Darryl’s collecting journey began with the release of Pokémon Blue, a game that sparked his lifelong passion for Pokémon and trading card games. His initial foray into the TCG world saw him collecting the Base Set for Pokémon and The Legend of Blue Eyes White Dragon for Yu-Gi-Oh, two foundational sets that introduced him to the magic of trading cards.
After years of casual collecting, Darryl’s journey took a serious turn when he received his first CGC slabbed Pokémon card. This moment marked a significant milestone, as it reawakened his connection to the TCG world and ignited a fervor for graded cards. Since then, Darryl has been actively acquiring both raw cards for grading and already graded slabs, cementing his place in the world of serious collectors.
A Focus on Pokémon: A Collector’s Heart
While Darryl enjoys a variety of collectibles, his primary focus lies in Pokémon. The franchise holds a special place in his heart, and his collection reflects this deep connection. His journey centers on acquiring raw cards that he can grade himself, as well as seeking out rare, graded slabs that hold personal significance.
One of his current goals is building a collection of Japanese McDonald's promos and Poncho Pikachus, which have become some of the most beloved and sought-after Pokémon cards among collectors. Darryl’s discerning eye and thoughtful approach to collecting mean that each slab he acquires is a carefully curated piece of his broader collection.
Cherished Possessions and Memorable Moments
Among Darryl’s most prized possessions is a Japanese PSA 10 Pikachu Promo, featuring Pikachu dressed in a traditional kimono. This card not only reflects Darryl’s love for Pokémon but also his admiration for Japanese culture, beautifully weaving together both worlds in a single, rare collectible.
Another standout moment in Darryl’s collecting journey came when he appeared as an extra on Pawn Stars Do America. After participating in Chumlee’s Whatnot stream, Darryl was recognized and invited to connect with Chumlee in person. Sharing their mutual love for Pokémon, Darryl experienced the surreal joy of bonding with one of his favorite TV personalities over their shared passion for collecting.
Overcoming Challenges and Finding Inspiration
Like many collectors, Darryl faces challenges in his pursuit of the perfect cards. The primary hurdle is striking a balance between finding reasonably priced cards and managing the funds needed to expand his collection. In the competitive world of Pokémon TCG, prices can fluctuate rapidly, making the hunt for affordable cards both thrilling and daunting.
Darryl draws inspiration from various sources, including Arito, an artist whose live drawing sessions on Instagram have made a lasting impression. Seeing Arito’s name on a Base Set Charizard further solidified Darryl’s love for the artwork behind the cards, deepening his appreciation for the creative side of TCGs.
A Personal Collecting Philosophy
Darryl’s approach to collecting is refreshingly simple and genuine: “It’s your collection—collect what you want.” This philosophy underscores his entire journey, reminding collectors that personal enjoyment and passion should always come first. Whether it’s Pokémon, trainers, waifus, or energy cards, Darryl believes that the value of a collection comes from the collector’s personal connection to the cards, not just their market price.
Future Horizons: Expanding the Mewtwo Collection
Looking ahead, Darryl is excited to expand his Mewtwo collection, a particular focus within his broader Pokémon journey. His aspirations include acquiring a range of Mewtwo cards, from autographed blueback and greenback variants to rare error blueback cards. This quest for Mewtwo cards is just the next step in Darryl’s ongoing pursuit of completing his dream collection.
Sage Advice for New Collectors
For those just stepping into the world of TCG collecting, Darryl offers valuable advice: “The most expensive card is not always the most coveted. Collect what you want, whether it’s a specific Pokémon, trainer, or type of card. And most importantly, enjoy the process.”
Darryl’s words echo a sentiment that all collectors, whether seasoned or new, can appreciate: the joy of collecting comes from the passion behind it, not from chasing the highest price tag.
If you’re interested in following Darryl’s collecting adventures or connecting with him directly, you can find him on Instagram under the handle @droxastcg. His profile showcases his growing collection and offers a window into the heart of a true Pokémon enthusiast.
Darryl’s story is a celebration of the joy, authenticity, and passion that define the world of TCG collecting. His journey serves as a reminder that collecting is more than just a hobby—it’s a way to connect with art, culture, and a vibrant community of fellow enthusiasts.