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 perceived high cost and restrictive nature of the trading system.

High Cost of Trade Tokens Sparks Outrage

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

DeNA acknowledged the player concerns on February 1st, 2025, via a Twitter (X) post, stating they are actively investigating solutions. A key planned change involves providing alternative methods to acquire trade tokens, including event distributions. Currently, obtaining tokens necessitates sacrificing higher-rarity cards, creating an inefficient and potentially wasteful system. For example, trading a 4-Diamond card requires 500 tokens, while selling even higher-rarity 2-Star and 3-Star cards yields only 300 tokens.

DeNA justified the initial restrictions as a measure to prevent bot abuse and multi-account exploitation, aiming to maintain a fair and enjoyable card-collecting experience.

Genetic Apex Booster Pack Accessibility Concerns

Further complaints surfaced regarding the January 29th release of the Space-Time Smackdown booster packs. Some players reported the disappearance of Genetic Apex packs from the main screen, leading to concerns about their accessibility. However, this proved to be a user interface issue; the Genetic Apex packs remain available via a less prominent "Select other booster packs" option.

While understandable as a potential marketing oversight, the poor visibility fueled speculation and frustration among players who hadn't completed the Genetic Apex collection. Players have suggested improving the home screen display to showcase all available booster packs to prevent future confusion. DeNA has yet to address this specific issue.