Pokémon TCG Launch Faces Scalping, Shortages, and Outages Again

The latest Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) set, Scarlet & Violet - Destined Rivals, was fully unveiled on March 24 and is set to launch on May 30, 2025. As expected, the pre-order phase has been tumultuous, with scalpers and various store issues already complicating the launch for avid collectors.

Destined Rivals is particularly anticipated for several reasons. It marks the return of Trainer's Pokémon cards, reminiscent of classics like Brock's Sandslash and Rocket's Mewtwo, which are beloved by long-time fans. Additionally, the set centers around Team Rocket from the first generation of Pokémon, adding to its allure. Much like the earlier Prismatic Evolutions set, which focused on Eevee evolutions, Destined Rivals promises to be a highly sought-after addition to the Pokémon TCG.

Pokémon TCG: Scarlet & Violet - Destined Rivals Pokémon Center Elite Trainer Box Images

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When pre-orders opened, the Pokémon Center website struggled to handle the traffic, leaving many fans unable to secure an Elite Trainer Box (ETB). These boxes, which include themed packs and accessories, are a popular choice for those eager to dive into a new set. Unfortunately, scalpers quickly took advantage of the situation, listing pre-orders on eBay for prices significantly higher than the usual $54.99, with some reaching several hundred dollars. Joe Merrick of Serebii expressed his frustration on social media, highlighting the shift of the Pokémon TCG towards a financial investment rather than a hobby, lamenting the scalping culture.

This issue is not new to the Pokémon TCG community. Previous sets like Prismatic Evolutions and Blooming Waters 151 also faced similar challenges with shortages and rapid sell-outs. The Pokémon Company has responded to the situation, stating in an online FAQ that more inventory of the Destined Rivals ETB will be available later in the year. However, despite these assurances, some buyers are reporting that their ETB orders have been cancelled, adding to the frustration.

The high demand and popularity of the Pokémon TCG are evident, but it's clear that the hobby is being overshadowed by these ongoing issues. While digital alternatives like Pokémon TCG Pocket offer solutions to physical scarcity, many fans still desire the tangible experience of opening packs and playing with physical cards. A visit to your local store's card aisle will likely illustrate the difficulty in finding these products, making the excitement around new releases like Destined Rivals even more bittersweet. Hopefully, solutions will emerge soon to alleviate these challenges for collectors and enthusiasts.