Complete Guide to Pokemon TCG Set Symbols and Rarities

Every collector and player has stood in front of a Pokemon TCG booster pack or booster box, staring at the tiny symbols and rarity codes wondering what they actually mean. Are those symbols just cute illustrations, or do they represent something valuable? What does that C, UC, or UR mean on the card back? Understanding Pokemon TCG set symbols and rarities isn't just for collectors—knowing rarity helps players build better decks and makes wise investment decisions.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Pokemon TCG set symbols, rarity codes, and how they've evolved across decades of card collecting. Whether you're a beginner just starting your collection or a seasoned investor looking to understand the current market, this guide has you covered.

Understanding the Basics: What Are Set Symbols?

Set symbols are the unique icons printed on every Pokemon TCG card, located at the bottom of the card design, just below the HP bar and below the artwork. These symbols serve several important functions:

• Identification: They tell you which expansion or set a card belongs to
• Release Year: They help date when a card was released
• Collector Value: Different sets command different market values based on popularity and demand
• Completion Tracking: Collectors use them to track their collection completeness

Why Set Symbols Matter to Collectors

Set symbols are more than just decoration. They can indicate whether a card is common, uncommon, rare, or a special parallel. In many cases, the set symbol itself becomes a badge of honor among collectors, with some sets being more sought after than others.

For example, the Base Set symbol featuring a sunburst pattern is iconic among collectors, with many seeking out cards from this foundational set. Similarly, the Neo Genesis symbol—a stylized evolution symbol—became a coveted rarity for collectors who appreciate the unique design and the cards' historical significance.

Rarity Codes Explained: The System That's Evolved Over Time

The rarity code system used in Pokemon TCG has changed significantly over the years. What started with simple letters has evolved into a complex system of special rarities, promotional materials, and special sets.

The Original Rarity System (Base Set Era)

When the Pokemon TCG launched in 1999, the rarity system was relatively simple:

• C: Common—cards found in every booster pack
• UC: Uncommon—found approximately 4-5 per booster pack
• R: Rare—found approximately 1 per booster pack

These three rarity levels dominated the early years of Pokemon TCG collecting. The Base Set, released in 1999, established this foundation, and collectors quickly learned to distinguish between commons, uncommons, and rares by their frequency in booster packs and their distinctive card backs.

The Introduction of Special Rarities

As the game grew, players and collectors clamored for more exciting chase cards. Wizards of the Coast responded by introducing special rarity levels:

• RR: Rare Rare—more valuable than regular rares, often with unique card back markings
• CSR: Collector's Rare—special foil cards with unique backs, highly sought after by collectors

The Base Set introduced the Collector's Rare foils, which became incredibly popular due to their distinctive holographic effects and special card backs. These cards were extremely valuable in their day and remain highly collectible today.

Visual Characteristics of Special Rarities

Special rarity cards typically share several visual characteristics:

• Unique card backs distinguishing them from regular cards in the same set
• Enhanced holographic effects or special foil patterns
• Higher production values with more detailed printing
• Unique art treatments or variations not found in regular cards

The Neo Era (2000-2003): A New Era of Collecting

The Neo era brought significant changes to Pokemon TCG set symbols and rarity structures. During this period, Wizards of the Coast shifted from American-style sets to Japanese-inspired releases, introducing entirely new visual systems.

Neo e-Series: Evolution Symbols as Rarity Indicators

The Neo Genesis set (2000) introduced a groundbreaking rarity system based on evolution stages:

• 1: Common (stage 1 evolutions)
• 2: Uncommon (stage 2 evolutions)
• 3: Rare (base stage Pokemon and basic energy)
• 4: Rare Rare (very valuable cards, often holo)
• 5: Ultra Rare (extremely rare, often highly prized)

This system was revolutionary and set the stage for future rarity innovations. The Neo e-Series cards are known for their distinctive artwork and playability, making them favorites among collectors and players alike.

Neo Discovery: Parallel Rarities

The Neo Discovery set (2000) introduced another innovation: parallel rarities with rainbow foil treatments. These cards were visually stunning and became instant favorites among collectors.

