The latest Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) set, Scarlet & Violet - Destined Rivals, was fully unveiled on March 24 and is set to launch on May 30, 2025. As expected, the pre-order phase has been tumultuous, with scalpers and website issues causing significant frustration among fans. This set is particularly coveted due to the return of Trainer's Pokémon cards, reminiscent of classics like Brock's Sandslash or Rocket's Mewtwo. These cards creatively integrate beloved Trainers into the Pokémon universe, adding a nostalgic charm. Furthermore, the set focuses on Team Rocket, adding to its appeal and echoing the popularity of earlier sets like Prismatic Evolutions with its Eevee-lutions.
Pokémon TCG: Scarlet & Violet - Destined Rivals Pokémon Center Elite Trainer Box Images
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When pre-orders opened, the Pokémon Center website struggled to keep up with demand, leaving many fans unable to purchase the highly sought-after Elite Trainer Box (ETB). Scalpers quickly took advantage, listing these boxes on eBay for several hundred dollars, far above the usual $54.99 price tag. Joe Merrick of Serebii expressed his frustration on social media, lamenting the shift in focus from enjoying the game to treating it as a financial investment.
This scenario mirrors the challenges faced during the releases of Prismatic Evolutions and Blooming Waters 151, where shortages and quick sell-outs were common. The Pokémon Company has announced that more inventory of the Destined Rivals ETB will be available later in the year, according to a FAQ on PokéBeach. Despite this, some fans have reported their pre-orders being cancelled, adding to the overall discontent.
The high demand and popularity of the Pokémon TCG continue to drive the hobby, yet the scalping and supply issues are overshadowing the joy of collecting and playing. While Pokémon TCG Pocket offers a digital alternative, many enthusiasts are frustrated by the difficulty in obtaining physical cards. A visit to any local store's card aisle will likely reveal the struggle to find packs, especially for such exciting releases. It's hoped that solutions will emerge soon to alleviate these ongoing issues.
