Pokémon Card Scalping Sparks Controversy in Japan

The Pokémon Company has announced a drastic measure to combat card scalping in Japan: a facial recognition system that will be mandatory for all adult customers and children at elementary school age or older.

The move, which was announced on the company’s official Japanese website, aims to provide a safe and secure shopping environment for all customers and prevent crime. According to the company, entry to official Pokémon stores will be limited to one visit per person per day to prevent excessive spending.

However, it’s unclear what will happen if customers try to bypass this rule. The company has stated that if staff observe multiple attempts to enter the store, they may speak to the individual. This could be seen as a polite way of saying that customers will receive a scolding.

Children under elementary school age will not be subject to facial recognition checks. However, pre-schoolers will not be able to enter the store alone and must be accompanied by a guardian.

This move comes after Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa stated that the company would take measures to deal with the rampant shortages and scalping of Pokémon cards. The facial recognition system is likely a response to this issue, although it remains to be seen whether it will make a dent in the lucrative Pokémon card resale market.

Pokémon cards have become a prime target for scalpers and thieves due to their soaring popularity and perceived value. New card releases frequently sell out completely, and the company has struggled to keep up with demand, printing a staggering 10 billion cards last year alone.

The situation has led to arguments in fast food chains in Japan and has resulted in numerous break-ins and robberies at trading card stores in the United States. In one recent incident, a card shop in New York was targeted by armed thieves in broad daylight, leaving staff and customers shaken.

Another desperate Pokémon fan was arrested in Pasadena, California, after hiding inside a closed Best Buy ahead of a Pokémon card drop. These incidents highlight the desperation of some fans and the need for the company to take action to prevent such crimes.

The Pokémon Company’s new policy may help to prevent card scalping and provide a safer shopping environment for customers. However, it remains to be seen whether this move will be effective in addressing the issue.