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 are already underway. For seasoned collectors, the launch window has been predictably chaotic, with reports of scalpers and store issues affecting the new set's availability.

Unveiled on March 24, Scarlet & Violet - Destined Rivals is set to officially launch on May 30, 2025. This set is particularly sought-after for a few reasons. It marks the return of Trainer's Pokémon cards, a beloved archetype that ties iconic Trainers like Brock and members of Team Rocket to their Pokémon. Fans of vintage cards like Brock's Sandslash or Rocket's Mewtwo will appreciate this nostalgic return. Additionally, the set centers around Team Rocket, the iconic villains from Pokémon's first generation, adding to its appeal. Much like the popular Prismatic Evolutions set earlier this year, Destined Rivals is poised to be a fan favorite.

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

When pre-orders opened, the Pokémon Center website was overwhelmed, leaving many fans unable to secure an Elite Trainer Box (ETB), a popular choice for diving 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 its usual $54.99 price tag. Joe Merrick of Serebii shared his frustration, highlighting how the Pokémon TCG has shifted towards a financial focus, with many treating it as an investment rather than a hobby.

This scenario is unfortunately common, as seen with previous sets like Prismatic Evolutions and Blooming Waters 151. The Pokémon Company has acknowledged the issue, stating that more inventory of the Destined Rivals ETB will be available later this year, according to a FAQ on PokéBeach. Despite these assurances, some buyers have reported their ETB orders being cancelled, adding to the frustration of those simply wanting to enjoy the hobby.

While Pokémon TCG Pocket offers a virtual alternative to physical scarcity, the challenges in obtaining physical cards remain a significant concern for enthusiasts. A visit to your local store's card aisle will likely reveal the difficulty in finding packs. These exciting set releases are marred by the ongoing issues, and fans hope for swift solutions to improve the experience.