Complete Guide to the Wizard Block: All Pokemon Sets from 1999 to 2003

Between 1999 and 2003, Wizards of the Coast (WOTC) produced and distributed the very first Pokemon Trading Card Game expansions outside of Japan. This period, known among collectors as the Wizard block, represents the absolute golden age of Pokemon cards. It was during these four years that millions of children discovered the game on playgrounds, opened their first booster packs and built collections that, more than 25 years later, are worth a fortune.

Why does the Wizard block fascinate collectors so much? First, because it corresponds to the birth of the Pokemon phenomenon in the West. Second, because the print runs of that era, particularly for French editions, were far more limited than those of modern expansions. And finally, because the artistic quality and charm of the original illustrations have never been matched. Wizard-era cards radiate a powerful nostalgia that goes beyond mere collecting: they are a piece of cultural history.

In this comprehensive guide, we review every expansion from the Wizard block, from the original Base Set to Neo Destiny, detailing each set's history, key cards and current market value. Whether you are a collector seeking completeness, an investor looking for safe bets or a nostalgic fan wanting to relive childhood memories, this guide is for you. To discover the most sought-after French vintage cards, also check out our Top 10 Rarest French Cards.

Base Set (1999) -- Where it all began

The Base Set market remains the most dynamic of the entire Wizard block. Demand shows no sign of weakening, driven by an entire generation's nostalgia and growing investor interest. Unlimited editions, while less valued than 1st Editions, are also seeing constant price increases, especially in high PSA grades. For a detailed analysis of price trends, see our article on the evolution of Charizard prices.

Jungle (1999) -- The first expansion

Jungle is often considered the ideal entry point for collecting the Wizard block. Prices remain accessible compared to the Base Set, but the trend is clearly upward. 1st Edition specimens in high grade are becoming increasingly difficult to find, and savvy collectors are starting to take a serious interest.

Fossil (1999) -- The prehistoric Pokemon

The Fossil expansion is one of the most underrated sets in the Wizard block. Its French 1st Edition cards are relatively rare, and the Legendary Birds in holographic form enjoy consistent popularity among collectors. It is a set that many experts consider undervalued relative to its potential.

Base Set 2 (2000) -- The reprint

Base Set 2 deserves a place in any complete Wizard collection. Its holographics use the same illustrations as the originals, and the rarity of French copies in high grade makes it a potentially interesting investment for those anticipating a revaluation of the set in the years to come.

Team Rocket (2000) -- The dark side of Pokemon

Team Rocket is a set that has always had a special place among collectors, and the trend is only intensifying. Dark Pokemon represent a unique concept that has never been reproduced identically in modern expansions. The rarity of French 1st Edition copies in high grade, combined with the set's thematic appeal, makes it a solid investment.

Gym Heroes and Gym Challenge (2000) -- The gyms take center stage

The Gym Heroes and Gym Challenge sets are among the largest in the Wizard block at 132 cards each, making their completion a real challenge. The French 1st Edition versions are particularly rare because these sets were released at a time when the initial Pokemon craze was beginning to fade, resulting in smaller print runs. It is precisely this rarity that makes them highly coveted pieces today.

Neo Genesis (2000) -- The dawn of the second generation

Neo Genesis is a set whose value continues to climb. The French 1st Edition Lugia has become a benchmark investment, often compared to the Base Set Charizard for its appreciation potential. French print runs of Neo Genesis were already reduced compared to earlier sets, making 1st Edition copies in high grade exceptionally rare.

Neo Discovery (2001) -- New discoveries

Neo Discovery suffers from a lack of recognition compared to Neo Genesis or Neo Destiny, but that is precisely what makes it an opportunity. French print runs were even lower than those of Neo Genesis, and collectors are beginning to realize that quality 1st Edition copies are extremely rare. The holographic Tyranitar, in particular, is seeing remarkable appreciation.

Neo Revelation (2001) -- The arrival of the Shining Pokemon

Neo Revelation is a set that was long undervalued but is now experiencing an explosion in popularity. Shining Pokemon represent the pinnacle of Wizard-era collecting: their extreme rarity (a pull rate of approximately 1 in 72 booster packs), their visual beauty and their unique concept make them exceptional collector's pieces. French versions are even rarer since the market was already contracting at that time.

Neo Destiny (2002) -- Wizard's swan song

Neo Destiny is arguably the most prestigious set in the Wizard block for advanced collectors. The combination of Shining, Dark and Light Pokemon in the same set creates a fascinating diversity. The extremely limited French print runs -- many stores had already run out of Pokemon stock by then -- make it one of the hardest sets to complete in French. It is a set that experts recommend investing in, as its rarity will only increase over time. To learn more about investing, see our guide on Investing in Pokemon cards in 2026.