Key features of Neo Discovery rarities:

• Rainbow foil treatments on rare cards
• Enhanced card backs with unique symbols
• Production runs limited to certain amounts
• High collector value due to the innovative foil treatments

The EX Era (2003-2005): Game-Changing Mechanics and Rarities

The EX era represents one of the most exciting periods in Pokemon TCG history. These sets introduced massive Pokemon that could attack for huge damage but took double damage from trainer cards—a completely new mechanic that reshaped gameplay.

EX Set Symbols and Rarity Structures

EX sets featured a unique rarity system with special emphasis on the powerful EX Pokemon:

• C: Common
• UC: Uncommon
• R: Rare
• RR: Rare Rare (common in EX sets, highly valuable)
• SR: Special Rare (promotional cards and special reprints)

What made EX sets unique was the abundance of Rare Rare cards. Unlike previous sets where Rare Rares were exceptions, EX sets had them almost regularly, making them incredibly popular among collectors seeking chase cards.

Collector Value of EX Cards

EX cards hold significant collector value for several reasons:

• Massive HP and attack damage made them exciting for gameplay
• Unique card backs with EX logos and special printing
• Many EX cards feature alternate artwork compared to their non-EX counterparts
• Historic significance as a major mechanic shift in the TCG
• Availability—excellent starter decks and theme packs made them accessible to new players

Notable EX Set Symbols

Some of the most iconic EX set symbols include:

• Deoxys EX—star-and-pattern design with crystal elements
• Lucario EX—dynamic pose with distinctive artwork style
• Garchomp EX—aggressive design reflecting its powerful attacks
• Rayquaza EX—majestic green-and-blue palette with crown-like symbol

The Diamond & Pearl Era (2007-2009): Revitalizing the Brand

The Diamond & Pearl (DP) era brought Pokemon back to its roots with a renewed focus on simple, clean designs and classic gameplay. The rarity system underwent significant changes during this period.

DP Rarity Code System

Wizards of the Coast returned to a more traditional rarity structure during the DP era:

• C: Common
• UC: Uncommon
• R: Rare
• SR: Special Rare—these were prominent during DP, featuring special card backs and unique artwork

Special Rares became the highlight of DP sets, with many collectors specifically seeking out these cards for their unique aesthetics and relatively accessible prices compared to earlier special rarities.

Collector's Rare Return

The Diamond & Pearl era reintroduced Collector's Rare cards, which became highly sought after by collectors. These cards featured:

• Special card backs with collector's edition designs
• Rainbow foil treatments
• Enhanced holographic effects
• Distinct visual style separating them from regular rares

Ultimate Rare Innovation

Another significant innovation during the DP era was the Ultimate Rare. These cards featured full-foil card fronts with unique artwork treatments. Ultimate Rares became instant fan favorites and established a precedent for future special rarity cards.

Key characteristics of Ultimate Rares:

• Full-foil card fronts with no text bars or health points visible
• Distinctive gradient effects and artwork enhancements
• Semi-foil artwork that changes appearance when tilted
• Often the most valuable cards in their respective sets

Black & White Era (2010-2013): Refining the System

The Black & White (BW) era marked a continuation of the special rarity innovations that had begun in DP, with some refinements and new ideas.

BW Rarity Structure

The BW era maintained a similar rarity structure to DP:

• C: Common
• UC: Uncommon
• R: Rare
• SR: Special Rare
• UR: Ultra Rare (promotional cards and special reprints)

What made BW special was the refinement of Special Rare and Ultra Rare cards, with more elaborate card backs and unique foil treatments becoming standard.

Black Star Promos

The Black & White era introduced the Black Star Promo system, which remains one of the most exciting aspects of Pokemon TCG collecting. These promotional cards were:

• Available through tournaments, events, and special programs
• Often featuring alternate artwork or special designs
• Highly sought after by collectors for their rarity
• Often more valuable than regular set cards

Black Star Promos became essential for collectors looking to complete sets or add valuable chase cards to their collections.

Radiant Pokémon and Full Art Cards

The BW era saw the introduction of Full Art and Radiant Pokémon cards, which featured stunning artwork that extended across the entire card. These became instant favorites among collectors and established the pattern for future special rarities.

Notable Black & White special rarities include:

• Reshiram & Zekrom (Full Art)—epic two-card artwork reflecting their legendary status
• Zekrom GX (Expanded)—introduced GX mechanics with unique card designs
• Virizion (Radiant)—stunning artwork with special effects
• Tornadus (Full Art)—dynamic action photography style

The XY Era (2013-2016): The Modern Era

The XY era brought Pokemon TCG into the modern age with unprecedented graphics, expanded gameplay, and sophisticated rarity systems. This is when the TCG really began to resemble today's product.

