Scalpers invade Pokémon World Championships merch store after ruining McDonald's card promotion

The focus of the Pokémon World Championships should be on battles between talented competitors. Sadly, in recent years, the event has become a haven for Pokémon scalpers, who target exclusive merchandise. The latest chaos involves more than cards, as everything from denim jackets to jukeboxes is being resold for large profits.

Although the Anaheim event began on August 15th, the Pokémon Center shop has been open since August 13th. Even with mandatory pre-registration and order limits, many fans are leaving disappointed. Kotaku highlighted some of the commotion, with hordes of buyers crammed into the pop-up store. In some cases, people found themselves face down on the floor with the police coming to their aid.

In one example, Pokémon scalpers managed to claim a commemorative jukebox for approximately $130. The memorabilia is now closing for at least $300-400 on eBay. The organized sellers have likely been preparing for the occasion for months, congregating at nearby hotels. Further angering other attendees, some individuals immediately advertise the goods on social media.

The Pokémon World Championships are another example of how the hobby has devolved into a quest for profits. Recently, a McDonald’s Japan promotion handed out toys and later Pokémon cards with Happy Meals.  However, scalpers turned the event into a nightmare, wasting food and denying collectors.

Younger fans have found it increasingly difficult to collect Pokémon cards and other gear. Whether it’s with Pokémon TCG sets or limited edition items, they often sell out immediately. As a result, paying exorbitant prices on marketplaces like eBay is the only option.

Even the anticipated Pokémon Legends: Z-A demo experienced unprecedented demand. Fortunately, Switch and Switch 2 gamers can at least read impressions from more fortunate players.