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Pokemon TCG Sales Affected by Scarlet and Violet Launch

Pokemon TCG sales have been impacted by the release of Pokemon Scarlet and Violet in 2022, influenced by various factors like supply chain and economic challenges.
Pokemon TCG Sales Affected by Scarlet and Violet Launch

Highlights

  • Economic factors, oversupply of cards, and uninspiring designs in newer sets have contributed to the decline in Pokemon TCG sales.
  • Increased inflation rates and higher prices have dampened consumer interest in purchasing Pokemon TCG items.
  • Criticism of Pokemon Scarlet and Violet cards for reused artwork and subpar design decisions has played a part in the sales decrease.

Pokemon Scarlet and Violet had a lackluster impact on Pokemon TCG sales, which have seen a drop following the debut of the latest Pokemon games on the Nintendo Switch in 2022. Despite a record-breaking launch, Pokemon Scarlet and Violet received low ratings from fans, who were disappointed with Game Freak's latest monster-catching RPGs. The games faced criticism and review-bombing due to performance issues.

Simultaneously, the Pokemon TCG introduced Scarlet and Violet themed cards featuring creatures from the Paldea region, starting with sets centered around the new starter trio - Fuecoco, Quaxly, and Sprigatito. Throughout the year, more expansions were released, showcasing new Terastallized Pokemon and Legendaries from Pokemon Scarlet and Violet. However, these new cards did not have the desired impact on sales.

Recent conversations with retailers in various countries revealed a universal decline in Pokemon TCG sales since the launch of Pokemon Scarlet and Violet in late 2022. Australian site Trainer Hub reported a 50% drop in pre-orders for Pokemon cards. Sales of the 2023 Pokemon TCG Paldean Fates holiday set were 60% lower compared to the previous year's Crown Zenith. One store sold only 150 Scarlet and Violet card sets at launch, a significant decrease from the 300 Sword and Shield booster boxes sold previously.

Reasons Behind Pokemon TCG Sales Decline

Retailers attribute the decrease in Pokemon TCG sales to several factors, including economic challenges like rising inflation and reduced consumer spending. The Pokemon Company's decision to raise prices on most Pokemon TCG products in 2022, such as basic booster packs jumping from $3.99 to $4.49, has also deterred buyers.

Another significant factor is the oversaturation of cards in the market, leading to a surplus that discourages scalpers from investing in rare cards. This surplus has devalued rare cards, diminishing the appeal for collectors to purchase products with limited potential returns.

Moreover, criticism of Pokemon Scarlet and Violet cards for unoriginal artwork and poor design choices has turned away fans. Retailers have labeled recent sets as unimpressive and uninspired, further contributing to the decline in Pokemon TCG sales over recent years.

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