Pokemon TCG Pocket Backlash Prompts Trading Feature Improvements

Pokemon TCG Pocket's Trading Feature Faces Backlash, Prompts Developer Response

DeNA, the developer of Pokemon TCG Pocket, has pledged improvements to the game's recently implemented trading feature following significant player criticism. The controversy centers around the cost and restrictions associated with trading cards.

High Trading Costs and Limited Options Spark Outrage

The trading feature, launched January 29, 2025, allows players to exchange 1-4 Diamond and 1-Star rarity cards from Genetic Apex and Mythical Island booster packs. However, the system's reliance on a new in-game currency, "trade tokens," and the high cost of these tokens have angered many players.

Acquiring trade tokens requires sacrificing higher-rarity cards, creating a frustrating loop. For example, trading a 4-Diamond card necessitates 500 tokens, while selling even 2-Star or 3-Star cards yields significantly fewer. This forces players to expend valuable cards to facilitate trades.

DeNA acknowledged the player backlash on February 1, 2025, via Twitter (X), stating they are investigating improvements. They plan to introduce multiple ways to obtain trade tokens, including event distributions, addressing a key complaint. Currently, only 1-Star cards are tradeable.

The developer justified the stringent rules as a measure against bot abuse and multi-account exploitation, aiming to maintain a fair and enjoyable card-collecting experience.

Genetic Apex Booster Pack Availability Confusion

A separate issue arose with the January 29, 2025 release of the Space-Time Smackdown booster packs. Some players mistakenly believed the Genetic Apex packs had been removed, as they were not immediately visible on the home screen.

This concern stemmed from the small, easily overlooked text indicating the option to select different booster packs. While understandable given the design flaw, some players suspected a deliberate attempt to promote the newer packs. Suggestions for a homescreen update to display all three booster pack sets have been made.

DeNA has yet to comment on this specific issue, but the clarification that Genetic Apex packs remain accessible should alleviate some player concerns.