Pokémon TCG Launch Faces Scalping, Shortages, and Outages Again

The latest Pokémon 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 period has been tumultuous, with scalpers and store issues complicating the process for collectors.

This set is particularly coveted for several reasons. It heralds the return of Trainer's Pokémon cards, a nostalgic nod to classics like Brock's Sandslash and Rocket's Mewtwo. These cards ingeniously integrate beloved Trainers with their Pokémon, adding a unique flair to the game. Moreover, Destined Rivals focuses on Team Rocket from the first generation of Pokémon games, further heightening its appeal. 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 chaos was predictable. Fans attempting to purchase the Elite Trainer Box (ETB) from the Pokémon Center website faced significant hurdles, often unable to secure their orders. Scalpers quickly took advantage of the situation, listing the $54.99 ETB on platforms like eBay for several hundred dollars. Joe Merrick of Serebii expressed his frustration, highlighting how the Pokémon TCG has increasingly become a financial endeavor 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 scenario echoes previous releases like Prismatic Evolutions and Blooming Waters 151, which also faced shortages. The Pokémon Company has announced, via a FAQ on PokéBeach, that more inventory of the Destined Rivals ETB will be available later this year. However, alongside the scalping issue, some buyers have reported their ETB orders being cancelled, adding to the frustration.

The high demand and popularity of the Pokémon TCG are evident, but they are unfortunately overshadowing the joy of the hobby for many enthusiasts who simply want to enjoy opening packs and playing matches. While Pokémon TCG Pocket offers a digital alternative, the challenges of physical scarcity remain a significant hurdle. Visiting your local store's card aisle will likely reveal the difficulty of securing these much-anticipated packs. As the excitement around these releases continues, it's hoped that solutions to these issues will soon emerge.