Paldean Fates is a special set (think Shining Fates) built around shiny Pokémon — so it plays differently from a standard expansion.
The chase cards
Shiny Charizard ex is the headline chase, with a deep shiny "treasure" subset and shiny baby Pokémon driving broad demand. Special sets are hit-dense by design — that's why they cost more per pack.
Rip or hold?
High hit density makes it fun to rip, and the short special-set print window supports sealed appreciation — both work. The ETB and the bundle SKUs are the common entry points.
Verdict
Worth it for shiny collectors and as a sealed hold (special-set scarcity). Buy at retail — special sets command premiums fast. Use the resale calculator and QuickCatch to avoid the markup. Compare with Prismatic Evolutions.