High Demand for Pokémon TCG's Prismatic Evolutions Leads to Reprints
The Pokémon Company is responding to significant shortages of its latest Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) expansion, Scarlet & Violet—Prismatic Evolutions, as reported by various sources including IGN on January 16, 2025. The unexpected high demand has resulted in limited availability at launch.
A Pokémon Company spokesperson acknowledged the issue, stating they are working at maximum capacity to increase production and address the supply shortage as quickly as possible. While fans may experience delays, the company assures them that efforts are underway to restore optimal stock levels.
Impact on Local Retailers:
The shortage particularly affects smaller, local US Pokémon TCG stores. PokeBeach, a dedicated fan website, reported on January 4, 2025, that these stores are facing significant supply constraints due to the unexpectedly high demand. According to Deguire, owner of Player 1 Services in Maryland, many stores not typically ordering Pokémon TCG products are now requesting Prismatic Evolutions, placing a strain on distributors.
Distributors have consequently limited supplies by 10-15% for local retailers, resulting in a disproportionate allocation to larger chains like GameStop and Target. This scarcity has already driven up prices on the secondary market, with the Elite Trainer Box, for example, selling for $127 USD instead of its $55 USD retail price. However, it's anticipated that increased supply will eventually stabilize prices.
Expansion Details and Release Schedule:
Announced on November 1, 2024, and launched on January 17, 2025, Scarlet & Violet—Prismatic Evolutions features Tera Pokémon ex, new special illustration rare cards, ultra-rare Supporter cards, and reprints of popular cards with new artwork. Notable additions include Teal Mask Ogerpon ex and Roaring Moon ex, with artwork by Yukihiro Tada and Shinji Kanda, respectively.
Additional product releases are planned: a Surprise Box and Mini Tin on February 7, 2025, featuring Eevee and its evolutions as Stellar Tera Pokémon ex; a Booster Bundle on March 7, 2025; and a Pouch Special Collection on April 25, 2025. A digital version of the set was also released on Pokémon TCG Live on January 16, 2025.
