Scalpers are always a big problem whenever a new product is launched. Whether it's phones, consoles, toys, or cards, scalpers tend to crush them before anyone else and sell them at a premium. The Pokemon TCG has suffered greatly from this, with new and rare cards only occasionally appearing.
You'd think scalpers would be limited to newly released products, but apparently scalpers are selling cards that haven't been released yet. As pointed out by Wargamer, there is an eBay listing for Mega Gengar Eks #240 for around $800. Although it is very expensive to start, the bigger problem is that it is not yet released.
Scalpers are selling pokemon cards that haven't been released yet
The ebay listing reveals that two such cards have already been sold, and only one remains in circulation. It is not known if someone managed to grab these cards before they were released, or if this was a good-natured scam. The former is a very embarrassing situation. If the scalpers can get their hands on the card before it starts, then no one is standing for us.
More listings for Pokemon TCG cards with booming prices can be found on eBay, but at least these have been released to the public.
Scalping has become an out of control problem, especially when it comes to the Pokemon TCG. Regular customers will be disappointed that they will not be able to find expansion packs and new releases in the store. During the sale, it is possible to limit the number of items that the customer can buy, it is very difficult to ensure that this happens.
Yahoo Auctions in Japan has offered a simple and effective way to block new games. Callers are prohibited from listing new games for a price higher than their retail value. If someone does this, the list will be deleted and their account will be banned. If eBay and more platforms put this on, scalpers everywhere would be blown away.
- Original publication date
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October 20, 1996
- Lawyer
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2
- Advice for the year
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6+
- Length of game
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Variable
- Franchise Name
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Pokemon
