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

This set is particularly coveted for several reasons. It marks the return of Trainer's Pokémon cards, a nostalgic feature for long-time fans 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, Destined Rivals focuses on Team Rocket, the iconic villainous team from the first generation of Pokémon games, which adds to its appeal. Much like the earlier Prismatic Evolutions set with its 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 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 new; 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 in an FAQ (via PokéBeach) that more inventory of the Destined Rivals ETB will be available later in the year. However, some fans have reported their ETB orders being cancelled, adding to the frustration.

While Pokémon TCG Pocket offers a digital alternative to the physical card scarcity, the situation remains challenging for those who prefer the traditional card game experience. Visiting local stores often reveals the difficulty in finding packs, especially during highly anticipated releases like Destined Rivals. Hopefully, solutions will emerge soon to alleviate these issues and restore the joy of collecting and playing for fans.