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# GAMESTOP TO EXPAND INTO RARE POKÉMON CARD MARKET
GameStop, the renowned retailer in the video game industry, is now venturing into the lucrative world of rare Pokémon card collecting. According to reports from various sources, including Pokébeach, Polygon, and others, GameStop will soon start buying and selling rare Pokémon cards, along with other types of cards.
# STRICT CRITERIA FOR CARD PURCHASES
However, GameStop will not settle for just any cards. Employees have indicated that the stores will specifically target cards that have been graded by Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA) at an 8, 9, or 10 level, ensuring they are in near-mint condition or better. Surprisingly, GameStop will not accept the most valuable cards worth over $500. This means collectors will need to look elsewhere to sell their prized PSA 10 shadowless first-edition Charizards.
# EXCLUSIVE COLLABORATION WITH PSA
An employee disclosed to The Verge that GameStop’s foray into the card market involves a unique collaboration with PSA. Despite this partnership, GameStop will not provide in-store grading services or assist in the card submission process. It seems that GameStop is open to purchasing other PSA-graded cards beyond Pokémon, as per the employee.
# DIVERSE RANGE OF PSA-GRADED CARDS
Additionally, GameStop intends to accept a variety of PSA-graded cards, expanding beyond just Pokémon. This move highlights the retailer’s ambition to tap into the broader collectibles market and cater to a wider range of card collectors.
# CARD PURCHASE OPTIONS
While reports suggest that customers will have the opportunity to purchase cards at GameStop, these may not necessarily be the high-end, rare PSA-graded ones. Initially, customers may find $1 singles available for purchase, allowing entry-level collectors to start their card collection journey.
# STORE ROLL-OUT AND FUTURE PLANS
It remains unclear when GameStop’s card program will be fully operational in stores. While some sources suggest a launch as early as next week, others anticipate a roll-out in July. GameStop and PSA have yet to provide official comments on the matter.
Sources: Pokébeach, Polygon, and internal company information.
