Prismatic Evolutions Shortage Prompts Pokemon TCG to Rush to Print More

The Pokémon Company is addressing a significant shortage of its latest Pokémon TCG expansion, Scarlet & Violet—Prismatic Evolutions. This article details the reasons behind the shortage and the company's response.

Pokémon TCG's Latest Expansion Faces Shortage Due to High Demand

Pokémon Company Increases Production to Meet Demand

Following reports of widespread shortages, the Pokémon Company confirmed on January 16, 2025, that it is increasing production of Prismatic Evolutions to meet unexpectedly high demand. A spokesperson 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 to acknowledge this." While fans may experience delays, the company assures them it is working diligently to resolve the issue.

High Demand Impacts US Retail Stores

The shortage was first highlighted on January 4, 2025, by the Pokémon TCG fan website, PokeBeach. The report detailed the impact on smaller US retail stores, which faced significantly limited allocations compared to larger chains like GameStop and Target. Deguire, owner of Player 1 Services, a major Pokémon store in Maryland, explained, "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 responded by limiting supplies to local retailers by 10% to 15%, spreading the limited stock across many stores to retain accounts. This resulted in significantly lower availability for smaller, local game stores.

This limited supply has already led to price inflation on the secondary market. Reports indicate that the yet-to-be-released Elite Trainer Box is already selling for $127 USD, significantly above its $55 USD retail price. However, it's anticipated that increased stock from the Pokémon Company may alleviate this price gouging.

Scarlet & Violet—Prismatic Evolutions Announcement and Release Schedule

Initially announced on November 1, 2024, Scarlet & Violet—Prismatic Evolutions launched on January 17, 2025. The set features Tera Pokémon ex, new special illustration rare cards, ultra rare Supporter cards, and reprints of popular cards with new artwork. Examples include Teal Mask Ogerpon ex, illustrated by Yukihiro Tada, and Roaring Moon ex by Shinji Kanda.

Additional products, including a Surprise Box and Mini Tin featuring Eevee and its evolutions, launched on February 7, 2025. Further releases, a Booster Bundle and Pouch Special Collection, are scheduled for March 7 and April 25, 2025, respectively. A digital version of the set was also made available in Pokémon TCG Live on January 16, 2025, allowing players to experience the new cards before the physical release.