The latest Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) set, Scarlet & Violet - Destined Rivals, has been fully unveiled and pre-orders are now open. If you're a seasoned collector, the chaotic launch might not come as a surprise, as scalpers and store issues are already affecting the new set's availability.

Officially revealed on March 24, Scarlet & Violet - Destined Rivals is set to hit the shelves on May 30, 2025. This set is particularly coveted for several reasons. It brings back the much-loved Trainer's Pokémon cards, reminiscent of classics like Brock's Sandslash and Rocket's Mewtwo. These cards cleverly integrate beloved Trainers with their Pokémon, adding a nostalgic charm. Moreover, Destined Rivals focuses on Team Rocket, the iconic villainous faction from the first generation of Pokémon games, which adds to its appeal. Much like the popular Prismatic Evolutions set earlier this year, 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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As soon as pre-orders opened, chaos ensued. Fans trying to access the Pokémon Center website to purchase the Elite Trainer Box (ETB), a popular choice for diving into a new set, found themselves unable to complete their transactions. Unsurprisingly, scalpers quickly capitalized on the situation, listing ETB pre-orders on online marketplaces like eBay at prices soaring into the hundreds of dollars, far above the usual $54.99 price tag. Serebii's Joe Merrick shared his frustration, detailing his long wait in queue only to face the financialization of the hobby.

"I truly hate this," Merrick wrote. "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."

This scenario echoes past experiences with sets like Prismatic Evolutions and the Blooming Waters 151 box, which also faced shortages. The Pokémon Company has acknowledged the issue, stating in an FAQ (via PokéBeach) that more inventory of the Destined Rivals ETB will be available later this year. However, even amidst these assurances, some buyers are reporting cancellations of their ETB orders, highlighting the intense demand and the challenges it poses to genuine hobbyists.

While Pokémon TCG Pocket offers a digital alternative to mitigate the issues of physical scarcity, the frustration for those who enjoy the tangible aspect of the hobby remains palpable. A visit to your local store's card aisle will likely reveal the struggle of trying to snag some packs. These exciting releases are unfortunately overshadowed by the ongoing challenges. Hopefully, solutions will emerge soon to restore the joy of collecting and playing the Pokémon TCG.