Pokemon TCG: Trading Feature Overhaul Announced

The Pokémon TCG Pocket developers, DeNA, have pledged to improve the game's trading feature following significant player backlash. Let's delve into the reasons behind the complaints.

Pokémon TCG Pocket: Player Complaints Regarding the Latest Update

The High Cost of Trade Tokens

Launched on January 29, 2025, the much-anticipated trading feature allows players to exchange 1-4 star rarity cards from Genetic Apex and Mythical Island booster packs. While a welcome addition for completing Pokédexes, the feature's limitations—restricted card selection, a new in-game currency, and exorbitant trading costs—have sparked widespread dissatisfaction. In response to the negative feedback, DeNA announced on February 1, 2025, via a Twitter (X) post that they are actively working on improvements. One planned change is to introduce multiple ways to acquire trade tokens, including through events. Currently, only 1-star cards are tradeable.

These tokens, the currency for trading, are earned by sacrificing higher-rarity cards. For example, trading a 4-Diamond card (an EX Pokémon) demands 500 tokens, while selling a 1-star card yields only 100, and 2-star and 3-star cards yield 300. This system forces players to expend rare cards or multiple cards to facilitate trades.

DeNA clarified the reasoning behind the stringent rules, stating they were implemented to prevent bot abuse and multi-account exploitation. The goal, they explained, was to maintain a fair and enjoyable card-collecting experience for all players. While further details on upcoming changes are pending, it's likely the developers are addressing potential exploits before releasing an update.

The Apparent Disappearance of Genetic Apex After Space-Time Smackdown's Release

Another source of player frustration stems from the January 29, 2025 release of the Space-Time Smackdown booster packs. Some players reported on Reddit that Genetic Apex packs were no longer accessible, with only Mythical Island and Space-Time Smackdown packs visible on the home screen.

This concern is unfounded, however. The Genetic Apex packs remain available; they are simply located in a less-prominent "Select other booster packs" option in the bottom-right corner of the pack selection screen. The small and easily overlooked text has understandably caused confusion.

While potentially attributable to poor UI design, some players suspect a deliberate attempt to promote the newer packs. Although this might be a valid marketing strategy, it inconveniences players who haven't yet completed their Genetic Apex collections. Players have suggested a home screen update to display all three booster pack sets to prevent future misunderstandings. DeNA has not yet addressed this issue. Hopefully, this clarification will reassure players that Genetic Apex packs remain accessible.