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, with its launch scheduled for May 30, 2025. As pre-orders have begun, the release has not been without its challenges, with reports of scalpers and store issues already surfacing.

Destined Rivals is generating significant excitement among collectors for several reasons. Notably, it marks the return of Trainer's Pokémon cards, a beloved feature from the vintage era that includes iconic cards like Brock's Sandslash and Rocket's Mewtwo. These cards integrate beloved Trainers directly into the gameplay in unique and exciting ways. Additionally, the set is themed around Team Rocket, the notorious villains from Pokémon's first generation, adding to its allure. Much like the Prismatic Evolutions set earlier this year, which focused on Eevee evolutions, Destined Rivals is poised to be a highly sought-after release.

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

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When pre-orders opened, frustration quickly mounted among fans attempting to purchase the Pokémon Center Elite Trainer Box (ETB), a popular product that includes card packs and additional items. Many were unable to access the Pokémon Center website, finding themselves stuck in long queues.

Scalpers wasted no time, listing the typically $54.99 ETB on online marketplaces like eBay for several hundred dollars. This practice drew sharp criticism from Serebii's Joe Merrick, who expressed his dismay at the commercialization and speculative nature that has overtaken the Pokémon TCG community. "I truly hate this," Merrick stated, lamenting the shift from hobby to investment and the practice of flipping cards for profit.

Unfortunately, this scenario is not unique to Destined Rivals. Previous sets like Prismatic Evolutions and the Blooming Waters 151 box experienced similar shortages and rapid sell-outs. The Pokémon Company (TPC) has acknowledged the issue, stating in an FAQ (via PokéBeach) that more inventory of the Destined Rivals ETB will be available later in the year.

Adding to the frustration, some fans have reported their ETB orders being cancelled. The high demand and popularity of the Pokémon TCG are evident, but they are also creating challenges for those who simply want to enjoy the hobby. While Pokémon TCG Pocket offers a digital alternative, the struggle to obtain physical cards remains a significant issue. A visit to your local store's card aisle likely reveals the difficulty in finding packs, especially during such highly anticipated releases. Hopefully, solutions will emerge to address these ongoing challenges.