Pokémon TCG Launch Faces Scalping, Shortages, and Outages Again

The latest Pokémon TCG set, Scarlet & Violet - Destined Rivals, has been fully unveiled and pre-orders have already kicked off. If you're a seasoned collector, the chaotic launch window won't come as a surprise, as scalpers and store issues are reportedly already affecting the new set's rollout.

Unveiled on March 24, Scarlet & Violet - Destined Rivals is slated for release starting May 30, 2025. Several elements make this set highly sought-after. Notably, it marks the return of Trainer's Pokémon cards, reminiscent of vintage favorites like Brock's Sandslash or Rocket's Mewtwo. This revival is a thrilling development for fans who fondly remember these unique cards that blend beloved Trainers with their Pokémon. Moreover, Destined Rivals focuses on Team Rocket, the iconic villainous group from the first generation of Pokémon, further fueling its popularity. Much like the earlier Prismatic Evolutions set centered around Eevee-lutions, Destined Rivals is poised to become a fan favorite.

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

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When pre-orders opened, the expected chaos ensued. Fans attempting to secure an Elite Trainer Box (ETB) from the Pokémon Center website faced significant hurdles, often left unable to complete their purchase. Elite Trainer Boxes, which include a themed assortment of packs and accessories, are popular among collectors eager to dive into new sets.

As anticipated, scalpers quickly listed their pre-orders on platforms like eBay, with some ETBs fetching prices far above the usual $54.99. This frenzy was highlighted by Serebii's Joe Merrick, who shared his own frustrating experience of waiting hours in a queue only to see the set treated more as an investment than a hobby. Merrick expressed his disappointment, stating, "I truly hate this. The way almost all Pokémon 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."

Unfortunately, this situation is not new. Previous sets like Prismatic Evolutions and Blooming Waters 151 also faced similar shortages and quick sell-outs. The Pokémon Company has acknowledged the issue, stating via a FAQ on PokéBeach that more inventory of the Destined Rivals ETB will be available later in the year.

Adding to the frustration, some collectors have reported cancellations of their ETB orders. The overwhelming demand and popularity of the Pokémon TCG have clearly intensified, yet these challenges are tarnishing the experience for many who simply wish to enjoy the hobby. While Pokémon TCG Pocket offers a virtual alternative to physical scarcity, 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 highly anticipated releases like Destined Rivals. Here's hoping for swift solutions to these ongoing challenges.