Pokémon TCG Pocket Dev Gifts Players Trade Tokens But Still Doesn't Have Answers to Fix Controversial Feature

Creatures Inc., the developer of Pokémon Trading Card Game Pocket, has addressed player concerns regarding the recently implemented trading mechanic by gifting players 1,000 Trade Tokens. This is sufficient for only two substantial trades. The developer continues to investigate and refine the system.

Players received the tokens silently in their in-game Gift menu. Creatures Inc. acknowledged the negative feedback on X/Twitter, expressing gratitude for player patience. The trading feature's launch was met with significant criticism, with many describing the system as "hilariously toxic," "predatory," and "downright greedy."

The trading system, similar to other in-game mechanics, restricts frequent pack openings, Wonder Picking, and trading without in-app purchases. The Trade Token system further limits trading, requiring players to delete five cards to trade one of equivalent rarity. This high cost drew considerable backlash.

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A week after the controversial launch, Creatures Inc. acknowledged that the restrictive nature of the trading system hindered casual enjoyment. While the developer promised to address concerns by offering necessary items as event rewards, the recent Cresselia ex Drop Event (February 3rd) failed to deliver on this promise.

Many players believe the trading system is primarily designed to boost revenue for Pokémon TCG Pocket, which reportedly generated $200 million in its first month, before the trading feature. This suspicion stems from the inability to trade cards of 2-Star rarity or higher. Allowing free trading of higher-rarity cards would likely reduce the incentive for players to spend money on random card packs. One player reported spending approximately $1,500 to complete the first set, highlighting the significant financial investment required. The third set launched just last week.