I'm not surprised these didn't sell out. There are still over 200 sets.
Here is my analysis if it actually holds any water.. HaHa
The sketch market is down big time compared to a year ago, yes there are some players that have left the sketch hobby. This shouldn't change things too much because the bidding is still there although not to the level of a few sketch collectors of the past.
Anyway, that's not really the issue. We got really used to the artists and know what we like. Topps added a few new artists and it changed the dynamics. I know there needs to be some new blood but it's hurting the sketches rather than helping. Its a crazy conundrum. I like some of the new artists but not all are created equal. Even the artists we love compromises on some series. I, myself, want them all to be amazing but from what I've learned is these guys have a ton of stuff to do. It really comes down to Topps. I know they are a business but they might be stretching things too thin and the sketches we love are suffering.
I don't know what these guys get paid for sketches but it has to be better for a better product by Topps. The sketch is the only reason we would buy multiple PC sets. If the quality control is down so are sales.