to be a collector’s favorite, offering not only powerful gameplay cards but also some of the most visually captivating designs in the Scarlet & Violet era.

2. 15+ Most expensive Pokemon Heat Wave Arena card list

The Heat Wave Arena card list has many stunning pulls, but some stand above the rest in both value and desirability. Below is a breakdown of the most expensive cards from the set, featuring Special Art Rares, Illustration Rares, and Trainer cards that are already making waves in the secondary market.

1. Cynthia's Garchomp ex #87 ~ $169.21 
2. Ethan's Ho-Oh ex #86 ~ $106.50 
3. Ethan's Adventure #89 ~ $34.46 
4. Cynthia's Garchomp ex #91 ~ $23.02 
5. Misty's Psyduck #71 ~ $20.06 
6. Ethan's Ho-oh ex #90 ~ $17.83 
7. Arven's Mabosstiff ex #88 ~ $17.32 
8. Yanmega ex #85 ~ $15.00 
9. Ethan's Typhlosion #70 ~ $13.36 
10. Misty's Lapras #72 ~ $9.98 
11. Levincia #92 ~ $9.71 
12. Cynthia's Garchomp ex #80 ~ $8.43 
13. Ethan's Adventure #84 ~ $7.72 
14. Cynthia's Roserade #65 ~ $7.02 
15. Emcee's Excitement #82 ~ $6.74 

2.1 Cynthia's Garchomp ex #87 ~ $169.21 

Cynthia’s Garchomp ex is the most coveted card in the Japanese Heat Wave Arena expansion. Its Special Art Rare (SAR) illustration showcases an intense battle scene with incredible detail, making it a centerpiece for any serious collector. This card is not only rare but also boosted by Cynthia’s ongoing popularity in the Pokémon franchise.

Because of its demand and low pull rate, it consistently ranks as the chase card of the set, with prices holding steady around $169 or higher.

• Rarity: SAR (Special Art Rare)
• Spec: Full art with battle scene design
• Illustrator: Official Pokémon TCG artist (featured in SAR line)
• Release: March 14, 2024 (Japan, SV9a)
• Pull rate: Extremely low
• Price Range: ~$169+

2.2 Ethan's Ho-Oh ex #86 ~ $106.50 

This card pairs Ethan with the legendary Ho-Oh in a striking Special Art Rare. The artwork captures Ho-Oh’s fiery presence and Ethan’s dynamic energy, making it a true standout of the Heat Wave Arena collection.

Collectors love this card not only for its rarity but also for its nostalgic ties to the Johto region. Pokémon fans familiar with Johto might also appreciate discovering all region Pokémon GO, which highlights region-exclusive creatures from across generations.

• Rarity: SAR
• Spec: Ethan + Ho-Oh full illustration
• Illustrator: Pokémon TCG featured artist
• Release: SV9a – March 14, 2024
• Pull rate: Very low
• Price Range: ~$106–110

2.3 Ethan's Adventure #89 ~ $34.46 

Unlike the Pokémon-focused SAR cards, Ethan’s Adventure is a Special Illustration Rare (SIR) Trainer card that tells a story. The illustration shows Ethan on his journey, making it both narrative-driven and visually unique.

At around $34, it sits in the mid-range price tier of the Heat Wave Arena set but remains highly sought after for fans who collect trainer-themed cards.

• Rarity: SIR (Special Illustration Rare)
• Spec: Full art trainer illustration
• Illustrator: Pokémon TCG official artist
• Release: SV9a – March 14, 2024
• Pull rate: Low
• Price Range: ~$34–35

2.4 Cynthia's Garchomp ex #91 ~ $23.02 

This version of Cynthia’s Garchomp ex is released as an Illustration Rare (IR), offering collectors a more affordable alternative to the SAR chase card. While not as detailed as the full art, it still highlights Garchomp’s power and Cynthia’s iconic presence.

With a market value of around $23, it’s a strong mid-tier card that gives fans of Cynthia a chance to own her signature Pokémon without breaking the bank.

• Rarity: IR (Illustration Rare)
• Spec: Alternate artwork of Garchomp ex
• Illustrator: Pokémon TCG official artist
• Release: SV9a – March 14, 2024
• Pull rate: Moderate
• Price Range: ~$23

2.5 Misty's Psyduck #71 ~ $20.06

Misty’s Psyduck brings a touch of humor and nostalgia to the Heat Wave Arena card list. The Art Rare (AR) design captures Psyduck’s quirky charm, making it a fan-favorite among collectors who grew up with Misty in the anime.

