Pokémon TCG: HS—Triumphant, released in November 2010, closed out the HeartGold & SoulSilver block with one of the most collectible and competitive lineups of the era. The set showcased an impressive mix of Prime cards, unique Legendary pairs, and the mysterious Alph Lithograph insert that became a true chase card. For players, it introduced powerful deck staples and combos that shaped the late HS metagame.
For collectors, Triumphant offered standout artwork, rare mechanics, and a strong pool of fan-favorite Pokémon. Today, cards from this expansion remain among the most desirable of the HGSS era, balancing nostalgia with long-term value. Here are the 10 best cards from HS—Triumphant.
10. Yanmega (Prime) #98
Yanmega Prime was a breakout card in competitive play thanks to its free attack options under specific conditions. Its “Insight” Poké-Body matched an opponent’s hand size, unlocking zero-cost attacks like “Linear Attack” and “Sonicboom.” This efficiency made it the centerpiece of speedy, disruptive decks such as Yanmega/Magnezone. Collectors still appreciate its dynamic role in the metagame and its sharp Prime artwork.
9. Magnezone (Prime) #96
Magnezone Prime offered a rare blend of offense and consistency. Its “Lost Burn” attack let players banish Energy to deliver massive damage, while “Magnetic Draw” kept hands full and plays flowing. This combination made it one of the most reliable engines in tournament play. Its metallic Prime artwork has helped it remain a standout Triumphant pull.
8. Celebi (Prime) #92
Celebi Prime carved out a niche for its “Forest Breath” ability, enabling an extra Grass Energy attachment each turn. This acceleration gave Grass decks the speed to compete with faster archetypes of the era. Mew/Celebi builds took advantage of the synergy, making it more than just a collector’s card. As a mythical Pokémon, its Prime foil treatment also resonates strongly with fans.
7. Machamp (Prime) #95
Machamp Prime embodied raw power and aggression. Its “Fighting Tag” ability allowed it to switch into play and accelerate Fighting Energy, creating sudden bursts of offense. Decks paired it with Donphan Prime for a bruising Fighting strategy that could overwhelm slower builds. The artwork captures Machamp’s imposing presence, making it both a competitive and visual highlight.
6. Absol (Prime) #91
Absol Prime appealed to players who favored disruption. Its “Eye of Disaster” Poké-Body placed damage counters on opposing Basic Pokémon, punishing setups before they evolved. Combined with its Dark-type attacks, Absol could derail strategies right from the start. The ominous Prime artwork still makes it a popular target for collectors.
5. Alph Lithograph #FOUR
The Alph Lithograph series ran across the HGSS block, and Triumphant delivered the fourth and final version. Its text appeared in Unown lettering, leaving players and collectors intrigued by its puzzle-like design. While it wasn’t a competitive staple, its rarity and novelty turned it into a major chase card within the set. Even today, its mysterious nature keeps it desirable.
4. Palkia & Dialga Legend, Top #101 & Bottom #102
The Legend mechanic split illustrations across two cards, and Palkia & Dialga offered one of the most dramatic examples. Assembled, the pair formed a striking scene of the Sinnoh dragons in combat. They didn’t dominate tournaments, but the collectible thrill of uniting both halves elevated their appeal. Many collectors pursue these cards purely for the artwork’s grandeur.
3. Darkrai & Cresselia Legend, Top #99 & Bottom #100
Darkrai & Cresselia Legend delivered one of the most visually balanced Legend pairs. The design contrasted Darkrai’s shadows with Cresselia’s radiant glow, creating a card duo that stood apart from others in the block. On the competitive side, their ability to manipulate damage counters gave them a unique strategic niche. Collectors continue to prize the complete artwork as one of Triumphant’s best designs.
2. Mew (Prime) #97
Mew Prime remains one of the most inventive cards of the HGSS era. Its “Lost Link” Poké-Body let it copy attacks of Pokémon placed in the Lost Zone, opening up endless deck-building creativity. This design made it the star of “Mew Toolbox” strategies and a nightmare for unprepared opponents. Its collectible appeal is just as strong today, securing its place as a grail for HGSS collectors.
1. Gengar (Prime) #94
Gengar Prime stands as the defining card of Triumphant. Its “Hurl Into Darkness” attack could banish opponent’s Pokémon directly into the Lost Zone, shutting down setups in devastating fashion. Competitive players feared it, while collectors embraced its eerie, ghostly Prime artwork. Its power, scarcity, and unforgettable design secure Gengar Prime’s legacy as the ultimate Triumphant card.
Triumphant remains one of the HGSS era’s most memorable sets, combining powerful gameplay cards with iconic collector pieces. With its mix of Primes, Legends, and the final Alph Lithograph, it continues to represent a perfect intersection of competitive innovation and collectible artistry.
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