Recently, Pokémon China officially announced the launch of collector's boxes exclusive to mainland China as part of the Pokémon Trading Card Game's 30th Anniversary Celebration. These include a Charizard collector's figure and a multi-style Pikachu figure set. The news sparked widespread envy among overseas players. Foreign media outlet GamesRadar published a tongue-in-cheek article titled "This Exclusive Merchandise Ruined My Day."
The Charizard Collector's Box has a suggested retail price of 780 yuan and officially goes on sale on September 16. The figure faithfully recreates the classic Charizard card artwork from the original 1999 set. The set includes an oversized Charizard collector's card and 15 packs of the 30th Anniversary Celebration expansion. Additionally, there is an 88-yuan Pikachu set featuring 13 different Pikachu figures in various poses, each corresponding to an exclusive commemorative card, including secret rare variants. Both products are exclusive to China, with no plans for overseas versions.
Foreign media have stated that there is currently no confirmation that this merchandise will be released in European and American markets. Even if a small quantity makes its way into overseas retail stores, it will be snapped up instantly. Overseas players looking to acquire these items will have to rely on secondary market platforms like eBay, facing high markups and expensive shipping fees, making them difficult for average enthusiasts to obtain. Only a few stores in the UK will import a limited amount of Chinese Pokémon merchandise, but the supply is highly unstable and cannot be considered a reliable purchasing channel.
The overseas 30th-anniversary product line only includes Mew and Mewtwo-themed boxes, lacking the highly nostalgic Charizard and Pikachu figures. Many overseas card players have expressed regret over this omission. Some domestic players have also joked that while the official pricing is friendly, scalpers will likely drive up the actual cost of acquisition.
