Darkrai VSTAR (ダークライ VSTAR)

Market outlook

Rising Outlook 6/10

25.7% increase in last 30 days and 53.9% longer-term gain driven by Legendary VSTAR hype[1]

Next months. Continued modest gains next 3-6 months with stable NM pricing $25-40

Long term. Stable to rising over 1-3 years if VSTAR reprints are minimal, potential for graded 10 appreciation

History

Darkrai is a Legendary Dark-type Pokémon from Generation IV, known as the 'Pitch-Black Pokémon' that induces nightmares and endless sleep using its ability Bad Dreams. It originates from Newmoon Island and is infamous for terrorizing the world with its nightmare-inducing powers, featured prominently in Pokémon Mystery Dungeon and the movie The Rise of Darkrai.

First released in the Japanese VSTAR Universe set on December 2, 2022[2][1]

• This Special Art Rare features unique artwork by an artist associated with the VSTAR Universe subset[1][4]
• Darkrai VSTAR card design first appeared in earlier sets like Astral Radiance and Darkrai VSTAR Starter Set before this SAR printing[3]
• VSTAR mechanic allows a powerful once-per-game ability: put up to 2 Item cards from discard into hand[3]

Rarity and print run

Tier

Secret Rare

Print run

Medium

First printed in

VSTAR Universe (S12a)

Demand

Medium

Supply

Medium

• Special Art Rare pull rate in Japanese sets (1 in 100+ packs)
• Japanese-exclusive variant not reprinted widely
• High collector appeal due to Darkrai popularity

Collector notes

Condition. Check for edge whitening, surface scratches on the expansive dark artwork, centering issues common in Japanese foils, print lines on holo pattern, and corner dings; common flaws include fingerprint oils on glossy SAR surface and minor whitening from sleeves.

Storage. Use high-quality semi-rigid holders or Dragon Shield sleeves with top loaders; store in cool, dry environment away from sunlight to prevent holo oxidation; avoid stacking without dividers.

Authenticity. Verify kanji text alignment, holo pattern consistency (star bursts should be crisp), font matching official scans; check for thin card stock or blurry attacks in fakes; use UV light for foil authenticity; cross-reference with graded population reports[5][6]