Fake Pokémon cards and resealed boxes show up mostly on online marketplaces and at market stalls. A few simple checks avoid most problems.
How can you tell a Pokémon card is fake?
- washed-out or too-dark colours and text in a different font from real cards
- spelling mistakes in attack names or unrealistic HP values
- the card is thinner, glossy all over or bends too easily
- modern rare cards have a fine texture you can feel; fakes are usually smooth
- the back is a different blue when placed next to a real card
How do you recognise a resealed pack or box?
- the pack seal is straight and even; visible glue or wavy edges are bad signs
- the box wrap is tight, with no large holes or odd seams
- the pack count and contents match what the manufacturer lists for that product
The price tells you a lot
A sought-after product offered far below the market price is most often fake or resealed. Compare with prices on well-known marketplaces before you buy.
Where to buy safely
Buy sealed products from sellers who say clearly what they sell and where to find them. The TCG Hits machine holds only original, sealed Pokémon TCG products; the surprise packs are made by us from original cards and are labelled as such.
See what is in the machine now or read the FAQ.