I think that was a failed experiment
Only 1,100 copies of the set's rare cards were produced, as well as 4,500 uncommons, and 15,900 commons
Xanathar lets you pick one player and shut them out on your turn, and then you get to play spells from the top of their library
Whether for its rarity, connection to the franchises early days, or its historical significance, the Pikachu Illustrator Card is the epitome of Pokmon card collecting

Mime #123 - Scyther #124 - Jynx ex #125 - Electabuzz #126 - Magmar #127 - Pinsir #128 - Tauros #129 - Magikarp #130 - Gyarados #131 - Lapras #132 - Ditto #133 - Eevee #134 - Vaporeon #135 - Jolteon #136 - Flareon #137 - Porygon #138 - Omanyte #139 - Omastar #140 - Kabuto #141 - Kabutops #142 - Aerodactyl #143 - Snorlax #144 - Articuno #145 - Zapdos ex #146 - Moltres #147 - Dratini #148 - Dragonair #149 - Dragonite #150 - Mewtwo #151 - Mew ex #152 - Antique Dome Fossil #153 - Antique Helix Fossil #154 - Antique Old Amber #155 - Big Air Balloon #156 - Bill's Transfer #157 - Cycling Road #158 - Daisy's Help #159 - Energy Sticker #160 - Erika's Invitation #161 - Giovanni's Charisma #162 - Grabber #163 - Leftovers #164 - Protective Goggles #165 - Rigid Band #166 - Bulbasaur #167 - Ivysaur #168 - Charmander #169 - Charmeleon #170 - Squirtle #171 - Wartortle #172 - Caterpie #173 - Pikachu #174 - Nidoking #175 - Psyduck #176 - Poliwhirl #177 - Machoke #178 - Tangela #179 - Mr