Pokémon TCG Pocket Devs Address Trading Issues After Player Backlash

Creatures Inc., the developer behind the Pokémon Trading Card Game Pocket, is actively working on enhancing the trading feature that was introduced last week and met with significant criticism from the player base. In a recent statement shared on X/Twitter, the company expressed gratitude for the feedback received and acknowledged that the trading system, designed to prevent exploitation, has inadvertently limited casual enjoyment for many players.

The statement outlined Creatures Inc.'s original intent to curb abuse by bots and multiple account usage, aiming to maintain a balanced and fair gaming environment. However, it admitted that some restrictions, such as the introduction of Trade Tokens, have been too stringent. Players have been vocal about the high cost of these tokens, which requires them to discard five cards of the same rarity just to trade one.

In response to the backlash, Creatures Inc. promised to introduce required items as rewards in upcoming events to alleviate some of the frustrations. Unfortunately, the latest Cresselia ex Drop Event, launched on February 3, did not include any Trade Tokens, contrary to what was suggested in their recent announcement.

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Creatures Inc. emphasized their commitment to improving the trading feature and hinted at future event distributions as a means to obtain Trade Tokens more easily. However, the company remained vague about specific changes and timelines, leaving players uncertain about potential refunds or compensations for those who engaged with the trading system early on.

The integration of Trade Tokens into events appears limited, with only 200 tokens available as premium rewards for Battle Pass subscribers at a cost of $9.99 per month, which is barely enough for a single trade of the lowest rarity requiring tokens. This scarcity, coupled with the absence of tokens in the Cresselia ex Drop Event, has fueled further discontent among the community.

Players have expressed frustration, suggesting that the trading system is designed more to boost revenue than to enhance gameplay. With Pokémon TCG Pocket reportedly earning $200 million in its first month, and given the restrictions on trading cards of 2 Star rarity or higher, many feel the system encourages spending on packs for a chance at completing sets. One player reportedly spent around $1,500 just to finish the first set, underscoring the financial burden felt by some.

The community has been vocal, labeling the trading mechanic as "predatory and downright greedy," "hilariously toxic," and a "monumental failure," reflecting widespread dissatisfaction with the current state of the game's trading feature.