Despite Psyduck not being a top-tier Pokémon in battles, this card’s appeal lies in its personality and Misty’s iconic status. Valued at around $20, it’s a collectible that blends fun and nostalgia.

• Rarity: AR (Art Rare)
• Spec: Misty with Psyduck full artwork
• Illustrator: Pokémon TCG official artist
• Release: SV9a – March 14, 2024
• Pull rate: Medium
• Price Range: ~$20

2.6 Ethan's Ho-oh ex #90 ~ $17.83 

The Illustration Rare version of Ethan’s Ho-Oh ex is a more accessible counterpart to the SAR. While less rare, it still features the legendary bird in an impressive pose, highlighting Ho-Oh’s majestic flames.

Collectors looking for an affordable option compared to the $100+ SAR version often choose this card, which currently trades around $18.

• Rarity: IR (Illustration Rare)
• Spec: Ethan with Ho-Oh alternate artwork
• Illustrator: Pokémon TCG official artist
• Release: SV9a – March 14, 2024
• Pull rate: Higher than SAR
• Price Range: ~$17–18

2.7 Arven's Mabosstiff ex #88 ~ $17.32 

Arven’s Mabosstiff ex features a Special Illustration Rare (SIR) design, showcasing the strong bond between Arven and his trusted Pokémon. The storytelling aspect of this card adds emotional depth, which resonates with fans of Scarlet & Violet’s narrative.

At around $17, it’s moderately priced, but its sentimental appeal makes it one to watch for future collector value.

• Rarity: SIR (Special Illustration Rare)
• Spec: Arven with Mabosstiff full artwork
• Illustrator: Pokémon TCG official artist
• Release: SV9a – March 14, 2024
• Pull rate: Low
• Price Range: ~$17

2.8 Yanmega ex #85 ~ $15.00 

Yanmega ex might not be the most popular Pokémon, but its Special Illustration Rare (SIR) card elevates it with bold, action-packed artwork. The card captures the speed and strength of the dragonfly Pokémon, giving it collector appeal.

With a current value of about $15, it represents a balance between affordability and artistry, especially for fans of less mainstream Pokémon.

• Rarity: SIR (Special Illustration Rare)
• Spec: Yanmega full battle artwork
• Illustrator: Pokémon TCG official artist
• Release: SV9a – March 14, 2024
• Pull rate: Low
• Price Range: ~$15

2.9 Ethan's Typhlosion #70 ~ $13.36 

Ethan’s Typhlosion makes a strong appearance in the Heat Wave Arena card list as an Illustration Rare (IR). The artwork showcases the fiery Johto starter with Ethan, blending nostalgia and dynamic energy. This combination appeals to fans of both classic Pokémon and modern collectors.

With prices averaging around $13, it’s not among the top-tier expensive cards, but it has solid long-term potential thanks to Typhlosion’s enduring popularity.

• Rarity: IR (Illustration Rare)
• Spec: Ethan with Typhlosion full art
• Illustrator: Pokémon TCG official artist
• Release: SV9a – March 14, 2024
• Pull rate: Medium
• Price Range: ~$13

2.10 Misty's Lapras #72 ~ $9.98 

Misty’s Lapras captures a serene and beautiful aquatic scene in this Art Rare (AR) design. Lapras has always been tied to Misty in fan nostalgia, and the card’s gentle atmosphere makes it one of the most visually appealing in the set.

Currently valued just under $10, this card provides great collectible charm at an affordable price, especially for Misty enthusiasts.

• Rarity: AR (Art Rare)
• Spec: Misty with Lapras full artwork
• Illustrator: Pokémon TCG official artist
• Release: SV9a – March 14, 2024
• Pull rate: Medium
• Price Range: ~$9–10

2.11 Levincia #92 ~ $9.71 

Levincia brings a unique twist to the Heat Wave Arena expansion as a Trainer/Location card. The vibrant illustration captures the lively atmosphere of the in-game location, offering a collectible that stands out from the usual Pokémon-focused artworks.

Priced around $9–10, it’s one of the lower-valued rare cards but appreciated by fans of world-building elements within the TCG.

