12 Best Pokémon Manga Volumes That Turn Into Rare Shelf Finds

If you’re a Pokémon fan, the manga series is a must-read that goes beyond the usual game and TV show storylines. Featuring unique story arcs and dynamic characters, the Pokémon manga brings an exciting new layer to the beloved franchise. Some volumes, particularly older editions, have become rare collectibles, sought after by passionate fans. These books give a deeper look into the Pokémon world, filled with thrilling adventures, unique illustrations, and unexpected twists.

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Pokémon Adventures-Red, Green, Blue and Yellow (Volume 1)

Released in 1998, this first volume of the Pokémon Adventures manga introduces readers to the journey of Red, a young Pokémon Trainer who sets out to become the Champion. The story follows Red’s battles with rival trainers and his encounters with the mysterious Team Rocket. This volume is special for its early release and features nostalgic elements of the classic Pokémon games. A well-maintained copy of this book can fetch between $50 to $100. Collectors value it for both its historical significance and its unique depiction of Pokémon battles.

The Pokémon Adventures series is beloved for its engaging storytelling and deep character development, which is different from the lighter tone of the anime. This first volume, with its vibrant art and action-packed plot, set the tone for the series’ success. The original printing of this manga is rare, especially in good condition, making it a sought-after collectible. Fans of the original Pokémon game series often seek this volume to complete their collections.

Pokémon Adventures-Gold and Silver (Volume 1)

First published in 2000, this volume focuses on the new protagonists, Gold and Silver, as they explore the Johto region. With its unique storyline and introduction of new Pokémon like Totodile, Cyndaquil, and Chikorita, this manga offers a fresh take on the Pokémon universe. The estimated value of a well-preserved copy is around $70 to $150. It has become rare over time due to its limited print run, making it a valuable find for collectors.

The manga explores the bond between the new trainers and their Pokémon in a way that the games did not, adding extra depth to the world of Johto. Many fans of the games and anime find the Gold and Silver arc to be one of the most engaging in the Pokémon Adventures series. As a collector’s item, the volume stands out for its rarity, especially with the increasing demand for early Pokémon Adventures prints. Finding this volume in pristine condition is a treat for both Pokémon enthusiasts and manga collectors.

Pokémon Adventures-Diamond and Pearl (Volume 5)

Released in 2011, this fifth volume continues the journey of Diamond, Pearl, and Platinum as they uncover the secrets of the legendary Pokémon of the Sinnoh region. With an estimated market value of $80 to $150, this volume is rare due to its limited print run and increasing demand. Fans of the Diamond and Pearl games appreciate this volume for its exciting battles and emotional depth.

The storyline in this volume is packed with action, as the characters face their greatest challenges yet. The introduction of new Legendary Pokémon like Dialga, Palkia, and Giratina makes this volume even more significant. Collectors seek this edition for both its rarity and its importance in the Pokémon Adventures series. It’s a must-have for any fan of the Sinnoh region and the Diamond and Pearl games.

Pokémon Adventures-Diamond and Pearl (Volume 1)

Released in 2006, Diamond and Pearl introduces the characters Diamond, Pearl, and Platinum as they travel through the Sinnoh region. The manga adapts elements from the games, while adding unique adventures and character growth that isn’t seen in the video games. In good condition, this volume can range from $50 to $100 in value, depending on the edition.

Fans appreciate the Diamond and Pearl manga for its ability to expand on the world of Sinnoh, particularly through its introduction of the battle frontier and the legendary Pokémon Dialga and Palkia. The character of Platinum, who starts as a wealthy, spoiled girl, offers a fun character arc as she becomes more involved with her Pokémon. Collectors look for this volume due to its increasing rarity and the popularity of the Diamond and Pearl games, making it an important item for Pokémon manga enthusiasts.

Pokémon -The Electric Tale of Pikachu (Volume 1)

Originally published in 1998, The Electric Tale of Pikachu offers a more comedic and lighthearted take on the Pokémon universe compared to other manga series. It follows Ash and Pikachu’s adventures with a focus on their bond and the humorous situations they find themselves in. This volume can sell for anywhere between $60 and $150 depending on the condition and edition.

The art style of The Electric Tale of Pikachu is unique, with a more cartoonish feel that contrasts with the detailed style of Pokémon Adventures. Its quirky humor and lively expressions make it a fan favorite among younger audiences, while the nostalgic element appeals to older collectors. The rarity of this volume, especially in good condition, increases its desirability. Fans of the anime series often enjoy this manga for its more lighthearted approach to the Pokémon world.

Pokémon-Black and White (Volume 1)

Released in 2010, the Pokemon-Black and White manga introduces new characters, Black and White, and explores the Unova region. The volume follows Black’s journey to become a Pokémon Trainer and White’s work as a Pokémon trainer and promoter. This volume can range from $50 to $100, especially if it’s from the initial print run or a special edition.

