Pokémon TCG Launch Faces Scalping, Shortages, and Outages

The latest Pokémon TCG set, Scarlet & Violet - Destined Rivals, has been fully unveiled, and pre-orders are already in high demand. Launched on March 24 and set to hit stores on May 30, 2025, this set has captured the attention of collectors and players alike. If you're a seasoned collector, the tumultuous launch phase, marked by scalpers and store issues, might not come as a surprise.

Several factors contribute to the high anticipation surrounding Destined Rivals. Notably, it marks the return of Trainer's Pokémon cards, a nostalgic nod to classics like Brock's Sandslash and Rocket's Mewtwo. These cards creatively integrate beloved Trainers with their Pokémon, adding a unique layer of excitement. Furthermore, the set's focus on Team Rocket, the iconic antagonistic group from the first generation of Pokémon games, adds to its allure. Much like the Prismatic Evolutions set with its Eevee-lutions earlier in the year, 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 was overwhelmed, 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. Unsurprisingly, scalpers quickly took to online platforms like eBay, listing pre-orders of the Pokémon Center-specific ETB 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 situation echoes the challenges faced with previous sets like Prismatic Evolutions and Blooming Waters 151, where shortages and rapid sell-outs were common. 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 this year. However, even amidst these assurances, some buyers have reported their orders being cancelled, further exacerbating the frustration for those simply wanting to enjoy the hobby.

While Pokémon TCG Pocket offers a digital alternative to the physical scarcity, the struggle to obtain physical cards remains a significant hurdle for many enthusiasts. A visit to your local store's card aisle will likely reveal the difficulty in finding packs. These challenges are particularly disheartening given the excitement surrounding the new releases. Hopefully, solutions will emerge soon to alleviate these issues and restore the joy of collecting and playing the Pokémon TCG.