In the world of Pokemon Trading Card Game collectors, Charizard Base Set is a crown jewel. Its iconic art and rarity make it one of the most sought-after cards, with high-quality versions worth thousands of dollars. But a creative Pokémon fan took a decidedly unconventional approach to his Charizard, turning him into a skateboard decoration– a move that left many collectors amazed, shocked and perhaps even a little pained.
The user's Reddit post bepicewis captured the striking and unconventional use of card. The image shows a Charizard Base Set, carefully assembled under clear tape on a skateboard deck, glowing with its iconic fire design. The combination of the card's holographic glow and the skateboard's functional design created an instant conversation startercombining two distinct passions into one bold statement.
Charizard base set is an expensive skateboard decoration
Even in 2018, this was an expensive decoration
In 2018, using a Charizard for skateboarding was a bold decision for a high school Pokémon TCG fan to showcase your collection in a unique way. The combination of Charizard's iconic fiery design and the board's functionality creates a stunning look. However, the decision to use such a valuable card may cause collectors some pain and feelings like “this is sick“from Reddit user Bens Light they are joined by many who recognize that it is cool, but still mourn the loss.
At the time the skateboard was created, the Base Set Charizard was already valuable, even with damaged or reproduced copies fetching significant prices. Today, with the Pokémon TCG experiencing a massive resurgence in popularity, that same card could be worth exponentially more. For collectors, seeing such a rare jewel used as decoration – and screwed down – is like seeing someone painting a Picasso.
Our take: A cool concept that doesn't have to be expensive
Pokémon TCG fans suggest cheaper ways to create the same aesthetic
While the idea of incorporating trading cards into a skateboard's design is undeniably creative, using a base set Charizard as a centerpiece raises eyebrows for obvious reasons. Fortunately, this isn't the only way to achieve the aesthetic. As some Reddit users like it nottredditpressed pointed out, a cheaper card or even a high-quality photocopy could achieve a similar effect without risking a valuable collectible.
This concept creatively merges the worlds of Pokemon and skateboarding. Using clear tape to display art or memorabilia on a deck has been a trend among skateboarders for years. Trading cards — with their vibrant designs and nostalgia factor — fit right into this culture. However, there is no need to sacrifice a Holy Grail card when alternatives exist. Modern reprints or less valuable holographic cards could serve as great substitutes.
PokemonThe Celebrations set, released in 2021, includes reimagined versions of classic cards like the Charizard Base Set, making it a cost-effective replacement. A replica or print would also work well under masking tape, offering a nearly identical appearance without any financial loss. At its core, this mashup of Pokemon and skate culture represents personal expression. Whether you're willing to sacrifice a valuable collectible for style is a matter of individual choice. For most fans of Pokémon, the trading card gamehowever, it's probably better to keep your Charizard safe in a protective case than under your feet on a hoverboard.
Source: bepicewis/Reddit, BensLight/Reddit, nottredditprimido/Reddit
- Platform(s)
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Game Boy color
- Released
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April 10, 2000