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 now live, but the launch window has been marred by familiar issues. Scalpers and website troubles have already started to impact the excitement around this much-anticipated set.

Unveiled on March 24, **Scarlet & Violet - Destined Rivals** is set to officially launch on May 30, 2025. Several elements make this set particularly sought after. It heralds the return of Trainer's Pokémon cards, a nostalgic nod for fans who fondly remember cards like Brock's Sandslash or Rocket's Mewtwo. This archetype, which integrates beloved Trainers directly into the gameplay, is a major draw. Additionally, the set focuses on Team Rocket, the iconic villainous faction from the first generation of Pokémon, further adding to its allure. Just like the earlier Prismatic Evolutions set with its Eevee-lutions, **Destined Rivals** promises to be a fan favorite.

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

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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 collectors eager to delve into the new set. Scalpers quickly capitalized on the situation, listing these ETBs on platforms like eBay for significantly inflated prices, with some listings reaching several hundred dollars compared to the usual $54.99 price tag.

Serebii's Joe Merrick voiced the frustration many feel, saying, "I truly hate this. 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 sentiment echoes the ongoing issues faced by the community, as seen with previous sets like Prismatic Evolutions and Blooming Waters 151.

Despite the scalping issues, The Pokémon Company (TPC) has assured fans that more inventory of the **Destined Rivals** ETB will be available later in the year, according to a FAQ posted on PokéBeach. However, some fans have reported their ETB orders being cancelled, highlighting the intense demand and the challenges in meeting it.

While **Pokémon TCG Pocket** offers a digital alternative to these physical shortages, the frustration for those who prefer the tangible experience of opening packs and playing with physical cards is palpable. A visit to any local store's card aisle will likely reveal the difficulty in securing packs of the latest sets. As these releases continue to excite the community, it's hoped that solutions will be found to mitigate these ongoing issues and preserve the joy of the hobby.