Pokémon TCG Devs Adjust Trading Mechanics

Pokémon TCG Pocket's trading feature, launched last week, has faced significant player backlash, prompting developer Creatures Inc. to address concerns. A statement on X/Twitter acknowledged the negative feedback, explaining that initial restrictions were intended to prevent abuse, but inadvertently hindered casual enjoyment.

Creatures Inc. pledged to improve the system by offering Trade Tokens as event rewards. However, the Cresselia ex Drop Event, released February 3rd, failed to include these tokens, contradicting the promise.

The trading system, already criticized for its restrictive mechanics (limiting pack openings and Wonder Picking without in-app purchases), further complicates matters with the Trade Token system. Players decry the high cost of acquiring these tokens, requiring the deletion of five cards to trade one of equal rarity.

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Creatures Inc. clarified that the restrictions aimed to counter bot activity and multi-account exploitation. While striving for a fair environment, the company admitted the current restrictions negatively impact casual players. Future improvements are planned, including alternative methods for obtaining Trade Tokens through events.

The statement lacks specifics on the nature or timing of these changes. Furthermore, the company hasn't addressed potential refunds or compensation for players who traded under the current, criticized system.

The limited availability of Trade Tokens further fuels concerns. Only 200 were offered as premium Battle Pass rewards (a $9.99 monthly subscription), sufficient for trading a single 3-Diamond card. The absence of tokens in the Cresselia ex event highlights a disconnect between promises and action.

Player criticism points to the trading system as a revenue-generating mechanism, particularly given the inability to trade cards of 2-Star rarity or higher. This effectively forces players to spend significant sums for a chance at acquiring rare cards, hindering completion of sets without substantial financial investment. One player reported spending approximately $1,500 to complete the first set. The mechanic has been labeled "predatory," "toxic," and a "monumental failure" by players.