Pokemon card collecting has evolved into a thrilling adventure, where enthusiasts chase after rare gems that can be worth thousands of dollars. Whether you're a casual fan or a seasoned collector, winning rare Pokemon cards is no easy feat. But with the right strategies and tips, you can increase your chances of landing those coveted collectibles. In this article, we'll break down how to win rare Pokemon cards, including some insights into the rarest cards available on EmpireDrop, such as the Mario Pikachu 2016 TCG Japanese (PSA 10) and Charizard-Holo 1996 TCG Japanese (PSA 10).
1. Know Your Target Cards
Before diving into any Pokemon card acquisition strategy, it’s essential to know which cards you're chasing. Rare cards aren’t just valuable; they often hold sentimental and historical significance. Here are some of the rarest Pokemon cards available on EmpireDrop:
- Mario Pikachu 2016 TCG Japanese (PSA 10) – A crossover sensation, this card combines Mario and Pikachu, two icons of Japanese pop culture. It’s not only highly collectible but also incredibly rare.
- Charizard-Holo 1996 TCG Japanese (PSA 10) – A holy grail for any Pokemon collector, this original Charizard card from 1996 is a must-have.
- Mimikyu 2018 TCG (PSA 10) – With its unique design and cult following, Mimikyu cards in mint condition (PSA 10) are rare and sought after.
- Pikachu 2018 TCG (PSA 10) – Pikachu remains an iconic mascot of the Pokemon franchise, making any rare version of its card a top collector’s item.
- Charizard GX 2017 TCG (PSA 10) – Featuring Charizard in its powerful GX form, this card appeals to fans of both the competitive and collectible card game.
- Kadabra 1999 TCG (PSA 10) – Kadabra’s rarity lies in its history, as its card was discontinued for many years, making mint condition copies highly desirable.
Knowing these top cards will help you focus your efforts on acquiring the ones that matter most.
2. Participate in Online Mystery Box Platforms
One of the most exciting ways to win rare Pokemon cards is through online mystery box platforms like EmpireDrop. On these platforms, users can purchase boxes with random items inside, ranging from common collectibles to ultra-rare cards like the Charizard-Holo 1996 TCG Japanese. Here’s how to increase your chances:
- Research the Odds: Every box on EmpireDrop lists the potential items inside, along with their drop rates. Cards like the Mario Pikachu 2016 may be in boxes marked as “Legendary” or “Golden” tier, indicating a low but possible chance of winning.
- Use Filters: EmpireDrop allows you to filter boxes by price, category, and rarity level. Focus on boxes that have a higher chance of yielding rare cards, even if they come at a higher price point.
- Check Recent Wins: The Live Drop and Top Drop features on EmpireDrop show you what other users are unboxing in real-time, helping you gauge which boxes might be hot at any given moment.

3. Create or Join Battles for High-Stakes Wins
Another innovative feature EmpireDrop offers is the ability to join or create battles against other players. These battles involve opening the same mystery boxes simultaneously, with the winner taking all the items unboxed. Here’s why battles are a great way to win rare Pokemon cards:
- High Rewards: By pooling your resources with other players, you increase the total value of items unboxed, including rare Pokemon cards. Winning a battle could land you multiple rare cards at once.
- Multiple Game Modes: EmpireDrop’s battle modes offer different rules, such as Normal Mode where the highest value of unboxed items wins, or Crazy Mode where the player with the lowest value wins.
- Proven Fairness: EmpireDrop uses a Provably Fair system, ensuring every box opening and battle result is random and verifiable.
Check our article about the EmpireDrop's Provably Fair system : https://blog.empiredrop.com/how-empiredrops-provably-fair-system-works/
4. Focus on Rarity and Condition
In the world of Pokemon cards, rarity and condition are everything. Winning rare cards is only half the battle—you need them in pristine condition to truly maximize their value. This is where the PSA grading system comes in.
- PSA 10 Condition: Cards like the Pikachu 2018 TCG (PSA 10) and Charizard GX 2017 TCG (PSA 10) are graded based on their mint condition. PSA 10 is the highest rating, indicating a flawless card. Collectors will pay top dollar for these cards.
- Check for Variants: Some cards have multiple versions, such as holographic, reverse holo, or limited edition prints. On EmpireDrop, you can view the different variants available within a box before purchasing.
5. Leverage Affiliate Programs for Bonuses
EmpireDrop also offers an affiliate program, where you can earn commissions by inviting others to the platform. The more players you bring in, the higher your rank, and the more bonuses you unlock. These bonuses can be used to open more boxes, increasing your chances of winning rare Pokemon cards. Here’s how to make the most of it:
- Share Your Link: Spread your affiliate link through social media or within Pokemon fan communities. This will help you build a network of referrals that can generate passive income for you.
- Use Bonus Codes: Don’t forget to use any deposit bonus codes you receive from leveling up your rank. These codes often give you additional funds to spend on boxes without dipping into your own wallet.
6. Utilize Rakeback and Rewards
EmpireDrop rewards active players through its rakeback system. Every time you open a box, a percentage of the money spent is returned to your balance, which you can then use for more box openings. This feature can help you open even more boxes without constantly re-depositing funds. Additionally, as you level up, you unlock new rewards, including free boxes that may contain rare cards.
7. Stay Patient and Consistent
Winning rare Pokemon cards is not always about luck; sometimes, it’s about persistence. Keep these tips in mind:
- Budget Wisely: Set a budget for how much you’re willing to spend on boxes each week or month. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement, but remember that consistent, calculated efforts yield the best results.
- Track Your Wins: Keep a record of which boxes and battles have been most successful for you. This will help you make smarter choices over time.
- Stay Updated: Keep an eye on EmpireDrop’s updates, as they frequently release new boxes and promotions that may contain rare Pokemon cards.
Conclusion
Winning rare Pokemoncards, especially coveted items like the Mario Pikachu 2016 TCG Japanese (PSA 10) or Charizard-Holo 1996 TCG Japanese (PSA 10), requires a combination of strategy, patience, and a bit of luck. Platforms like EmpireDrop provide an exciting way to chase these rare treasures through mystery boxes, battles, and rewards. By staying informed, leveraging bonuses, and focusing on high-reward boxes, you can significantly increase your chances of adding these rare gems to your collection. Happy hunting!