Back in 2009, Topps platinum was released and boy did I hate every last little bit of that set. When things were redone in 2011, the set took on more of the form it currently showcases in 2015. Over the last few years, Platinum is one of the sets I look forward to every season, as it showcases more of the on card content and cool looking cards on Chrome stock that I love.

Here are some of the cards up so far:

2015 Topps Platinum Amari Cooper Auto NFL Shield Superfractor 1/1

2015 Topps Platinum Jameis Wiston On Card Auto Pulsar

2015 Topps Platinum Todd Gurley Gold Refractor On Card Auto

2015 Topps Platinum Marcus Mariota Auto Patch /25

As we have seen in 2014 and a little in 2013, Platinum is a bit more “out there” in the way it looks and is designed. This year takes it even further in its final year, going with a space age smoky cloud look that works in some ways and doesnt in others. The worst examples of the set are the colored refractors of the patch autos, where the sticker is highlighted in a white area separated from the color of the background.

Additionally, the veteran patch autos are pretty boring in their own right, with very little of the cool features of the rookie patch auto design. A small circle patch on a solid background just doesnt do it for me.

The best part of the set is the on card rookie autos, as they have been for a number of years. This years design is quite nice, although there are more stickers than previous years. I would guess this is the type of concession that is made to avoid redemptions in light of the pending Panini exclusive, and that is really unfortunate.

Either way, Platinum is still a fun set, and worth buying a box or two just to see what it looks like. There are some huge hits to be had, and if not, you will get some nice looking Chrome style rookies.