Pokémon TCG Launch Hit by Scalping, Shortages Again

The newest Pokémon TCG expansion, Destined Rivals, has been officially revealed with pre-orders now available. Veteran collectors won't be shocked to hear the launch has faced typical challenges, from scalpers grabbing stock to retailer website crashes.

Announced on March 24, Scarlet & Violet - Destined Rivals arrives May 30, 2025 with several exciting features. The set brings back Trainer's Pokémon cards - nostalgic favorites like Brock's Sandslash and Rocket's Mewtwo that creatively combine iconic trainers with their signature Pokémon. Adding to the hype, the expansion focuses on Team Rocket, the original Pokémon villain organization. Following the success of Prismatic Evolutions earlier this year, Destined Rivals appears poised to become another fan-favorite release.

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

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The Elite Trainer Box pre-order launch proved predictably chaotic. Fans attempting to purchase these premium collections - which include booster packs and exclusive accessories - encountered overwhelmed Pokémon Center servers and lengthy virtual queues.

Almost immediately, scalpers flooded auction sites with ETB listings priced hundreds above the $54.99 MSRP. Pokémon community figure Joe Merrick of Serebii perfectly captured collectors' frustrations after waiting hours unsuccessfully: "The financialization of Pokémon TCG is disgusting. Treating cards purely as investments rather than collectibles shames our community."

This reflects ongoing TCG availability issues. Previous sets like Prismatic Evolutions and Blooming Waters 151 faced similar shortages, though The Pokémon Company confirms (via PokéBeach) additional Destined Rivals ETB stock will arrive later this year.

Compounding problems, legitimate orders face cancellations while secondary market prices soar. The game's surging popularity creates barriers for casual players and collectors alike.

While digital alternatives like Pokémon TCG Pocket offer workarounds, physical collectors deserve better access. Any visit to local retailers reveals bare shelves where booster packs should be. With exciting releases being ruined by scarcity and speculation, the community hopes for meaningful solutions soon.