The latest Pokémon TCG set, Scarlet & Violet - Destined Rivals, was fully unveiled on March 24, with pre-orders now open ahead of its launch on May 30, 2025. This set has sparked significant excitement among collectors, but its launch has been marred by the usual suspects: scalpers and store issues.
Destined Rivals stands out for several reasons. It brings back the beloved Trainer's Pokémon cards, reminiscent of classics like Brock's Sandslash and Rocket's Mewtwo. These cards offer a unique way to integrate iconic Trainers into the game. Additionally, the set focuses on Team Rocket, tapping into nostalgia for the original Pokémon generation. Much like the earlier Prismatic Evolutions set, which celebrated Eevee-lutions, Destined Rivals is poised to become a fan favorite.
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) went live, the Pokémon Center website struggled to keep up with demand, leaving many fans unable to secure their orders. Scalpers quickly capitalized on the situation, listing pre-orders on eBay for several hundred dollars, far above the usual $54.99 price tag. Joe Merrick of Serebii expressed his frustration, highlighting the shift towards treating Pokémon TCG as a financial investment rather than a hobby.
This issue is not new; similar problems were seen with the Prismatic Evolutions and Blooming Waters 151 sets. The Pokémon Company has acknowledged the situation, stating that more inventory of the Destined Rivals ETB will be available later this year. However, some fans have reported their orders being cancelled, adding to the frustration.
While Pokémon TCG Pocket offers a digital alternative, the challenges of physical scarcity continue to impact the hobby. Visiting local stores often reveals the difficulty in finding packs. Despite the excitement surrounding these releases, the ongoing issues with scalping and supply are dampening the experience for many enthusiasts. Hopefully, solutions will be found soon to address these persistent problems.
