Pokemon TCG Rushes to Print More Due to Prismatic Evolutions Shortage

The Pokémon Company is actively addressing the stock shortage of the latest Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) expansion, Scarlet & Violet—Prismatic Evolutions. This article delves into the reasons behind the shortage and the steps being taken to resolve it.

High Demand Leads to Pokémon TCG Shortage

The Pokémon Company has confirmed the shortage of the Pokémon TCG's latest set, Prismatic Evolutions, following a report by IGN on January 16, 2025. A spokesperson from the company stated, "We’re aware that some fans may experience difficulties purchasing certain Pokémon Trading Card Game: Scarlet & Violet—Prismatic Evolutions products at launch due to high demand impacting availability. We understand this inconvenience can be disappointing for fans, and we are actively working to print more of the impacted Pokémon TCG products as quickly as possible and at maximum capacity."

This response offers reassurance to fans that The Pokémon Company is committed to resolving the stock issues as swiftly as possible.

Impact on Local US Stores

The shortage of the Prismatic Evolutions set has significantly affected local Pokémon stores in the US, as reported by the fan website PokeBeach on January 4, 2025. Deguire, owner of Player 1 Services in Maryland, noted, "I think a large part of the issue is that stores who do not normally order Pokémon are requesting to buy this set from distributors."

Distributors have limited the supply to local retailers by "10% to 15%," spreading the available stock thinly across more stores. This strategy aims to maintain a broader distribution network but leaves local stores struggling to meet demand. As a result, some editions of the Prismatic Evolutions set, such as the Elite Trainer Box, have seen price spikes on secondary markets, with prices reaching $127 USD compared to the retail price of $55 USD. However, increased production may help curb scalping and stabilize prices.

Scarlet & Violet—Prismatic Evolutions: A Closer Look

The Pokémon Company announced the Scarlet & Violet—Prismatic Evolutions expansion on November 1, 2024, with a launch date set for January 17, 2025. This set introduces exciting new cards, including Tera Pokémon ex, special illustration rare cards, and ultra rare Supporter cards.

On January 7, 2025, additional details were shared, revealing the inclusion of reprints of popular cards with new artwork, such as Teal Mask Ogerpon ex illustrated by Yukihiro Tada and Roaring Moon ex by Shinji Kanda.

Further editions of Prismatic Evolutions, including the Surprise Box and Mini Tin featuring Eevee and its evolutions as Stellar Tera Pokémon ex, are scheduled for release on February 7, 2025. Additional releases, such as the Booster Bundle and Pouch Special Collection, are planned for March 7 and April 25, 2025, respectively.

Fans eager to experience the new set can try it out on Pokémon TCG Live for iOS, Android, macOS, and Windows devices starting January 16, 2025, one day before the official release. This offers an excellent opportunity to test and update decks ahead of the launch.