Opening Pokémon packs is the new vice for younger generations

Opening Pokémon packs has become a popular stress-relief ritual for younger adults after bad days.

The habit is often shared on TikTok, Reddit, YouTube, and Instagram, turning pack openings into social content.

Fans compare the chase for rare pulls to gambling or smoking, since the odds are low but the thrill is real.

Scarcity, resale value, and FOMO are helping make Pokémon cards a mainstream coping habit among Gen Z.