The Pokémon TCG Classic Set Craze

Posted on October 17, 2023

In the ever-evolving world of collectibles, where the thrill of finding a rare gem mingles with the excitement of nostalgia, Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) enthusiasts have recently been on a rollercoaster ride. The Pokémon Company’s announcement of a reprint of iconic cards from the inception of the Pokémon TCG has sent waves throughout the community, raising both anticipation and concerns. Here, we dive into the details surrounding the highly-anticipated Pokémon TCG Classic Set and the frenzy it has stirred.

Pokémon Scarlet & Violet 151

The Reprint Announcement

The Pokémon Company made headlines when it announced the reprint of iconic cards from the early days of the Pokémon TCG. These beloved cards are packaged in a $400 board game set that promises a wave of nostalgia and collectors’ delight. The set, slated for release on November 17, includes highly sought-after cards like Lugia ex, Ho-Oh ex, Suicune ex, and even a revamped version of Mr. Mime.

Sold Out in the Blink of an Eye

Pre-orders for the Pokémon TCG Classic Set vanished almost as quickly as they appeared. Within the first hour of becoming available, eager collectors and fans swarmed the Pokémon Center and GameStop websites, leaving the virtual shelves empty. It’s an indicator of the tremendous excitement surrounding the set and the enduring love for these classic cards.

The Scalper Situation

However, where there’s high demand, there’s often an unfortunate side effect – scalpers. These opportunistic individuals have already begun attempting to resell the Pokémon TCG Classic Set at inflated prices on platforms like eBay. This practice has sparked controversy and drawn the ire of many collectors.

Nostalgia versus Reality

The Pokémon Trading Card Game Classic set is a double-edged sword for collectors. While it certainly targets nostalgia, allowing fans to hold physical reprints of cards that might have held a cherished place in their childhood collections, it’s important to note that the decks in this set are not tournament legal. This means they cannot be used in competitive play, which may disappoint those who were hoping to relive their childhood victories on the tournament stage.

Original Pokémon Cards versus the Set

Collectors have pointed out an intriguing aspect of this reprint frenzy. Some original cards can be purchased for less than the cost of the entire Pokémon TCG Classic Set. This raises questions about the economic wisdom of acquiring this particular product, as original cards can still be affordable.


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The Pokémon Company’s Response

In response to the scarcity of the Pokémon TCG Classic Set, The Pokémon Company acknowledged the stock shortages. They attributed this to the global rise in freight costs, which have pushed up the set’s price, particularly outside of Japan. This rationale provides some context for the high cost of this eagerly awaited collection.

Looking Ahead

While pre-orders for the Pokémon TCG Classic Set are currently sold out on major platforms, there is a glimmer of hope for collectors who missed out. Some stores may be reserving stock for additional pre-order waves, and there’s the possibility that pre-orders may become available at other retailers in the future. In the meantime, collectors can savor the recent release of the Scarlet and Violet-era Pokémon 151 set, which launched on September 22, offering a different avenue to indulge in their collecting passions.


Published on October 17, 2023

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