Pokémon cards have been a part of Dutch pop culture since the late 1990s. What started as a children's game in the schoolyard has grown into a mature hobby with a huge and active community. In recent years, the popularity of Pokémon cards in the Netherlands has exploded, and that growth shows no signs of slowing down.
But why is interest so high right now? In this blog post, we delve into the key reasons behind the resurgence of Pokémon cards in the Netherlands.
1. Nostalgia: A generation returns to Pokémon
One of the biggest reasons for its popularity is nostalgia . The first generation of Pokémon fans has now reached adulthood. Many current collectors are between 25 and 40 years old and grew up with:
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Pokémon Red, Blue, and Yellow
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The original anime starring Ash and Pikachu
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The Base Set, Jungle and Fossil cards
During the coronavirus pandemic, many people rediscovered their old maps in the attic. For many, that moment marked the start of a renewed hobby of collecting.
What used to be “a game” now feels like:
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A piece of childhood memory
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Escape the daily hustle and bustle
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A tangible form of nostalgia
Pokémon cards offer something digital hobbies cannot: physical emotional value .
2. An increasingly strong Dutch Pokémon community
The Pokémon community in the Netherlands is larger and closer than ever. Fans connect through:
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Discord servers
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Facebook groups
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Reddit (like PokémonTCGNL)
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Local exchange evenings and events
Exchanging over buying
Many Dutch collectors say trading is their favorite part. The social aspect—talking about cards, sharing stories, and making deals—is central.
Exchange evenings and fairs provide:
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New friendships
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Knowledge exchange
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Involvement in the hobby
Webshops that support this community are not seen as “sellers”, but as part of the scene .
3. Pokémon cards have become more than just a hobby
While fun is paramount, we can't deny that Pokémon cards also hold financial value . In the Netherlands, interest in cards as collectibles or investments is growing.
Important reasons:
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Transparent price trends (Cardmarket, eBay)
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Professional grading (PSA, CGC, BGS)
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Media attention for record sales
Hobby vs. investment
Most Dutch collectors don't primarily view Pokémon cards as an investment, but increasing value does make the hobby more attractive. Especially:
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Sealed products
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Vintage cards
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Promotions and special prints
often retain their value well.
4. Influence of social media and influencers
Social media has played a huge role in the growth of Pokémon cards. YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram are full of them:
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Pack openings
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Collection tours
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Grading results
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Live box breaks
This content is infectious. Many people think:
“My favorite card might be in here.”
Influencers are also normalizing collecting for adults. Where Pokémon used to be considered "childish," it's now an accepted and popular hobby .
5. More events and card shows in the Netherlands
The Netherlands has seen a strong growth in Pokémon-related events in recent years. Card shows, swap meets, and conventions attract thousands of visitors.
These events offer:
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Access to rare cards
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Direct contact with other collectors
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Education about value, condition and authenticity
For many fans, these are highlights of the year. They strengthen the sense of community and make the hobby tangible and vibrant.
6. Reliable online stores make collecting more accessible
Another important factor is the rise of reliable Dutch Pokémon webshops . Collectors want:
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Fair prices
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Fast and secure shipping
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Original products
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Good customer service
When trust is lacking, people lose interest. Reliable online stores ensure that new collectors feel safe to start, and experienced collectors keep coming back.
For many fans, a good webshop is not just a store, but also:
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Information source
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News platform
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Starting point for their collection
7. Pokémon keeps renewing itself
Pokémon is a constantly evolving brand. New games, new sets, and new mechanics (like VMAX and Teracristal) keep the brand fresh.
Still, Pokémon remains true to its core:
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Recognizable Pokémon
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Consistent quality
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Cross-generational appeal
This ensures that both new and old fans continue to feel addressed.
Conclusion: Pokémon cards are here to stay
The popularity of Pokémon cards in the Netherlands isn't a passing fad. It's the result of:
✅ Nostalgia
✅ Strong community
✅ Accessibility via web shops
✅ Social media
✅ Events
✅ Continuous innovation
For many Dutch people, Pokémon cards are:
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Relaxation
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Collecting fun
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A social hobby
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An enduring passion
Whether you're just starting out or have been collecting for years, now's the time to be part of the Pokémon community.
