🔗 Share this article Walmart Enforces Buying Restrictions on Pokémon TCG Products 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 officially takes effect starting November 5th, based on an internal announcement shared with employees. Tackling Reseller Problems Although not formally announced by Walmart, numerous sources suggest this decision was influenced by a viral TikTok video that showed a customer buying an enormous quantity of Pokémon card items at a checkout counter. The store manager featured in the video faced significant criticism for allowing the large-scale transaction to proceed. Policy Details and Potential Loopholes The updated guideline specifies that shoppers may only buy a maximum of five trading card packs or boxes per store visit. However, the wording has raised questions due to its vagueness. What exactly counts as a "box" is not defined, and whether someone could buy five high-value Elite Trainer Boxes remains ambiguous. Additionally, because the restriction is based on individual trips, in theory an eager reseller could make multiple trips—buying five items each time—to accumulate significant stocks over several hours. The Scalping Phenomenon For the average collector, such efforts might seem excessive, but for scalpers, it's standard practice. In recent years, speculators have significantly added to widespread shortages of Pokémon cards, spurred by the game's rising popularity. Certain buyers aim to sell unopened products for a profit, whereas some search for valuable pulls that can fetch sky-high values. For instance, the Mega Lucario ex card in recent releases has been listed for over $800 on various platforms. Upcoming Releases The new rule coincides with the imminent release of the Phantasmal Flames set, coming on November 14th. Early listings indicate chase cards like the Charizard mega evolution being offered for around fifteen hundred dollars, highlighting the persistent interest and potential scalper target. Hopefully, the retail limits will help reduce bulk purchases and increase access for genuine collectors and casual players alike.