Walmart Introduces Purchase Limits on Pokémon TCG Products

As a notable development, Walmart has started enforcing strict limits on how many Pokémon trading card items customers can buy during one shopping trip. This new rule was activated as of early November, based on an internal announcement shared with employees.

Addressing Scalper Activity

While not officially confirmed by Walmart, many believe this decision was prompted by a viral TikTok video that depicted a customer buying an enormous quantity of Pokémon card products at a checkout counter. The employee seen in the video received significant criticism for allowing the large-scale transaction to go through.

Policy Details and Potential Loopholes

The updated guideline states that shoppers may only buy a maximum of five trading card packs or boxes per store visit. Yet, the language has raised questions due to its vagueness. Precisely what qualifies as a "box" remains unclear, and whether someone could buy five high-value Elite Trainer Boxes is uncertain.

Moreover, since the limit is tied to each visit, theoretically an eager reseller could return repeatedly—buying five items each time—to accumulate significant stocks over several hours.

The Scalping Phenomenon

To most players, such efforts might seem excessive, yet for resellers, it's common behavior. In recent years, speculators have significantly added to widespread shortages of Pokémon cards, driven by the game's rising popularity.

Certain buyers aim to resell sealed items for a profit, whereas some hunt for rare cards that can fetch sky-high values. For instance, a specific Mega Evolution card from the latest set is currently selling for over $800 in online marketplaces.

Looking Ahead

This policy change coincides with the approaching launch of the Phantasmal Flames set, scheduled for November 14th. Pre-release sales already show chase cards like the Mega Charizard X Ex listed for nearly $1,500, emphasizing the ongoing demand and likely scalper target.

Hopefully, the retail limits will help reduce mass buying and increase access for genuine collectors and casual players alike.