XY Rarity Structure

The XY era established the rarity structure that persists to this day:

• C: Common
• UC: Uncommon
• R: Rare
• SR: Special Rare
• UR: Ultra Rare
• SIR: Secret Rare (introduced in XY)
• SSR: Secret Star Rare (later variant)

Secret Rares: A Game-Changer

The Secret Rare was introduced during the XY era and revolutionized Pokemon TCG collecting. Secret Rares were unique because they broke the normal set size limits—appearing at the very end of the rarity scale, making them the rarest and most valuable cards in each set.

Key characteristics of Secret Rares:

• Appear at rarities beyond the normal set limits (often 1/72, 1/72, 1/72, 1/72, 1/168, 1/192, 1/216, etc.)
• Full-foil card fronts with enhanced artwork
• Unique card backs with set-specific symbols
• Often feature alternate artwork or special effects
• Most sought-after cards in modern sets

Star Rare Innovations

The XY era also introduced Star Rare cards, which featured enhanced artwork and special effects. Star Rares were highly collectible and established the pattern for future special rarity cards.

Notable XY Secret Rares include:

• Venusaur EX (Secret Rare)—iconic artwork with powerful foil effects
• Mewtwo GX (Secret Rare)—alternate artwork with special printing
• Rayquaza GX (Secret Rare)—dynamic gameplay artwork
• Charizard GX (Secret Rare)—nostalgic appeal from original set

The Sun & Moon Era (2016-2019): Embracing Alolan Forms

The Sun & Moon (SM) era brought Pokemon TCG into the age of Alolan forms, regional variants, and evolved mechanics like GX. This era refined and expanded upon the XY rarity system.

SM Rarity Structure

The Sun & Moon era maintained the XY rarity structure but added more complexity:

• C: Common
• UC: Uncommon
• R: Rare
• SR: Special Rare
• UR: Ultra Rare
• SIR: Secret Rare

Special Rarity Variations

Sun & Moon sets introduced several special rarity variations:

• Secret Star Rare—often referred to as SSR, these featured special card backs and enhanced effects
• Golden Rainbow Rare—full-foil card with rainbow effects, highly collectible
• Full Art GX—cards with artwork extending across the card with special foil treatments

Collector's Rare Return

The Sun & Moon era also reintroduced Collector's Rare cards, which became popular for collectors who appreciated their unique aesthetics and special card backs.

Notable Sun & Moon Secret Rares include:

• Moltres-GX (Secret Rare)—iconic artwork with special effects
• Pikachu VMAX (Secret Rare)—nostalgic appeal from the anime
• Garchomp VMAX (Secret Rare)—dynamic gameplay imagery
• Reshiram & Zekrom GX (Secret Rare)—legendary duo with epic artwork

The Sword & Shield Era (2019-2022): The Galar Revolution

The Sword & Shield (SW/SH) era represented a complete redesign of Pokemon TCG visuals and introduced new mechanics like V and VMAX. This era refined the rarity system while introducing exciting new collectible formats.

SW/SH Rarity Structure

The Sword & Shield era maintained the modern rarity structure:

• C: Common
• UC: Uncommon
• R: Rare
• SR: Special Rare
• UR: Ultra Rare
• SIR: Secret Rare

Special Rarity Innovations

Sword & Shield sets introduced several exciting special rarity innovations:

• Full Art VMAX—cards with artwork extending across the card, featuring special effects
• Secret Star Rare—often called SSR, featuring special card backs and enhanced effects
• Glass Rare—semi-transparent card front with holographic effects
• Tag Team GX—cards featuring two Pokemon with separate HP bars and attacks

Premium Collection Cards

The Sword & Shield era introduced Premium Collection cards, which featured special foil treatments and card backs. These became popular among collectors looking for higher-quality chase cards.

