In a significant move, Walmart has begun implementing purchase restrictions on how many Pokémon trading card items customers can acquire during a single visit. This new rule was activated as of early November, based on an internal announcement shared with employees.
Although not formally announced by Walmart, numerous sources suggest this decision was influenced by a viral TikTok video that showed a customer purchasing a massive amount of Pokémon card products at a checkout counter. The store manager featured in the video received significant criticism for allowing the large-scale transaction to proceed.
The new restriction specifies that shoppers may only buy a maximum of five trading card packs or boxes each time they enter. However, the wording has sparked debate due to its lack of clarity. Precisely what qualifies as a "box" remains unclear, and whether someone could still purchase five high-value Elite Trainer Boxes is uncertain.
Additionally, because the restriction is tied to individual trips, theoretically a determined scalper could make multiple trips—buying five items each time—to gather large quantities over several hours.
To most players, such efforts might seem excessive, but for scalpers, it's common behavior. In recent years, scalpers have greatly contributed to frequent stockouts of Pokémon cards, driven by the TCG's growing fame.
Certain buyers aim to sell unopened products at a markup, while others hunt for valuable pulls that can fetch sky-high values. For instance, the Mega Lucario ex card from the latest set is currently selling at prices exceeding eight hundred dollars on various platforms.
The new rule aligns with the approaching launch of the latest Pokémon expansion, scheduled for November 14th. Early listings indicate chase cards like the Charizard mega evolution listed for around fifteen hundred dollars, highlighting the ongoing demand and likely scalper target.
Hopefully, the retail limits will help reduce mass buying and increase access for genuine collectors and everyday enthusiasts as well.
A seasoned gaming enthusiast with over a decade of experience in lottery analysis and casino reviews.
