The latest Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) set, Scarlet & Violet - Destined Rivals, has been fully unveiled and pre-orders have already begun. As is often the case with highly anticipated releases, the launch window has been tumultuous, marked by challenges such as scalpers and issues with online stores.

Officially revealed on March 24, the set is scheduled to hit the shelves on May 30, 2025. Several factors contribute to the heightened anticipation for this set. It marks the nostalgic return of Trainer's Pokémon cards, a beloved feature from the game's earlier days. Fans who fondly remember classics like Brock's Sandslash or Rocket's Mewtwo will be thrilled to see this archetype make a comeback. These cards creatively integrate iconic Trainers with their Pokémon, adding a unique flair to the collection. Moreover, Destined Rivals revolves around the iconic Team Rocket, adding to its allure and echoing the popularity seen with sets like Prismatic Evolutions and its Eevee evolutions earlier in the year.

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

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When pre-orders opened, the chaos was predictable. Fans eager to purchase the Elite Trainer Box (ETB), a popular choice filled with card packs and accessories, found themselves struggling to access the Pokémon Center website. Scalpers swiftly took advantage, listing pre-orders on platforms like eBay at exorbitant prices, far above the standard $54.99 price tag. Joe Merrick of Serebii expressed his frustration, highlighting the shift of the Pokémon TCG towards a financial commodity rather than a hobby.

This scenario is unfortunately not new; previous sets like Prismatic Evolutions and Blooming Waters 151 also faced similar supply issues. The Pokémon Company has acknowledged the situation and stated that additional inventory of the Destined Rivals ETB will be available later in the year, according to PokéBeach. Despite these assurances, some customers are already reporting cancellations of their ETB orders, exacerbating the frustration felt by many in the community.

While Pokémon TCG Pocket provides a digital alternative to these physical scarcity issues, the desire to enjoy the traditional card game remains strong. Visiting a local store's card aisle can be a disheartening experience for those simply looking to enjoy the hobby. These setbacks are particularly frustrating given the excitement surrounding recent releases. Hopefully, solutions will be implemented soon to improve the situation for enthusiasts.