Notable Sword & Shield Secret Rares include:

• Charizard VMAX (Secret Rare)—nostalgic appeal from original set
• Pikachu VMAX (Secret Rare)—iconic artwork with special effects
• Eevee VMAX (Secret Rare)—playable VMAX with collectible appeal
• Mewtwo & Mew GX (Secret Rare)—legendary duo with epic artwork

The Scarlet & Violet Era (2022-Present): The Future of Collecting

The Scarlet & Violet (SV) era represents the most current period of Pokemon TCG collecting, introducing new mechanics, fresh designs, and continued innovation in rarity systems.

SV Rarity Structure

The Scarlet & Violet era maintains the modern rarity structure with some variations:

• C: Common
• UC: Uncommon
• R: Rare
• SR: Special Rare
• UR: Ultra Rare
• SIR: Secret Rare

Special Rarity Innovations

Scarlet & Violet sets have introduced several exciting special rarity innovations:

• Full Art VSTAR—cards with artwork extending across the card, featuring special effects
• Secret Star Rare—often called SSR, featuring special card backs and enhanced effects
• Glass Rare—semi-transparent card front with holographic effects
• Character Rare—cards featuring Pokemon as human characters

New Collector-Friendly Formats

The Scarlet & Violet era has introduced collector-friendly formats like Elite Trainer Box collections and Booster Box bundles that make collecting more accessible. These formats include special guarantee cards and enhanced rarity distributions.

Notable Scarlet & Violet Secret Rares include:

• Pikachu & Eevee VMAX (Secret Rare)—iconic duo with special effects
• Charizard VSTAR (Secret Rare)—nostalgic appeal with modern design
• Gengar VSTAR (Secret Rare)—playable VSTAR with collectible appeal
• Mewtwo & Mew VSTAR (Secret Rare)—legendary duo with epic artwork

Visual Guide: How to Identify Each Era's Set Symbols

Identifying Pokemon TCG set symbols requires a keen eye for design details. Here's a visual guide to help you recognize symbols from each era:

Base Set (1999)

• Symbol: Sunburst pattern with a Pokeball center
• Characteristics: Simple, iconic design that's instantly recognizable
• Rarity Indicators: C, UC, R, RR, CSR on card back
• Collector Appeal: Foundation of the TCG, highly collectible

Neo e-Series (2000-2003)

• Symbol: Stylized evolution symbol with wave patterns
• Characteristics: Japanese-inspired design with curved lines
• Rarity Indicators: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 on card back
• Collector Appeal: Revolutionary rarity system, highly sought after

EX Era (2003-2005)

• Symbol: EX logo with attack-style design
• Characteristics: Bold, aggressive design reflecting powerful EX Pokemon
• Rarity Indicators: C, UC, R, RR, SR on card back
• Collector Appeal: Massive HP and attack damage, unique card backs

Diamond & Pearl (2007-2009)

• Symbol: Diamond shape with diamond-shaped pattern
• Characteristics: Clean, geometric design reflecting the game's focus
• Rarity Indicators: C, UC, R, SR, UR, Ultimate Rare
• Collector Appeal: Ultimate Rare innovation, collector's rare return

Black & White (2010-2013)

• Symbol: Black and white paw print design
• Characteristics: Minimalist design with bold contrasts
• Rarity Indicators: C, UC, R, SR, UR, Black Star Promos
• Collector Appeal: Full Art cards, Radiant Pokemon

XY (2013-2016)

• Symbol: XY logo with stylized designs
• Characteristics: Modern, geometric design with clean lines
• Rarity Indicators: C, UC, R, SR, UR, SIR, Secret Rares
• Collector Appeal: Secret Rare innovation, Star Rare designs

Sun & Moon (2016-2019)

• Symbol: Sun and moon with star pattern
• Characteristics: Celestial theme reflecting the game's name
• Rarity Indicators: C, UC, R, SR, UR, SIR, Secret Star Rares
• Collector Appeal: Golden Rainbow Rare, Full Art GX

Sword & Shield (2019-2022)

• Symbol: Sword and shield with shield pattern
• Characteristics: Defensive design reflecting the game's theme
• Rarity Indicators: C, UC, R, SR, UR, SIR, Secret Star Rares
• Collector Appeal: Full Art VMAX, Premium Collection cards

Scarlet & Violet (2022-Present)

• Symbol: Scarlet and violet colors with stylized pattern
• Characteristics: Bold, colorful design reflecting the game's vibrant theme
• Rarity Indicators: C, UC, R, SR, UR, SIR, Secret Star Rares
• Collector Appeal: New mechanics, fresh designs, collector-friendly formats

