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. However, the pre-order period has been fraught with challenges, including scalpers and store issues that have been reported by collectors and enthusiasts alike.

This set is particularly coveted for several reasons. Firstly, it heralds the return of Trainer's Pokémon cards, reminiscent of classics like Brock's Sandslash and Rocket's Mewtwo, which are beloved by long-time fans. These cards ingeniously integrate popular Trainers with their Pokémon, adding a unique flavor to the game. Additionally, Destined Rivals focuses on Team Rocket, the iconic villainous team from the first generation of Pokémon, making it a highly anticipated release much like the earlier Prismatic Evolutions set with its Eevee evolutions.

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

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When pre-orders for the Elite Trainer Box (ETB) opened, fans encountered significant hurdles. Many struggled to access the Pokémon Center website, resulting in frustration as they were unable to secure their orders. Scalpers quickly took advantage of the situation, listing the typically $54.99 ETB on eBay for several hundred dollars. This has led to widespread disappointment, with enthusiasts like Joe Merrick of Serebii voicing their discontent over the commercialization of the Pokémon TCG.

"I truly hate this," Merrick expressed. "The way almost all Pokemon 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."

This situation mirrors past releases such as Prismatic Evolutions and the Blooming Waters 151 box, which also faced rapid sell-outs and shortages. The Pokémon Company has acknowledged the issue, indicating via an FAQ on PokéBeach that more inventory of the Destined Rivals ETB will be available later in the year.

Compounding the issue, some customers have reported their ETB orders being cancelled. The high demand and popularity of the Pokémon TCG are evident, yet these challenges are overshadowing the enjoyment of the hobby for many who simply want to open packs and engage in gameplay.

While Pokémon TCG Pocket offers a digital alternative, the frustrations of physical scarcity remain significant. A visit to your local store's card aisle will likely illustrate the difficulty in acquiring packs. It's particularly disheartening given the excitement surrounding these releases. Hopefully, solutions will be implemented soon to ease these challenges.