Prismatic Evolutions Shortage Prompts Pokemon TCG to Rush to Print More

High Demand for Pokémon TCG's Prismatic Evolutions Prompts Reprints

The Pokémon Company is responding to unexpectedly high demand for its latest Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) expansion, Scarlet & Violet—Prismatic Evolutions, by initiating a large-scale reprint. This follows reports of significant stock shortages impacting retailers, particularly smaller, independent stores across the US.

Addressing the Shortage:

The Pokémon Company acknowledged the difficulties some fans faced acquiring Prismatic Evolutions products upon their January 17, 2025 release. A spokesperson confirmed they are working at maximum capacity to increase production and alleviate the shortage as quickly as possible.

Impact on Retailers:

Reports from websites like PokeBeach, surfacing as early as January 4, 2025, highlighted the uneven distribution of the expansion. Smaller stores faced significantly reduced allocations (10-15%), while larger retailers like GameStop and Target secured a larger share. This disparity, according to Deguire of Player 1 Services (a major Maryland Pokémon store), is partly due to an influx of orders from retailers who don't typically stock Pokémon TCG products. This limited supply has led to price gouging on secondary markets, with products like the Elite Trainer Box already commanding significantly higher prices than their retail value.

Expansion Details and Future Releases:

Initially announced on November 1, 2024, Prismatic Evolutions features Tera Pokémon ex, new special illustration rare cards, and reprints of popular cards with updated artwork. Further releases are planned for February 7th (Surprise Box and Mini Tin), March 7th (Booster Bundle), and April 25th (Pouch Special Collection), all featuring Eevee and its evolutions. A digital version of the set launched on Pokémon TCG Live on January 16, 2025.

While the current shortage is a setback, the Pokémon Company's commitment to reprinting the set offers reassurance to fans eager to collect the new cards. The situation underscores the intense popularity of the Pokémon TCG and the challenges of meeting unexpectedly high demand.