Collector Value by Rarity: What You Should Know

Understanding rarity is crucial for building a valuable collection. Here's a breakdown of how rarity translates to collector value across different eras:

Rarity Value Hierarchy (Modern Era)

• Secret Rares: Most valuable cards, often 10-100x common card value
• Ultra Rares: Highly collectible, 5-10x common card value
• Special Rares: Valuable chase cards, 3-5x common card value
• Rare: Standard chase cards, 2-3x common card value
• Uncommon: Collectible but less valuable, 1-2x common card value
• Common: Foundation of collections, often bulk value

Rarity Value Hierarchy (Classic Era)

• Collector's Rare: Extremely valuable, often 50-500x common value
• Ultra Rare: Highly collectible, 20-100x common value
• Rare Rare: Valuable chase cards, 10-50x common value
• Rare: Standard chase cards, 3-10x common value
• Uncommon: Collectible but less valuable, 1-2x common value
• Common: Foundation of collections, often bulk value

Factors That Influence Rarity Value

Several factors beyond just rarity affect a card's collector value:

• Card Rarity Type: Secret Rares typically command the highest values
• Set Popularity: Popular sets command higher values across all rarities
• Card Artwork: Iconic artwork often increases value regardless of rarity
• Card Condition: NM-Mint condition is essential for high-value cards
• Print Run: Limited print runs increase value
• Historical Significance: Foundation sets and milestone cards are more valuable
• Playability: Cards that are used in competitive play often maintain value
• Popularity of Character: Fan-favorite characters like Pikachu maintain value

Building a Valuable Collection: Tips and Strategies

Building a valuable Pokemon TCG collection requires strategy and knowledge. Here are some tips to help you maximize your collection's potential:

Focus on High-Rarity Cards

While collecting every card in a set is fun, focusing on high-rarity cards like Secret Rares and Ultra Rares can increase your collection's value significantly. These cards are more likely to appreciate in value over time.

What to Buy:

• Secret Rares from popular sets
• Ultra Rares featuring iconic Pokemon
• Collector's Rare cards from early eras
• Special rare cards with unique artwork

What to Avoid:

• Bulk commons and uncommons
• Duplicate high-rarity cards
• Limited edition promotional cards with low demand
• Artificially inflated prices from scalpers

Focus on Sets with Long-Term Appreciation

Not all sets appreciate equally. Focus on sets that have historical significance or are likely to become collectible classics.

Historically Significant Sets:

• Base Set (1999): Foundation of the TCG
• Neo Genesis (2000): Revolutionary rarity system
• EX sets (2003-2005): Major mechanic introduction
• Diamond & Pearl (2007-2009): Refinement of rarity system
• XY (2013-2016): Modern era beginning

Emerging Collectible Sets:

• Scarlet & Violet (2022-Present): New era, potentially valuable
• Sword & Shield (2019-2022): Popular set with strong collector demand
• Sun & Moon (2016-2019): Exciting mechanics and designs

Maintain Card Condition

Card condition is paramount for high-value cards. Always buy and handle cards with care:

• Use card sleeves for storage
• Store cards in protective sleeves
• Keep cards in cool, dry environments
• Use hard cases for high-value cards
• Handle cards by edges, avoiding fingerprints

Grading Considerations

• NM-Mint (Near Mint) is the standard for most collectors
• Higher grades (10, 9.5) command premium prices
• Beckett (BGS) and PSA are industry leaders in grading
• Graded cards are easier to sell but cost more to get

Diversify Your Collection

A diverse collection across multiple eras and sets is more resilient and likely to appreciate over time:

• Include cards from multiple eras
• Mix rare and special cards with staple cards
• Diversify across Pokemon types and families
• Include both competitive and collectible cards

Where to Buy and Sell Pokemon TCG Cards

Knowing where to buy and sell Pokemon TCG cards can help you maximize your investment and grow your collection efficiently.

