Pokemon TCG Launches Early Access Program to Combat Scalping
By Published Apr 14, 2026, 1:17 PM EDT Megan Peters is the Deputy Editor at ScreenRant for comics, anime, and manga. Her career in entertainment journalism spans more than a decade as she built coverage lanes at ComicBook under CBS and Paramount following years of freelancing.
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cards are way too expensive. There was once a point in time when collecting TCG releases was a fun hobby, but those days are gone. If you know anything about the state of Pokémon these days, you will know new card releases are often bloodbaths. From scalping frenzies to outrageous reseller requests, Pokémon TCG fans are having a rough time getting cards, but that will hopefully change soon.
After all, the official This week, the chain announced plans to fight resellers and scalpers with a new Early Access program. The system will cover everything from TCG releases to home decor and more. All you have to do is sign up for the Pokémon Center Newsletter if you want a chance to access goodies ahead of time.
The Pokémon Company Is Fighting Back Against Scalpers
If you want the full scoop on the Early Access system, a FAQ has been posted by The Pokémon Company with all the important details. "The Pokémon Center Early Access program allows selected before they are more widely released. Customers subscribed to the Pokémon Center newsletter and who meet specific criteria are eligible to be selected for early access," the blurb reads.
Currently, Early Access is limited to a few regions. The FAQ says customers in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom are able to participate in the program. As for what's covered by the Early Access system, The Pokémon Center says any items (including preorders) are eligible, especially if there is a high demand for the product.
"Any item, including preorder items, may be included in the Early Access program. Please note that Pokémon Center Support is unable to share information regarding which items are included in the Early Access program," the FAQ reads. "Items included in the Early Access program are generally popular, so it is recommended to use your invitation sooner rather than later if you are interested in the item(s)."
The breaks down all the specifics you need to take part in Early Access. Given the state of TCG scalping, you can bet eligible fans will jump at the chance to join the club, but only time will tell how effective this program is.
The Pokémon Company Has Strict Scalping Deterrents in Japan
As you can imagine, The Pokémon Center is making waves with this new announcement. It has been a because of rampant reselling. Outside of Japan, this imbalance has been largely unchecked until recently, but Pokémon Centers in Japan have been combating scalpers for years.
Subscribe to the newsletter for Early Access invites
Sign up for the Pokémon Center newsletter to become eligible for Early Access selection: subscribers get official guidance on which high-demand TCG and merchandise items may be offered for early purchase and how to participate. Get Updates By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept our and . You can unsubscribe anytime.
Following Pokémon TCG's sharp rise in 2026, Japanese retailers began fighting resellers in full force. It is common for Pokémon Centers in Japan to remove shrink-wrap from booster sets, a detail that significantly lowers the resale value of the item. Other stores will mark sets with stickers or alter individual packs to combat scalpers, and that's just the start. From strictly enforced lottery systems to stern purchase limits, Japan's Pokémon Centers do not mess around when it comes to scalpers hoarding products. Now, the chain is bringing that fire to the United States, so Pokémon fans will soon discover whether this Early Access system works or not.
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