The latest addition to the Pokémon Trading Card Game, Scarlet & Violet - Destined Rivals, was fully unveiled on March 24, and pre-orders are now in full swing. Set to launch on May 30, 2025, this new set has already stirred up quite the storm, with scalpers and store issues adding to the chaos of its launch.
Destined Rivals is particularly exciting for a few reasons. It brings back the beloved Trainer's Pokémon cards, reminiscent of classics like Brock's Sandslash and Rocket's Mewtwo. These cards are a unique way of integrating favorite Trainers into the Pokémon universe, making them highly anticipated. Additionally, the set revolves around the iconic Team Rocket from Pokémon's first generation, which adds to its allure and makes it as eagerly awaited as the recent Prismatic Evolutions set with its Eevee-lutions.
Pokémon TCG: Scarlet & Violet - Destined Rivals Pokémon Center Elite Trainer Box Images
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As pre-orders commenced, the rush to secure the Elite Trainer Box (ETB) from the Pokémon Center led to widespread frustration. Many fans found themselves stuck in lengthy queues, unable to purchase this prized box that typically includes card packs and other collectibles. The situation was exacerbated by scalpers who quickly listed ETBs on eBay for hundreds of dollars, a stark contrast to the usual $54.99 price tag.
Joe Merrick of Serebii expressed his dismay at the situation, highlighting how the Pokémon TCG has increasingly become a financial investment rather than a hobby. "I truly hate this," he wrote. "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."
Unfortunately, this isn't a new problem. Previous sets like Prismatic Evolutions and Blooming Waters 151 also faced similar issues with quick sell-outs and scalping. The Pokémon Company has acknowledged the situation, stating that more inventory of the Destined Rivals ETB will be available later this year, according to a FAQ posted on PokéBeach.
Adding to the woes, some fans are reporting cancellations of their ETB orders, further frustrating those who simply want to enjoy the game. The demand for Pokémon TCG is undeniably high, yet it's impacting the enjoyment of the hobby for many. While digital alternatives like Pokémon TCG Pocket exist, the struggle to acquire physical cards remains a significant challenge. Visiting local stores reveals the scarcity of packs, making the situation even more disheartening, especially with the excitement surrounding the new releases. Hopefully, solutions will emerge to mitigate these issues soon.
