GameStop issued a notable warning through social media, declaring that it will indefinitely bar any scalpers attempting to weigh Pokémon Trading Card Game packs within its stores. In reaction to this stance, some Pokémon TCG enthusiasts endorsed the retailer’s actions to combat scalping, while others scrutinized GameStop’s own pricing on Pokémon TCG items.

It is widely recognized that the Pokémon TCG has become a prime target for scalpers since the COVID-19 pandemic began, leading to empty shelves and exorbitant prices on resale platforms. Furthermore, the Pokémon TCG has attracted thieves aiming for rare and valuable cards. Notably, victims of Pokemon TCG theft include former NFL quarterback Tom Brady, who suffered a loss of nearly $10,000 worth of Pokémon and baseball cards taken from his CardVault shop in New York City, an incident that remains under investigation by the NYPD.

Despite some retailers, like Walmart, implementing limits on Pokémon TCG products to mitigate scalping, GameStop has drawn attention with its recent social media post. In a November 17 tweet, it asserted it would permanently ban anyone caught weighing card packs using a scale for their own benefit. Following this, GameStop shared a video featuring a scalper filmed using a scale on One Piece card packs to determine which contained the most valuable cards.

While some GameStop customers expressed agreement with the need for such policies amid broader retailer restrictions, others highlighted the inconsistency in pricing across stores, sharing photos of Pokémon TCG booster box prices that sometimes exceeded the original manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP).

Looking ahead, Pokémon TCG players will have a notable opportunity as GameStop is set to hold a unique trade-in event on December 6, which could aid in curbing scalping practices. How effective GameStop’s initiatives will ultimately prove in dissuading scalpers, remains to be seen.