If time has taught us anything it’s to never underestimate the popularity of Pokémon. Since the franchise went international in 1998, there has seldom been a lull in popularity or demand. Whether it’s the games, anime, or other merchandise, there’s always something people want their hands on. Like the trading cards, for example. Such is the case with a limited edition Pokémon card that was being distributed by the Van Gogh Museum in the Netherlands.
On September 28th, the museum opened a special exhibit discussing the connection between Vincent Van Gogh and how he was inspired by Japanese art and culture. As a part of that exhibit, a limited edition Pikachu card was created. It features the electric-type Pokémon in a pose that’s akin to the Van Gogh self-portrait with Grey Felt Hat.
Maybe it’s because of the adorableness or maybe it’s because it’s a limited edition card, but demand for it has overwhelmed the museum. According to the BBC, there were videos showing the museum’s shops being swarmed by customers attempting to get their hands on the card. It’s distinctly possible that the demand is from a combination of legitimate interest and scalpers, since anything involving a limited supply is being scalped to the point of insanity these days.
Normally a high demand for something wouldn’t necessarily be cause for alarm, but it seems as if the museum was not prepared for the influx of guests. No official explanation for stopping the distribution of the card was given outside of vaguely stating that there were concerns about allowing visitors to explore the exhibit in a “safe and enjoyable manner.” The museum also mentioned that it was a “small group of individuals,” that caused this decision to be made. Maybe there was a bit of a tussle in the gift shop? Some Pokémon enthusiasts took the idea of a trainer battle too literally? Either way, the museum says the card will go on sale online and in select Dutch shops sometime in 2024.
So if you can’t make it to the Netherlands to grab a Van Gogh Pikachu, there’s still hope to get one online eventually. In the meantime, if you are heading out to the Van Gogh Museum, don’t expect to be able to catch ’em all when it comes to Pokémon; save it for your Nintendo Switch.
The Pikachu card is currently selling for around $8,500 on various websites.
