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 pre-orders have commenced, the launch has been tumultuous, with scalpers and store issues already causing significant disruptions.

Destined Rivals is highly anticipated for several reasons. It marks the return of Trainer's Pokémon cards, a nostalgic feature for long-time collectors who fondly remember classics like Brock's Sandslash or Rocket's Mewtwo. These cards creatively integrate beloved Trainers with their Pokémon, adding a unique layer to the game. Additionally, the set focuses on Team Rocket, the iconic villainous team from the first generation of Pokémon, which adds to its allure. Much like the earlier Prismatic Evolutions set, which celebrated Eevee-lutions, Destined Rivals is poised to be a fan favorite.

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 card packs and other collectibles, are a popular choice for those eager to dive into a new set. Scalpers quickly capitalized on the situation, listing pre-orders of the Pokémon Center-specific ETB on eBay for several hundred dollars, far above the usual $54.99 price tag. Joe Merrick of Serebii expressed his frustration, highlighting the shift of the Pokémon TCG towards a financial investment rather than a hobby.

This issue is not unique to Destined Rivals; previous sets like Prismatic Evolutions and Blooming Waters 151 also faced similar shortages and rapid sell-outs. The Pokémon Company has acknowledged the issue, stating that more inventory of the Destined Rivals ETB will be available later in the year. However, some fans have reported their orders being cancelled, adding to the frustration.

The high demand and popularity of the Pokémon TCG are evident, but they are also overshadowing the joy of the hobby for many. While Pokémon TCG Pocket offers a digital alternative, the struggle to obtain physical cards remains a significant challenge. A visit to your local store's card aisle will likely reveal the difficulty in finding packs. These exciting releases are marred by the ongoing issues, and fans hope for swift solutions to these problems.