Story perspectives

Walmart+ Collector Con Sparks Outrage Over Bot Purchases

10/10/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On October 9, 2025, Walmart launched Collector Con offering Walmart+ members early access to rare Magic: The Gathering (MTG) and Pokémon TCG items.
The Pokémon TCG Phantasmal Flames early-access event faced issues, leaving many collectors in a digital waiting room while bots purchased large quantities.
Frustrated customers are canceling Walmart+ subscriptions and demanding refunds, citing a lack of anti-bot measures.
Despite the backlash, Walmart is unlikely to change course.

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Story summary

On October 9, 2025, Walmart launched Collector Con offering Walmart+ members early access to rare Magic: The Gathering (MTG) and Pokémon TCG items.
The Pokémon TCG Phantasmal Flames early-access event faced issues, leaving many collectors in a digital waiting room while bots purchased large quantities.
Frustrated customers are canceling Walmart+ subscriptions and demanding refunds, citing a lack of anti-bot measures.
Despite the backlash, Walmart is unlikely to change course.