Pokemon TCG's Prismatic Evolutions: High Demand Leads to 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. Initial reports of shortages emerged on January 4th, 2025, on the fan website PokeBeach, highlighting difficulties for smaller US retailers.

The Pokémon Company acknowledged the issue on January 16th, 2025, stating that high demand impacted initial availability. A spokesperson confirmed that they are working at maximum capacity to increase production and address the shortfall.

The scarcity particularly affected smaller US stores. According to Deguire, owner of Player 1 Services in Maryland, the influx of orders from stores not typically stocking Pokémon TCG products overwhelmed distributors. Allocations to smaller retailers were significantly reduced (10-15%), while larger chains like GameStop and Target received a larger share. This limited supply has already driven up prices on the secondary market, with the Elite Trainer Box reportedly selling for $127, significantly above its $55 retail price. However, this price inflation is expected to subside once the reprints reach the market.

Scarlet & Violet—Prismatic Evolutions, announced November 1st, 2024, with a January 17th, 2025 release date, features Tera Pokémon ex, new illustration rare cards, and ultra rare Supporter cards. The set also includes reprints of popular cards with new artwork. Additional products, including a Surprise Box, Mini Tin, Booster Bundle, and Pouch Special Collection, are scheduled for release throughout 2025. A digital version launched on Pokémon TCG Live on January 16th, 2025.

While fans face delays, the Pokémon Company's commitment to reprinting offers reassurance that the highly anticipated Prismatic Evolutions will eventually be widely available.