The most immediate draw for these new volumes is the aggressive $23.99 MSRP , a price point that feels almost like a mistake given the contents. Unlike Vol. 3 and Vol. 4 , which were weighed down by less desirable packs like Legacy of the Master (OP-12) and Two Legends (OP-08), Vol. 5 and 6 have completely overhauled their pack selection. You are no longer paying for bulk; you are paying for premium hits. Each box comes loaded with two packs of OP-13 (Carrying on His Will) and two packs of the high-value PRB-02 (Premium Booster Vol. 2) .
Let’s talk about that pack quality because it is the real game-changer here. PRB-02 is widely considered one of the best value sets Bandai has released, filled with high-rarity reprints and "god pack" potential that collectors chase religiously. Pair that with OP-13 , where the "Carrying on His Will" singles are currently absolutely on fire in the secondary market, and you have a sealed product that offers immediate EV (Expected Value) rivalry to products twice its price. This isn't just a pretty box; it's a legitimate lottery ticket.
To understand the long-term potential, we only need to look at the history of this product line. Illustration Box Vol. 1 is currently sitting comfortably around $125 , and Vol. 2 is trending upward near $80 . Even the weaker Vol. 3 and 4 are trading well above their retail price. These boxes have a proven track record of appreciating in value as sealed collectibles, and given that Vol. 5 and 6 feature significantly better booster packs and highly anticipated promos (featuring fan-favorites like Ace, Sabo, Law, and Rosinante), they are poised to outperform the entire lineup.
The strategy here is simple: check your local Walmart . If you can secure these for the $24 retail price, you are instantly winning. The current market price for the promos alone often subsidizes a huge chunk of the box cost, effectively making the booster packs free. With Carrying on His Will singles commanding high prices and the insatiable demand for Premium Booster cards, keeping a few of these sealed for the long term or cracking them for singles are both winning plays.
We are still in the infancy of the Illustration Box line. With us just reaching volumes 5 and 6, Bandai is clearly committed to this format, and they are listening to player feedback by upgrading the pack selection. As the One Piece TCG continues its meteoric rise, early, unique sealed products like this will become harder to find. Vol. 5 and 6 represent the perfect storm of affordability, pack quality, and collectibility. Don't be the one looking back in six months wishing you had bought in at $24.