By Paul Harrington Staff Writer An important note: This article serves solely as a look at the current state of the Pokémon TCG scene and is not meant to be an attack of any sorts. Pokémon is well known for its iconic catchphrase “Gotta Catch ’Em All.” It takes many different forms such as anime, video games, and the focus of today’s OPED, trading cards. The Pokémon Trading Card Game (Pokémon TCG) offers a card-based fighting experience for those interested. However, explaining how to play would take up too much time. Pokémon cards are sold in a lot of different forms. There are singles, blister packs, elite trainer boxes (ETBS), booster boxes, and many more. Over its 28-year lifespan, Pokémon TCG has lured in collectors, aspiring “Play! Pokémon” contestants, and scalpers. Although I try not to splurge on Pokémon cards, I sometimes wonder what it would be like to go on a “ripping spree.” There’s a card for everyone, as each card's different art style is sure to catch your eyes. If you pull a “hit,” then it can be sent for “grading,” which is the process of sending a card to a third party for evaluation. If you get a 10, your card is more likely to be worth something. Some people buy cards to collect, some buy cards to make a profit. Although people consume for different reasons, I'm sure they can agree on one sentiment. Objectively compared to the ’90s, accessing and buying Pokémon cards is a difficult alleyway to navigate. Back in the day, you would buy in person. The nostalgia of going to the store to buy a fresh pack of cards was an unmatched feeling. With the dawn of the internet however, the markets shifted in favor of technology. Some consumers have utilized “scalper bots.” These are software scripts programmed to purchase a product as soon as it drops. Scalper bots have been used by certain people to hoard cards for themselves. The inherent rise of scalpers in the Pokémon community have made it a divisive market where you either see no product, or booster boxes being sold at double their price. Social media does a powerful job of displaying just how “empty” stores are because of scalpers who buy in bulk. As the days go by, I see video after video of grown men running down a Costco aisle at full speed to grab as many booster bundles as possible with no regard for the person next to them. In the most respectful way possible, all I can say is that those actions are genuinely embarrassing. Retail workers shouldn’t have to deal with hordes of people running through their aisles in search of Pokémon cards. So you’re probably asking me, “How do you combat scalpers?” My answer is humane and simple. Be realistic! Don’t buy in bulk. Try to leave stuff for other people if you can. We all deserve a piece of the pie, and it doesn’t help if someone takes the pie all for themself! If a store doesn’t end up having any product, come back in a week and see if there’s anything new. Although it’s genuinely frustrating to see people buying in mass amounts, I know one thing is for sure. Investing in victory comes with playing the long game. Waiting for the right time to buy might just pay off in the long run. If you want to get into Pokémon TCG, then I would highly recommend going on the official Pokémon website to learn more!