Pokemon TCG Scrambles to Print More Cards Amidst Collector Rush

Pokemon TCG's Prismatic Evolutions: High Demand Leads to Reprints

The Pokémon Company is responding to unexpectedly high demand for its latest Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) expansion, Scarlet & Violet—Prismatic Evolutions, by initiating an immediate reprint. Initial reports of shortages emerged on January 4th, 2025, on PokeBeach, a Pokémon TCG fan website, highlighting difficulties faced by smaller US retailers.

The Pokémon Company acknowledged the issue on January 16th, 2025, stating that high demand impacted initial availability. A spokesperson confirmed that they are working at maximum capacity to increase production and address the shortages as quickly as possible.

The surge in demand disproportionately affected smaller US stores. Distributors limited supplies by 10-15% for local retailers, while larger chains like GameStop and Target received significantly larger allocations. This led to concerns about price gouging, with the Elite Trainer Box already commanding inflated prices on secondary markets.

The Scarlet & Violet—Prismatic Evolutions expansion was initially announced on November 1st, 2024, with a release date of January 17th, 2025. The set features Tera Pokémon ex, new special illustration rare cards, and reprints of popular cards with new artwork. Additional product releases, including a Surprise Box, Mini Tin, Booster Bundle, and Pouch Special Collection, are scheduled for February, March, and April 2025.

A digital version of the set launched on Pokémon TCG Live on January 16th, 2025, for iOS, Android, macOS, and Windows, providing players an early opportunity to experience the new cards.

While the immediate shortage is disappointing for collectors, the Pokémon Company's commitment to reprinting offers reassurance that the situation will eventually improve.