Other notable Wizard-era sets

Legendary Collection (2002)

The Legendary Collection is a special 110-card set released only in English. It is a compilation of the best cards from the early sets (Base Set, Jungle, Fossil, Team Rocket) with new illustrations for some cards. The standout feature of this set lies in its "Reverse Holo" cards with a fireworks pattern, which are extremely sought-after today. Having never been released in French, the Legendary Collection does not directly concern French-speaking collectors, but it remains an important Wizard-era set.

Southern Islands (2001)

The Southern Islands gift set is a promotional 18-card set with limited distribution. These cards stand out for their panoramic illustrations that form a tropical landscape when lined up. It is a niche set, very popular among thematic collectors. Complete copies with the original binder are rare and sought after.

Wizard Promos / Black Star Promos

Throughout the Wizard era, numbered promotional cards were distributed through events, movies, magazines and special box sets. There are 53 Wizard Black Star Promos, some of which have become very rare. The Pikachu promo from the Pokemon movie (number 1), the Mewtwo promo and the Mew promo are among the most sought-after. These cards are recognizable by their black star "Promo" logo.

Collection strategy: how to approach the Wizard block

Collecting the complete Wizard block is an ambitious goal that requires patience, budget and strategy. Here are our tips for approaching this quest intelligently.

Undervalued sets to watch

Among all the Wizard block sets, some offer above-average appreciation potential. Neo Discovery and Gym Heroes are two expansions that many experts consider undervalued. Their French print runs were low, demand is rising and prices have not yet caught up with those of more famous sets. The 1st Edition holographics from these sets could see significant increases in the coming years.

The hardest sets to complete

Neo Destiny is, by far, the hardest set to complete in French. The extremely limited print runs, combined with the presence of 8 Shining Pokemon, make the quest for completeness virtually impossible without a substantial budget. Gym Challenge in 1st Edition is also very difficult, as is Neo Revelation. For the older sets, the 1st Edition Base Set in French is a formidable challenge due to the astronomical prices of holographics.

Practical tips for collectors

• Start with commons and uncommons: They are still affordable and form the foundation of any complete collection. Prices rise steadily, so don't wait too long.
• Prioritize quality: A card in excellent condition (PSA 7+) will always be worth more than a damaged card. If you're buying as an investment, aim for the best possible condition.
• Verify authenticity: Counterfeits are becoming increasingly sophisticated, especially for high-value cards. Buy from trusted sellers and don't hesitate to have your acquisitions certified.
• Document your collection: Use a spreadsheet or tracking app to know exactly where you stand. This will help you avoid duplicates and identify gaps.
• Be patient: Good deals come to those who wait. Monitor auctions, collector groups and flea markets. Some exceptional finds happen when you least expect them.

Investing wisely in the Wizard block

For investors, the Wizard block offers exceptional opportunities, but you need to know where to look. 1st Edition holographics from the major sets (Base Set, Neo Genesis, Neo Destiny) are safe bets, but their prices are already high. The most interesting opportunities are often found in the intermediate sets: 1st Edition holographics from Fossil, Team Rocket and Gym Challenge offer excellent value with strong upside potential.

Unlimited editions in PSA 10 also represent an interesting strategy. Cheaper than 1st Editions, they are nonetheless rare in perfect condition and benefit from the same nostalgia. An Unlimited Base Set Charizard in PSA 10 remains a top investment choice, much more accessible than a 1st Edition copy.

Conclusion: the legacy of the Wizard block

The Wizard block remains, more than twenty years on, the absolute pinnacle of Pokemon card collecting. These expansions, produced between 1999 and 2003, defined the identity of the Pokemon TCG and created a collecting universe of incomparable richness. From the foundational Base Set to Neo Destiny's last breath, each set tells a chapter of the Pokemon story and carries within it a piece of an entire generation's nostalgia.

For collectors, the Wizard block represents an exciting challenge and a potentially very profitable investment. French print runs, more limited than English or Japanese editions, give French copies a particular rarity that only intensifies over time. Cards are becoming less and less available on the market, high grades are harder to obtain and demand continues to grow.

Whether you want to rebuild your childhood collection, invest in alternative assets or simply treat yourself to a piece of history, the Wizard block has something to offer everyone. The key is to stay well-informed, prioritize quality and take pleasure in the quest -- because it is often the treasure hunt that makes collecting as captivating as the cards themselves.

To continue your exploration of the world of vintage Pokemon cards, discover our Top 10 Rarest French Cards and our guide on Investing in Pokemon cards in 2026.