Pokémon TCG: Ascended Heroes' 10 Most Popular Cards That Fans Are Going Crazy For

IGN

by Ben Williams

February 26, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) Ascended Heroes expansion has introduced a wave of sought-after cards that are capturing the attention of fans. From stunning artwork to powerful gameplay mechanics, certain cards have skyrocketed in popularity—and price—since their release. Platforms like TCGplayer reveal which Ascended Heroes cards are dominating the market, with some fetching nearly $28 or more due to high demand and rare illustrations. Whether for collectors seeking unique art or players looking for strategic advantages, these top 10 cards highlight why they’re becoming must-have additions to any Pokémon TCG collection. One standout is Budew (221/217), an Illustration Rare card that’s both affordable and impactful in gameplay. This Grass-type Pokémon disrupts opponents with its Itchy Pollen attack, which deals damage and prevents Item cards from being used next turn—making it a valuable tool for stalling strategies early in the game. Its charming design by Yoko Hishida also adds to its appeal, blending cuteness with practicality. Mega Dragonite ex (271/217) is another fan favorite, known for its bold, stylized artwork that resembles an anime scene from JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure. Its Mega Attack Rare version offers strategic flexibility with Sky Transport, allowing players to switch between Active and Benched Pokémon once per turn—a feature highly prized in Stage 2 deck strategies. The Special Illustration Rare variant of the same card has also gained traction for its whimsical design and higher market value. Boss’s Orders [Corbeau] (256/217) showcases the power of Corbeau, a fan-favorite character from Pokémon Legends: Z-A. This Ultra Rare card lets players take control of an opponent’s bench Pokémon, disrupting their strategy and shifting the game in your favor. Nagismo’s artwork captures Corbeau’s confident pose and intimidating aura, making it both visually striking and meta-competitive. Lillie’s Clefairy ex (280/217) tops the charts for its unique blend of charm and utility. Its Fairy Zone ability changes Dragon-type Pokémon to Psychic Weakness,

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Originally published on IGN on 2/26/2026