Pokemon TCG's Prismatic Evolutions: Addressing a High-Demand Shortage
The Pokemon Company is responding to significant stock shortages of its latest Pokemon Trading Card Game (TCG) expansion, Scarlet & Violet—Prismatic Evolutions. High demand, exceeding initial production, has led to limited availability at launch.
Increased Production Underway
The Pokemon Company acknowledges the inconvenience caused by the shortage and has confirmed it's working to increase production at maximum capacity to meet the unexpectedly high demand. While fans may experience delays in acquiring the set, replenishment efforts are underway.
Impact on US Retailers
The shortage disproportionately affects smaller US retailers. Reports indicate that distributors limited supplies to 10-15% for local stores, while larger chains like GameStop and Target received significantly larger allocations. This distribution strategy aimed to reach a wider range of retailers but resulted in limited stock at many local game stores.
The scarcity has already driven up prices on the secondary market, particularly for the Elite Trainer Box. However, increased supply from the Pokemon Company is expected to alleviate this issue.
Expansion Details and Release Schedule
Announced on November 1, 2024, and launched January 17, 2025, Prismatic Evolutions features Tera Pokemon ex, new illustration rare cards, and reprints of popular cards with updated artwork. Additional product releases are scheduled:
- February 7, 2025: Surprise Box and Mini Tin (featuring Eevee evolutions)
- March 7, 2025: Booster Bundle
- April 25, 2025: Pouch Special Collection
A digital version of the set was also released on January 16, 2025, on Pokemon TCG Live for iOS, Android, macOS, and Windows.