The Black and White arc is well-loved for its fresh characters and exploration of themes like ambition, personal growth, and the bond between humans and Pokémon. With its colorful art and exciting storyline, it stands out as one of the most dynamic arcs in the Pokémon Adventures series. The Unova region is a fan favorite, and as the manga series continues to grow in popularity, this particular volume becomes rarer and more sought-after. Its limited availability has increased demand, making it a valuable addition for collectors.

Pokémon Adventures-HeartGold and SoulSilver (Volume 1)

Released in 2010, this volume follows the adventures of Gold and Silver as they revisit Johto in a new set of challenges. With its focus on character development and detailed Pokémon battles, this volume is a must-have for fans of the HeartGold and SoulSilver games. This volume typically goes for $50 to $120, with older print runs being the most valuable.

The HeartGold and SoulSilver arc has gained popularity due to its deep connection with the iconic games and the introduction of new elements like the special battle areas. Fans of the Johto region appreciate how this manga revisits old favorites while incorporating new twists. With its limited print runs, finding this volume in good condition has made it a rare collectible. Collectors and fans alike treasure this edition for its connection to the beloved Johto region.

Pokémon Adventures-Black 2 and White 2 (Volume 1)

In 2012, this manga volume was released to accompany the Black 2 and White 2 games. The storyline follows Black and White as they continue their journey in the Unova region, facing new challenges. With prices ranging from $60 to $150, this volume has become rare due to the limited release and growing fan interest in the Unova arc.

This volume is notable for its direct continuation of the events in Black and White, exploring deeper character relationships and battle tactics. The inclusion of the legendary Pokémon and the challenges faced by Black and White adds complexity to the story, making it a favorite among collectors. The scarcity of this volume has made it an important find for fans of the series. With its engaging plot and connection to the games, it remains a sought-after edition in the Pokémon Adventures collection.

Pokémon Adventures-Sun and Moon (Volume 1)

Released in 2017, the Pokémon Adventures– Sun and Moon manga introduces the characters Sun and Moon as they navigate the Alola region. The manga brings the sun-and-moon mythology to life with a thrilling adventure involving new Pokémon and unique storylines. This volume can fetch between $50 to $90, depending on the condition and rarity of the print.

With its unique setting and focus on regional challenges, Sun and Moon provides fans with a fresh take on the Pokémon universe. The introduction of the Ultra Recon Squad and the Tapu guardians adds layers of depth to the story. Fans of the Sun and Moon games enjoy this manga for its ties to the game world and its detailed artwork. Its increasing popularity has turned this volume into a valuable find for collectors.

Pokémon Adventures-X and Y (Volume 1)

First published in 2014, the Pokémon Adventures-X and Y manga follows the adventures of X and Y, two trainers from the Kalos region. The volume focuses on their friendship, battles, and the new challenges they face. Market value typically sits between $50 and $110, with some special editions fetching higher prices.

The X and Y arc offers an exciting take on the Kalos region, introducing new Pokémon and exploring themes of trust, teamwork, and rivalry. The manga’s detailed art style and rich storytelling set it apart from other arcs. As one of the more recent entries in the Pokémon Adventures series, this volume has become increasingly popular and harder to find. Fans of the X and Y games and anime often seek out this manga to complete their collection.

Pokémon Mystery Dungeon-Ginji’s Rescue Team

Released in 2007, this third volume follows Ginji and his Pokémon companions as they navigate the Pokémon world and save others from danger. This volume has become rare and valuable, with an estimated market value of $60 to $150. Fans of the Pokémon Mystery Dungeon games love this volume for its adventure-packed narrative.

The Ginji’s Rescue Team arc is unique because it shifts the focus from the human characters to the Pokémon, giving them more agency and personality. The manga’s deep emotional moments and intense storytelling make it a favorite among fans of the games. Collectors find this volume rare due to its limited print and growing demand. It’s especially valuable for those who appreciate the Mystery Dungeon games and the unique take on the Pokémon world.

Pokémon Adventures-Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire (Volume 1)

Released in 2015, this volume follows the adventures of Ruby and Sapphire in the Hoenn region, based on the Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire video games. It brings exciting new battles, characters, and legendary Pokémon to life. Prices typically range from $50 to $120, with early prints being especially rare.

This arc is a fan favorite due to its rich character development and connection to the beloved Hoenn region. Ruby and Sapphire’s journey highlights their growth as trainers and their bonds with their Pokémon. With its limited release, finding this volume in great condition makes it a sought-after item for collectors. Fans of the Hoenn games and anime often look for this volume to add to their collection.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.