• Rarity: IR (Illustration Rare)
• Spec: Full art Trainer/Location card
• Illustrator: Pokémon TCG official artist
• Release: SV9a – March 14, 2024
• Pull rate: Medium
• Price Range: ~$9–10

2.12 Cynthia's Garchomp ex #80 ~ $8.43 

This Super Rare (SR) version of Cynthia’s Garchomp ex offers collectors a simpler, more widely available alternative to the premium SAR and IR versions. While not the most expensive, it still carries appeal due to Cynthia’s popularity and Garchomp’s competitive reputation.

At around $8, it’s an entry-level option for collectors who want a piece of Cynthia’s Heat Wave Arena lineup without spending big.

• Rarity: SR (Super Rare)
• Spec: Alternate artwork of Garchomp ex
• Illustrator: Pokémon TCG official artist
• Release: SV9a – March 14, 2024
• Pull rate: Higher than SAR
• Price Range: ~$8–9

2.13 Ethan's Adventure #84 ~ $7.72 

Ethan’s Adventure is a Trainer/Supporter card that highlights the spirit of exploration in Johto. The illustration shows Ethan on a journey, giving the card a nostalgic and adventurous feel. While it doesn’t hold the same value as his Ho-Oh or Typhlosion cards, it’s a charming collectible for Ethan fans.

At around $7–8, this card is affordable and adds personality to any Heat Wave Arena set.

• Rarity: IR (Illustration Rare)
• Spec: Ethan Trainer full art card
• Illustrator: Pokémon TCG official artist
• Release: SV9a – March 14, 2024
• Pull rate: Medium
• Price Range: ~$7–8

2.14 Cynthia's Roserade #65 ~ $7.02 

Cynthia’s Roserade is a Rare Holo card that blends elegance and strength, much like the Champion herself. While Roserade doesn’t hold the same popularity as Garchomp, its sleek design and Cynthia’s association give it a unique collectible edge.

With values just above $7, it’s a lower-cost option for those who want to complete Cynthia’s Heat Wave Arena lineup without chasing the pricier cards.

• Rarity: R (Rare Holo)
• Spec: Cynthia’s Roserade artwork
• Illustrator: Pokémon TCG official artist
• Release: SV9a – March 14, 2024
• Pull rate: High
• Price Range: ~$7

2.15 Emcee's Excitement #82 ~ $6.74 

Emcee’s Excitement closes out the list as one of the more affordable Heat Wave Arena hits. This Trainer/Supporter card captures the hype and energy of a live Pokémon battle setting. It’s a fun card rather than a highly competitive or collectible one, but it adds flavor to the expansion.

At around $6–7, it’s accessible for collectors who want variety in their Heat Wave Arena card collection.

• Rarity: SR (Super Rare)
• Spec: Trainer full art card
• Illustrator: Pokémon TCG official artist
• Release: SV9a – March 14, 2024
• Pull rate: Medium
• Price Range: ~$6–7

If you enjoy tracking new Japanese Pokémon releases, it’s worth comparing this lineup with the SV5M Pokémon card list, another exciting addition to the Scarlet & Violet block.

3. FAQs - People also asked about Japanese Heat Wave Arena card list

Before diving into the most common questions, it’s worth noting that the Japanese Heat Wave Arena card list has quickly become a hot topic among Pokémon fans worldwide. From collectors curious about card quantities to players seeking the rarest pulls, these FAQs cover everything you need to know about this exciting set.

3.1 How many cards are in the Heat Wave Arena?

The Japanese Heat Wave Arena set (SV9a) includes a total of 92 cards. This breaks down into 63 main set cards and 29 Secret Rares, offering both competitive staples and collectible chase cards.

3.2 Are Heat Wave Arena cards rare?

Yes, the set contains multiple levels of rarity. Heat Wave Arena features 12 Art Rares (AR), 9 Super Rares (SR), 5 Special Art Rares (SAR), and 3 Ultra Rares (UR). These rarities drive collector demand and explain why certain cards are significantly more valuable.

3.3 What is the best card in Heat Wave Arena?

The most sought-after card in this set is the Special Art Rare (SAR) Cynthia’s Garchomp ex. Not only does it feature stunning artwork, but it’s also one of the strongest cards competitively, making it a top-tier pull for both players and collectors.

The Heat Wave Arena card list has proven to be one of the most exciting sets for both collectors and competitive players, blending rare pulls with incredible Japanese artistry. From the highly sought-after Cynthia’s Garchomp ex to nostalgic favorites like Misty’s Psyduck and Lapras, these cards highlight why the set is making waves across the global Pokémon community.