If one Sword & Shield set has become legendary, it's this one. Evolving Skies released on August 27, 2021 with Pokémon V and VMAX for all eight Eeveelutions, the return of Dragon-type Pokémon and Rayquaza VMAX. Its alt art Umbreon VMAX, nicknamed "Moonbreon," is one of the most famous modern Pokémon cards ever printed. Here's the collector's guide: the dates, the chase cards and what came in every box.
Evolving Skies at a Glance
- Release date: August 27, 2021
- Set code: SWSH07
- Set size: 203 cards plus secret rares
- Headliners: Rayquaza VMAX and the Eeveelution V and VMAX
- Also new: Dragon-type Pokémon return to the Sword & Shield era
Eeveelutions and Dragons
Every Eeveelution, from Vaporeon to Sylveon, got a Pokémon V and many reached VMAX, making this the definitive Eevee set of the era. Dragons came back in force too, led by Rayquaza VMAX, Dragonite V and Duraludon VMAX.
The Chase Cards
Umbreon VMAX alt art. "Moonbreon" is the top card in the set and one of the most valuable cards of the entire Sword & Shield era.
Rayquaza VMAX alt art. A sweeping full-scene illustration of Rayquaza and the second biggest pull in the set.
Eeveelution alt arts. Sylveon VMAX, Glaceon V, Leafeon V and more in alternate art.
Dragonite V alt art. A fan-favorite illustration that's become a chase card on its own.
The Product Lineup
| Product | What's inside |
|---|---|
 Booster Pack
|
10 cards plus a basic Energy, in one of four pack artworks |
 Build and Battle Box
|
4 packs and a 23-card Evolution pack with 1 of 4 promos |
 Build and Battle Stadium
|
2 Build and Battle kits plus extra booster packs, built for two players |
 Elite Trainer Box
|
8 packs, sleeves, Energy cards, dice and a storage box |
| Booster Box | 36 packs |
Our quick picks: The Elite Trainer Box is the classic Evolving Skies collector piece. The Build and Battle Stadium is great for two players who want to open and play, and single packs are there if you just want a shot at Moonbreon.
Tips for Collectors
- Buy sealed from trusted sellers. Evolving Skies is the most counterfeited and resealed set of the era.
- Check sold listings. Sealed and alt art prices move a lot, so check recent eBay sold listings before buying or selling.
- Grade the alt arts. Clean copies of the Umbreon and Rayquaza alt arts carry big premiums when graded.
Keep Collecting With Booster Pack Cards
Browse our Pokémon TCG Elite Trainer Boxes, Build and Battle products and Booster Packs, or shop the full Pokémon TCG collection. Love Eeveelutions? Read our Prismatic Evolutions guide. Next up in the Galar era: the 25th anniversary in our Celebrations collector's guide.
