Pokemon TCG's Prismatic Evolutions: High Demand Leads to Reprints
The Pokemon Company is addressing a significant shortage of its latest Pokemon Trading Card Game (TCG) expansion, Scarlet & Violet—Prismatic Evolutions, due to unexpectedly high demand. This shortage, first reported by PokeBeach on January 4th, 2025, and subsequently acknowledged by the Pokemon Company on January 16th, 2025 (via IGN), has left many fans struggling to find the new cards.
The Pokemon Company confirmed they are working at maximum capacity to produce more cards to meet the demand. While fans may experience delays, this commitment offers some reassurance.
The impact on smaller US retailers has been particularly severe. Distributors, overwhelmed by orders from both regular and new Pokemon TCG stockists, limited allocations to smaller stores by 10-15%, leaving them with significantly less stock than larger chains like GameStop and Target. This has led to price gouging on the secondary market, with products like the Elite Trainer Box already selling for $127 (retail price: $55). However, it's anticipated that increased supply will eventually curb these inflated prices.
The Scarlet & Violet—Prismatic Evolutions expansion, announced November 1st, 2024, and launched January 17th, 2025, features highly sought-after cards including Tera Pokemon ex, new special illustration rares, and ultra rare Supporter cards. The set also includes reprints of popular cards with brand-new artwork, such as Teal Mask Ogerpon ex and Roaring Moon ex.
Further releases are planned, including a Surprise Box and Mini Tin on February 7th, 2025, featuring Eevee and its evolutions as Stellar Tera Pokemon ex, a Booster Bundle on March 7th, and a Pouch Special Collection on April 25th, 2025. Players could also experience the set digitally via Pokemon TCG Live, available on January 16th, 2025.
