Pokémon TCG Pocket Devs Looking to Improve Trading Following Major Player Backlash

Pokémon TCG Pocket developer Creatures Inc. is actively investigating improvements to the trading feature, launched last week to significant player backlash. In an X/Twitter statement, Creatures Inc. acknowledged player feedback, explaining the trading restrictions were intended to prevent abuse, but inadvertently hindered casual enjoyment. The company promised to address concerns by offering Trade Tokens as rewards in future events, a promise already broken with the February 3rd Cresselia ex Drop Event lacking any such rewards.

The trading feature, already criticized for its restrictive mechanics (limiting pack openings and Wonder Picking without in-app purchases), introduced Trade Tokens—a currency requiring players to delete five cards to trade one of equal rarity. This high cost sparked widespread outrage.

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Creatures Inc. stated the restrictions aimed to prevent bot abuse and multi-account exploitation, balancing gameplay fairness while preserving the core collecting experience. However, they admitted the restrictions negatively impacted casual players and pledged to improve the feature. Future plans include providing multiple ways to obtain Trade Tokens, though specifics and timelines remain unclear.

The statement lacks details on potential refunds or compensation for players who traded under the current system, leaving players uncertain about the impact of future changes. The limited availability of Trade Tokens—only 200 offered as premium Battle Pass rewards (enough for one 3-Diamond card trade)—further fuels player concerns. The absence of Trade Tokens in the Cresselia ex Drop Event directly contradicts the company's recent promise.

Player criticism highlights the perceived revenue-generating nature of the trading mechanic, particularly given Pokémon TCG Pocket's estimated $200 million first-month revenue (pre-trading). The inability to trade 2-Star or higher rarity cards reinforces this, as immediate trading would eliminate the need for costly random pack purchases. One player reported spending approximately $1,500 to complete the first set, with a third set released shortly after. Players have described the mechanic as "predatory and downright greedy," "hilariously toxic," and a "monumental failure."