Pokemon TCG Pocket Backlash Prompts Trading Feature Improvements

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

DeNA, the developer behind Pokemon TCG Pocket, has pledged improvements to the game's recently implemented trading feature following significant player criticism. The controversy centers around the feature's high cost and restrictive nature.

High Cost of Trade Tokens Sparks Outrage

Introduced on January 29th, 2025, the trading feature allows exchanges of 1-4 Diamond and 1-Star cards from Genetic Apex and Mythical Island booster packs. While welcomed by players aiming for Pokedex completion, the limitations—specifically the limited card selection, the introduction of a new in-game currency (trade tokens), and the exorbitant cost of trading—have caused widespread dissatisfaction.

DeNA acknowledged the negative feedback, stating they are actively working on solutions. One planned improvement is to introduce multiple ways to acquire trade tokens, including through in-game events. Currently, obtaining tokens requires sacrificing higher-rarity cards, creating an inefficient and potentially wasteful system. For example, trading a 4-Diamond card necessitates 500 tokens, while selling even higher-rarity cards yields significantly fewer tokens.

DeNA defended the initial restrictions, citing the need to prevent bot abuse and multi-account exploitation. They emphasized a commitment to fair gameplay and preserving the core collecting aspect of the game.

Genetic Apex Booster Pack Availability Confusion

Another point of contention involves the release of Space-Time Smackdown booster packs on January 29th, 2025. Some players reported the disappearance of Genetic Apex packs from the main screen. This was clarified as a UI issue; the older packs remain accessible via a less prominent "Select other booster packs" option.

While understandable as a potential design flaw, some players suspected a deliberate attempt to promote the newer packs. Suggestions for improving the home screen display to show all available booster packs have been made. While DeNA hasn't directly addressed this, the clarification should alleviate concerns about the permanent removal of Genetic Apex.