The Pokémon TCG Pocket developers have finally detailed significant improvements to the game's heavily criticized trading system, a source of frustration since launch. While the changes sound promising, their implementation is unfortunately slated for the distant future.
In a recent community forum post, the developers outlined the upcoming updates:
Removal of Trade Tokens
Trade tokens are being eliminated. Trading three-diamond, four-diamond, and one-star rarity cards will now require Shinedust. Shinedust is automatically earned when opening booster packs containing cards already registered in your Card Dex. Since Shinedust is also used for flair, the developers plan to increase its acquisition rate. This change should significantly increase trading opportunities. Existing Trade Tokens will be converted to Shinedust upon the token's removal. Trading of one-diamond and two-diamond rarity cards remains unchanged.
Additional Updates in Development
A new feature will allow players to specify desired trade cards within the in-game trading function.
The most impactful change is the removal of Trade Tokens, a poorly designed currency requiring players to discard cards to trade. The current system necessitates discarding multiple valuable cards to trade even a single desirable card, severely hindering trading activity.
The new Shinedust-based system offers a substantial improvement. Shinedust, already used for card flairs, is acquired automatically from duplicate cards and through events. The developers acknowledge the need to increase Shinedust availability to facilitate trading. While a cost is necessary to prevent account manipulation, the previous system was prohibitively expensive for most players.
Another crucial improvement is the ability to specify desired trade cards, enabling more efficient and successful trades. Currently, players can only list cards for trade without indicating desired cards in return, limiting trading opportunities, especially with strangers.
The community's response to these changes has been largely positive. However, a significant drawback is the irretrievable loss of rare cards already sacrificed for Trade Tokens. While conversion to Shinedust is planned, the discarded cards are permanently lost.
Furthermore, the implementation timeline is a major concern. The changes are not expected until Fall, potentially leading to a trading standstill in the interim due to the current system's unattractiveness. The game may see several expansions before the trading system functions effectively.
For now, it's advisable to hoard your Shinedust.
