Pokémon cards are becoming one of crypto’s fastest-growing real-world asset sectors, with blockchain platforms allowing users to trade tokenized versions of physical collectibles.

Messari data shows the top seven tokenized Pokémon card platforms generated $230 million in gacha sales in May, up sharply from $32 million a year earlier, when Collector Crypt and Courtyard were the dominant players. According to NS3.AI, the surge highlights growing demand for blockchain-based collectibles and mystery-pack style experiences.

One of the largest players, Collector Crypt, stores its physical inventory inside a 28,000-square-foot vault in Montana. CEO Tuom Holmberg said the facility serves as a key trust layer, securing the real Pokémon cards that back the platform’s tokenized assets.

Much of the growth is being driven by digital “gacha” machines, which allow users to purchase mystery packs for a chance to receive rare and valuable cards. Supporters say blockchain technology improves liquidity and ownership verification, while critics argue the model can resemble gambling.

As real-world asset tokenization expands beyond traditional cryptocurrencies, Pokémon cards are emerging as one of the industry’s most surprising success stories, blending collectibles, gaming, and speculation into a rapidly growing market.