Pokemon TCG Pocket's Trading Feature Faces Backlash, Promising Improvements
Developer DeNA has pledged to revamp the trading system in Pokemon TCG Pocket following significant player criticism. The outcry centers around the recently implemented trading feature's limitations and high costs.
High Cost of Trade Tokens Fuels Player Dissatisfaction
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 beneficial for Pokedex completion, the restrictive nature of the system – limited card selection, a new in-game currency (trade tokens), and exorbitant trading costs – has sparked widespread discontent.
DeNA acknowledged the negative feedback on February 1st, 2025, via a Twitter (X) post, stating they are actively working on improvements. A key change will be introducing multiple ways to acquire trade tokens, potentially through in-game events. Currently, obtaining sufficient tokens requires sacrificing higher-rarity cards, creating an unsustainable loop for many players. For example, trading a 4-Diamond card necessitates 500 tokens, while selling even higher-rarity cards yields significantly fewer.
DeNA justified the initial stringent rules as a measure against bot abuse and multi-account exploitation, aiming to preserve a fair and enjoyable card-collecting experience.
Genetic Apex Booster Pack Accessibility Concerns
The launch of the Space-Time Smackdown booster packs on January 29th, 2025, also generated controversy. Some players reported the disappearance of the Genetic Apex packs from the main screen, leading to concerns about their permanent removal.
This, however, appears to be a user interface issue. The Genetic Apex packs remain accessible via a less prominent "Select other booster packs" option. While understandable given the small and easily overlooked text, the situation highlights a potential design flaw and fueled speculation of deliberate obfuscation to promote the newer packs. Players have suggested a homescreen update to display all three booster pack sets for clarity. DeNA has yet to officially address this specific concern.
