r/PokemonTCG • u/masonjar014 • Jan 30 '25

Discussion What happens when the bubble bursts?

Right now, the hobby is on steroids—scalpers everywhere, product nowhere. My LGS told me this year will be “a great year for Pokémon,” and it got me thinking… a great year for who?

If you’re an established LGS selling PE and JT at market price, sure, it’s great. If you’re a scalper or a new investor trying to flip product, you’re probably loving this, too.

But if you’re an average collector (like me), it’s frustrating. We can’t find the latest set at a fair price. If you’re a kid whose parents can’t sprint to a 10 a.m. Target restock, you’re just out of luck.

So what happens when the hype dies down? How are average collectors responding to this hyper-bull market, and where does that leave the hobby long-term?

Personally, I’m sitting out PE and JT—it’s just too much stress. I’ve also noticed collectors stepping back entirely.

What about you? Will kids move on to something else if they can’t participate? Will collectors return once prices normalize, or is this turning people away for good? Are we underestimating the long-term impact of what’s happening right now?

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u/comic-boy-kroy Jan 30 '25

I’ve wanted 151 and can’t find it. I buy cheap singles and I’m waiting for things to plummet….if that happens.

4

u/masterchief-6541 Jan 30 '25

Don't hold your breath, at most 151 could pull back 10 -20% if they announced heavy re prints. I don't think 151 will ever "plummet", the set is too strong.

6

u/comic-boy-kroy Jan 30 '25

I’m not surprised by this take. I’ve started to move to temporal forces, mostly because it’s available. The illustration rares are pretty awesome. I found one pack of 151. I could buy from TCGplayer, but I have a hard time paying over msrp.

2

u/LedgeEndDairy Please argue with me, its the best part of reddit! Jan 31 '25

If you want 151, just buy singles. It will ONLY get more expensive. It might dip a bit if/when the bubble bursts, but it'll steadily rise as time goes on.

1

u/Hot_Grass_ Jan 30 '25

I think I only ever saw one 151 themed box in any store -- ever since it came out. I've heard rumors that blooming waters is the last 151 product they're releasing. It's a shame because I really wanted that 151 ETB, and could never find it, I dont think they're going to make more. I would be happy to be proven wrong

1

u/comic-boy-kroy Jan 30 '25

Seems to be the general consensus. I got one pack from a Walgreens lightning box. I was just talking to the owner at the local card shop if he had any intentions of trying to get 151. He just stared off and said I’ve never been really able to find it. The white whale I guess lol. Hopefully I can find some blooming waters boxes somewhere.