The latest addition to the Pokémon Trading Card Game, *Scarlet & Violet - Destined Rivals*, has been fully unveiled and pre-orders have already begun. However, seasoned collectors won't be surprised to hear that the launch has been tumultuous, with scalpers and store issues complicating the process for eager fans.
Revealed on March 24, *Scarlet & Violet - Destined Rivals* is slated for release starting May 30, 2025. Several factors contribute to the high demand for this set. Notably, it brings back the Trainer's Pokémon cards, a nostalgic nod to classics like Brock's Sandslash and Rocket's Mewtwo. Fans of these vintage cards should take a moment to appreciate this revival. Additionally, the set focuses on Team Rocket, the iconic villainous group from Pokémon's first generation, adding to its allure. Much like the earlier *Prismatic Evolutions* set, which celebrated Eevee-lutions, *Destined Rivals* is poised to be a fan favorite.
Pokémon TCG: Scarlet & Violet - Destined Rivals Pokémon Center Elite Trainer Box Images
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As pre-orders commenced, the chaos was predictable. Fans attempting to purchase the Elite Trainer Box (ETB) from the Pokémon Center faced significant hurdles, often finding themselves unable to access the site. The ETB, a popular choice for those looking to delve into a new set with its themed packs and accessories, became a hot commodity.
Scalpers quickly took advantage of the situation, listing pre-orders of the Pokémon Center-specific ETB on online auction sites like eBay for several hundred dollars, far above its usual price of $54.99. Joe Merrick of Serebii expressed his frustration, highlighting the shift of the Pokémon TCG from a hobby to a financial investment. "I truly hate this," Merrick stated. "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 scenario is, unfortunately, not unique. The *Prismatic Evolutions* set faced similar shortages, and the *Blooming Waters 151* box sold out rapidly. The Pokémon Company has responded, noting in an FAQ on PokéBeach that more inventory of the *Destined Rivals* ETB will be available later this year. Despite these efforts, some buyers have reported their ETB orders being cancelled, adding to the frustration.
The high demand and popularity of the Pokémon TCG underscore the excitement around these releases, but they also highlight the challenges faced by collectors and players. While *Pokémon TCG Pocket* offers a digital alternative, the desire for physical cards remains strong. A visit to any local card aisle will likely reveal the difficulty in acquiring packs amidst such high demand. As fans eagerly await solutions, the hope is that future releases will be smoother and more accessible for all enthusiasts.
