Pokémon TCG Launch Faces Scalping, Shortages, and Outages Again

The latest Pokémon Trading Card Game set, Scarlet & Violet - Destined Rivals, has been fully unveiled and pre-orders are now underway. As is often the case with highly anticipated releases, the launch has been tumultuous, with scalpers and store issues already affecting the new set's availability.

Unveiled on March 24, Scarlet & Violet - Destined Rivals is set to launch starting on May 30, 2025. This set is particularly sought-after for a few reasons. Firstly, it marks the return of Trainer's Pokémon cards, a beloved feature for fans who fondly remember classics like Brock's Sandslash or Rocket's Mewtwo. These cards offer a unique way to integrate iconic Trainers into the gameplay. Additionally, Destined Rivals centers around Team Rocket, the notorious villainous team from Pokémon's first generation, adding to its allure and echoing the popularity of earlier sets like Prismatic Evolutions with its Eevee-lutions.

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

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When pre-orders for the Elite Trainer Box (ETB) went live, frustration quickly mounted. Many enthusiasts struggled to access the Pokémon Center website, eager to secure this themed box which typically includes packs and other collectibles. Unfortunately, scalpers swiftly listed their pre-orders on online marketplaces like eBay, with prices reaching several hundred dollars for a box that normally retails for $54.99. Joe Merrick from Serebii expressed his dismay, noting the shift of the Pokémon TCG towards a financial commodity rather than a hobby. "I truly hate this," Merrick stated. "The way almost all Pokemon TCG content has shifted to financial. The way that people just treat it as investment. The way people just want to flip it. It's disgusting. Shame on all involved."

This situation is not unique to Destined Rivals; sets like Prismatic Evolutions and Blooming Waters 151 also faced similar issues with shortages and rapid sell-outs. The Pokémon Company has acknowledged the high demand and assured that more inventory of the Destined Rivals ETB will be available later in the year, according to a FAQ on PokéBeach. Despite these assurances, some buyers have reported their orders being canceled, adding to the frustration.

The intense demand and popularity of the Pokémon TCG are evident, but these issues are dampening the enjoyment for many who simply want to enjoy the game. While Pokémon TCG Pocket provides a virtual alternative, the struggle to obtain physical cards remains a significant challenge. A visit to your local store's card aisle can quickly illustrate the difficulty of finding packs. It's particularly disheartening when these releases are as exciting as Destined Rivals. Hopefully, solutions to these problems will emerge soon.