Buying Cards

• eBay: Wide selection, competitive pricing, excellent for single cards
• Amazon: Convenient, often better for sealed product
• TCGPlayer: Specialized marketplace with competitive pricing
• CardMarket: European marketplace with good prices
• Local Game Stores: Often have competitive singles and sealed product

Buying Tips:

• Check seller ratings and reviews
• Compare prices across multiple sellers
• Ask for detailed photos of card condition
• Look for bundle deals to save on shipping
• Consider bulk purchases for better rates

Selling Cards

• TCGPlayer: Good for competitive singles, seller-friendly fees
• eBay: Wide audience, competitive market
• CardMarket: Good for European market
• Local Game Stores: Quick sales, convenient
• Private Sales: Through collector groups and forums

Selling Tips:

• Take clear, well-lit photos of cards
• Describe condition honestly and accurately
• Set competitive starting prices
• Consider offering bundle deals
• Respond promptly to inquiries

FAQ: Pokemon TCG Set Symbols and Rarities

What does the Pokemon TCG set symbol actually represent?

The set symbol identifies which expansion or set a card belongs to. It helps collectors identify cards, determine release dates, and track collection progress. Different symbols indicate different eras, with each era having its own distinctive symbol design.

How can I tell if a card is a Secret Rare?

Secret Rares are identified by their rarity code appearing beyond the normal set limits. They typically appear at the end of the rarity scale (e.g., after SR, UR, SIR), and often feature full-foil card fronts with enhanced artwork. You can also tell by the unique card back design, which often includes the set symbol and special wording like "Secret Rare." Secret Rares are the most valuable cards in modern sets.

What is the difference between Ultra Rare and Secret Rare?

Ultra Rare and Secret Rare are both special rarity cards, but they have different rarity levels and characteristics. Ultra Rares appear within the normal set size limits and have unique card backs but not full-foil card fronts. Secret Rares break the set size limits, appearing at rarities beyond the normal scale, and feature full-foil card fronts with enhanced artwork. Secret Rares are generally more valuable than Ultra Rares.

Which era of Pokemon TCG sets has the most valuable cards?

The Base Set (1999) and early Neo e-Series sets typically have the most valuable cards due to their historical significance and limited production. Cards from the EX era (2003-2005) are also highly collectible and valuable, particularly the Rare Rare and Collector's Rare cards. Modern Secret Rares from popular sets like Sword & Shield and Scarlet & Violet can also be quite valuable, though they may not reach the same levels as vintage cards.

How do I identify parallel rarity cards?

Parallel rarity cards are cards with the same card design but different foil treatments or finishing. They can be identified by their distinctive foil patterns, unique card backs, and often by comparison with regular cards from the same set. Parallel rarities include Rainbow Foil, Gold Foil, Holo Rare, and various special foil treatments introduced in different eras.

What is the best way to store valuable Pokemon TCG cards?

The best way to store valuable Pokemon TCG cards is to keep them in hard plastic cases (like Ultra Pro or Beckett holders) and store them in cool, dry conditions. For very valuable cards, consider professional grading (PSA or BGS) for added protection and value. Always handle cards by the edges and use card sleeves when handling or displaying them.

Are promotional cards (Black Star Promos) more valuable than set cards?

Some promotional cards are more valuable than their set counterparts, particularly those with alternate artwork or unique designs. However, many promotional cards are less valuable because they were widely distributed through tournaments and programs. The value depends on the specific card, its popularity, and its distribution. Always research specific promotional cards to determine their relative value.

How do I build a valuable Pokemon TCG collection on a budget?

You can build a valuable collection on a budget by focusing on specific sets rather than trying to collect everything. Look for valuable common and uncommon cards in sets you like, focus on Secret Rares from popular sets, and build around specific Pokemon or themes that interest you. Shop around for deals on eBay, Amazon, and specialized marketplaces, and consider buying graded cards or bulk lots to get more value for your money.

What's the difference between holo and non-holo cards?

Holo (holographic) cards have a foil-like finish that changes appearance when tilted or under different lighting. They're generally more valuable than non-holo (non-foil) cards because they're more visually appealing and harder to produce. In some sets, certain rarities like Rare, Ultra Rare, and Secret Rare come in both holo and non-holo versions, with the holo versions being more valuable.

Should I collect sealed product or single cards?

Both sealed product and single cards have their advantages. Sealed product offers the excitement of opening packs and building a collection over time, and can sometimes appreciate in value if sets become sought after. Single cards offer immediate access to specific valuable cards and are easier to resell. For investment purposes, many collectors prefer single cards because you know exactly what you're getting. For casual collecting, sealed product can be more fun and provide more variety.