The Pokémon Trading Card Game (Pokémon TCG) has seen an unprecedented surge in popularity, not just in Japan but across the globe. As collectors and players scramble to get their hands on the latest releases, the situation has become so dire that many are finding it nearly impossible to purchase English versions of the cards. This article delves into the current state of the Pokémon card market, particularly focusing on the ‘Journey Together’ set, and explores the implications of this booming demand.

Current Market Situation

• As of January 9, 2025, the English version of the ‘Journey Together’ set was made available for pre-order, but the site experienced immediate errors, leaving many unable to complete their purchases.
• Within just two hours, the set was sold out, indicating a massive demand that outstripped supply.
• All five countries where Pokémon Centers operate—United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand—have reported complete sellouts.

This overwhelming demand has led to a thriving secondary market, with prices skyrocketing on various platforms. For instance, Booster Boxes are being sold for approximately 26,000 yen, while Elite Trainer Boxes are priced around 8,000 yen, often with a 20% markup.

Resale Market Dynamics

The resale market for Pokémon cards has become increasingly competitive, with prices for Japanese versions often exceeding double or even triple their original retail prices. This has created a challenging environment for collectors and players alike, as they navigate the complexities of availability and pricing.

Future Prospects for English Versions

Looking ahead, there are a few avenues where collectors might still find English versions of Pokémon cards:

• Direct purchases from retailers that may offer international shipping options.
• Utilizing services to forward purchases from overseas warehouses.

Conclusion

The Pokémon card market is experiencing a phenomenon that is unprecedented in its history. With prices soaring and availability dwindling, both collectors and players are facing significant challenges. As we move further into 2025, it will be interesting to see how the market evolves and whether new strategies will emerge to meet the growing demand.