The latest Pokémon TCG set, *Scarlet & Violet - Destined Rivals*, has been fully unveiled and pre-orders are already in full swing. If you're a seasoned collector, the chaotic launch window won't come as a shock, with reports of scalpers and store issues already affecting the new set.
Unveiled on March 24, *Scarlet & Violet - Destined Rivals* is set to hit the shelves starting May 30, 2025. Several factors contribute to its high demand. Notably, it marks the return of Trainer's Pokémon cards, a beloved archetype reminiscent of classics like Brock's Sandslash or Rocket's Mewtwo. These cards creatively integrate iconic Trainers into the gameplay, sparking nostalgia and excitement among fans. Furthermore, the set revolves around Team Rocket, the infamous villains from Pokémon's first generation, adding to its allure. Much like the popular *Prismatic Evolutions* set earlier this year, *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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When pre-orders opened, it was no surprise that frustration quickly mounted. Fans trying to access the Pokémon Center website to purchase an Elite Trainer Box (ETB), a popular choice for diving into a new set, found themselves locked out. Unsurprisingly, scalpers wasted no time in listing their pre-ordered ETBs on auction sites like eBay, with prices soaring to several hundred dollars for a box that typically retails at $54.99. Joe Merrick of Serebii captured the sentiment well, sharing his own hours-long struggle to secure a *Destined Rivals* ETB.
"I truly hate this," Merrick expressed. "The way almost all Pokémon TCG content has shifted to financial. The way that people just treat it as an investment. The way people just want to flip it. It's disgusting. Shame on all involved."
Unfortunately, this is a recurring issue. Sets like *Prismatic Evolutions* and the *Blooming Waters 151* box also faced shortages and quick sell-outs. The Pokémon Company has already announced in an online FAQ (via PokéBeach) that more inventory of the *Destined Rivals* ETB will be available later this year. Yet, alongside scalping problems, some buyers are reporting cancellations of their ETB orders. The high demand and popularity of the Pokémon TCG are undeniable, but they are also overshadowing the joy of the hobby for many who simply want to open packs and enjoy the game.
While *Pokémon TCG Pocket* offers a digital alternative to physical scarcity, the frustration for those wishing to engage in the traditional hobby is palpable. A visit to your local store's card aisle will likely reveal the challenges of finding packs. These exciting releases are only making the situation more frustrating. Here's hoping for swift solutions to ease the strain on the community.
