Why Pokémon Has Gone Crazy in Recent Times: The Perfect Storm of Nostalgia, Collecting, and Big Business
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Over the past few years, Pokémon has experienced an incredible surge in popularity. Whether it’s the skyrocketing prices of rare trading cards, the boom in online streaming of Pokémon-related content, or the explosion of new merchandise and collaborations, it's clear that Pokémon isn’t just a childhood memory for many—it’s become a thriving subculture and a serious business. But why now? What’s behind this sudden resurgence of the Pokémon phenomenon?
Nostalgia Drives the Boom
For many collectors, the Pokémon craze never truly ended. It just quietly simmered in the background, waiting for the perfect moment to boil over. This “perfect moment” happened when nostalgia hit its peak. Many people who grew up watching the Pokémon animated series, collecting cards, and playing video games are now adults with disposable income. For these “nostalgia collectors,” buying back into Pokémon is a way to relive their childhood memories, reconnecting with a beloved part of their past.
But it’s not just about the feeling of nostalgia—it’s about recapturing something that was once lost or out of reach. Old cards, toys, and rare collectibles that were once part of their childhood have suddenly become valuable. And for many, that “find” of a rare card sitting in their childhood bedroom or a local store shelf feels almost like a treasure hunt.
The Rise of the Pokémon Card Market (and Why It’s So Lucrative)
While the Pokémon trading card game has always been a staple of the franchise, the surge in card collecting and trading has been nothing short of spectacular in recent years. The pandemic played a significant role in this. With people stuck at home, many turned to old hobbies or started new ones, and the nostalgia and thrill of collecting Pokémon cards became an accessible and exciting way to pass the time.
In 2020 and 2021, we saw some jaw-dropping sales figures for rare Pokémon cards—think of the record-breaking sales of a first-edition Charizard or Pikachu Illustrator card. The online platforms and marketplaces dedicated to Pokémon cards saw massive growth as collectors and speculators alike began buying, trading, and flipping cards for huge profits.
This rise of high-value cards has created a "collector’s market" in which certain cards can sell for tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars. For example, the recent sale of a PSA 10 (graded perfect) 1st Edition Charizard card reached over $200,000. For many, this isn’t just a hobby—it’s an investment opportunity.
Social Media & Influencers Spark the Hype
What’s been fueling this resurgence, especially in the last couple of years, is social media. Platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok have turned Pokémon collectors and influencers into stars. From unboxing videos to live stream card pulls, these influencers generate massive amounts of excitement and anticipation for each new set release or rare card pull.
Take Logan Paul’s famous Pokémon card box breaks, for instance. When he purchased a box of 1st Edition packs worth millions and documented the process online, it caught the attention of millions. His enthusiasm for Pokémon and its collectible cards sparked a wider mainstream interest and showed how profitable the hobby could be. It wasn’t just a “childhood pastime” anymore—it became a global phenomenon.
For collectors, watching these influencers open boxes and find rare cards in real time creates a sense of FOMO (fear of missing out) that fuels the market. People want to get in on the action—whether it's to experience the thrill of a rare find themselves or to see if their collection has hidden value.
The Younger Generation & New Players Discover Pokémon
It’s not just adults in their 30s and 40s rediscovering Pokémon; the younger generation is diving in as well. Pokémon is constantly introducing new products, games, and media, drawing in new fans. The launch of games like Pokémon GO brought Pokémon into the mobile space, where millions of players could connect and collect. For many younger players, Pokémon Sword and Shield on the Nintendo Switch, along with the re-release of classic games, introduced the franchise to a new generation of fans.
What’s more, online platforms like Twitch and YouTube make it easier than ever for younger fans to access content related to Pokémon. This opens up new avenues for engagement, from watching live card openings to joining online Pokémon communities. And because Pokémon has such a broad fanbase—spanning generations and regions—it continues to captivate new players while retaining its core following.
Pokémon’s Cross-Generational Appeal
One of the factors behind the franchise’s lasting popularity is its ability to appeal to multiple generations. Whether it's the original fans who grew up with the anime and trading card game or newcomers who got hooked on the mobile games or merchandise, Pokémon’s blend of nostalgia and innovation creates a broad, diverse fanbase.
The timelessness of the franchise, paired with the consistent release of new content (like Pokémon Legends: Arceus or the upcoming Scarlet and Violet games), ensures that there’s always something fresh for old fans and new fans alike.
Pokémon as an Investment: More Than Just a Hobby
For some collectors, it’s not just about collecting—it’s about profiting. As the Pokémon card market grows, so does the idea of “flipping” cards for a profit. Thanks to platforms like eBay, TCGPlayer, and Instagram, Pokémon cards have become an easy-to-access asset class for people who understand the value of rarity and condition. Rare cards, limited edition releases, or even unopened packs can appreciate in value over time.
And let’s not forget about the appeal of sealed products—Elite Trainer Boxes (ETBs) and booster boxes are seen not only as ways to expand a collection but also as long-term investments. The “sealed product” mentality—holding onto rare packs and not opening them—is gaining traction, as more and more people recognize that these items could be worth more down the road.
Final Thoughts: The Perfect Storm of Pokémon
So, why has Pokémon gone crazy in recent times? The combination of nostalgia, social media hype, and the allure of rare collectibles has created the perfect storm. But more than that, it’s the enduring appeal of Pokémon itself. With new generations discovering the franchise, and old fans embracing their love for Pokémon in new ways, the future of the Pokémon phenomenon looks brighter than ever.
For those of us who’ve always been passionate about Pokémon, it’s an exciting time to be involved. Whether you’re collecting for fun, as a business venture, or just to relive your childhood memories, there’s never been a better time to get involved with Pokémon!
Have you caught the Pokémon collecting bug?
Let us know your thoughts and join the conversation on social media! And if you’re looking for some top-notch cards and accessories to kickstart your collection, check out our shop for the best Pokémon gear.