Poké TCG's Backlash Boosts Trading Accessibility

Pokemon TCG Pocket's Trading Feature Faces Backlash, Prompts Developer Response

DeNA, the developer of Pokemon TCG Pocket, has pledged improvements to the game's trading feature following significant player criticism. The controversy centers around the recently implemented trading system, released January 29th, 2025, which allows players to exchange cards of 1-4 Diamond and 1-Star rarity from Genetic Apex and Mythical Island booster packs.

High Cost of Trade Tokens Fuels Player Frustration

The primary complaint revolves around the exorbitant cost of acquiring trade tokens, the in-game currency required for trading. These tokens are obtained by sacrificing higher-rarity cards, creating a system where players must essentially "burn" valuable cards to facilitate trades. For example, trading a 4-Diamond card demands 500 tokens, while selling a 1-Star card only yields 100. This imbalance has left many players feeling exploited.

In a February 1st, 2025, Twitter (X) post, DeNA acknowledged the negative feedback, stating they are actively exploring solutions. One planned change is to introduce multiple avenues for obtaining trade tokens, including through in-game events. The current limitation to trading only 1-Star cards is also under review.

DeNA justified the initial restrictive measures as a preventative measure against bot abuse and multi-account exploitation, aiming to maintain a fair and enjoyable card-collecting experience.

Genetic Apex Booster Pack Accessibility Concerns

A separate issue arose following the launch of the Space-Time Smackdown booster packs on January 29th, 2025. Some players reported the disappearance of the Genetic Apex packs from the main screen, sparking concerns about their permanent removal.

This proved to be a UI/UX issue; the Genetic Apex packs remain accessible via a less-prominent "Select other booster packs" option. While understandable as a design flaw, some players suspected a deliberate attempt to promote the newer packs. Suggestions for improving the home screen's clarity to display all available packs have been made. DeNA has yet to address this specific concern.