Pokémon TCG’s 30th Anniversary Set Release Will Have Heightened Restrictions at Target

You can find Pokémon cards almost anywhere these days, but for many in the U.S., Target is the go-to spot for TCG products. With the upcoming launch of the Pokémon 30th Anniversary set, Target seems to be taking this connection seriously. Reports and photos from employees indicate that September 16 will be a significant event, not just another product release.

Target shoppers may have already noticed some changes. Throughout September, numerous locations have set up impressive displays of Pokémon products near the electronics section. Leaked documents suggest that these displays won’t just feature 30th Anniversary items; fans can also look forward to recent releases, including the new Target-exclusive Pokémon Owala bottles.

The retailer is ramping up security measures for the release as well. While the specific rules will differ by location, fans planning to line up early should check with their local store. According to reports from a Pokémon restock influencer, a stricter sales system is expected for the 30th Anniversary products. Many stores will employ additional security personnel to manage potentially long lines and direct parking lot traffic.

Some locations are prohibiting the practice of saving a spot in line with an empty lawn chair, and customers may be informed that they cannot gather outside until a designated time. These times vary: some stores won’t allow lines to form until Target officially closes on September 15, while others may restrict lines until just a few hours before the store opens on September 16. Once the store opens, some locations may not allow all customers in line to enter simultaneously.

While these measures haven’t been officially confirmed by Target, employees are supporting these reports in comments on social media. One store’s flyer indicated that some locations might enforce a limit of one item type per customer, rather than the usual limit of two. In the past, some customers have ignored these limits, but this behavior may be curtailed for the 30th Anniversary.

Target isn’t the only retailer tightening the rules for this release. Best Buy has recently shared a release day guide that advises customers to maintain good behavior while in line. Some Barnes & Noble locations have stated they won’t sell any 30th Anniversary items until later in the day on Wednesday. With special displays, increased security, new product limits, and restrictions on certain practices, Target’s strategy for the set’s launch is clearly distinct from its competitors.

Dick’s Sporting Goods and GameStop are also looking to capitalize on the excitement surrounding Pokémon fans.