Pokémon TCG Pocket's trading feature, launched last week, is facing significant player backlash. Creatures Inc., the developer, acknowledged the negative feedback in an X/Twitter statement, admitting that while the restrictions were intended to prevent abuse, they inadvertently hinder casual enjoyment.
The statement promised future event rewards including Trade Tokens, a controversial in-game currency required for trading. However, this promise was immediately broken; the February 3rd Cresselia ex Drop Event offered no Trade Tokens.
The trading system, already criticized for its restrictive mechanics (limiting pack openings and Wonder Picking without in-app purchases), further complicates matters with the high cost of Trade Tokens. Players must delete five cards of the same rarity to obtain one Trade Token, leading to accusations of predatory monetization.
Every Alternate Art 'Secret' Card in Pokémon TCG Pocket: Space Time Smackdown
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Creatures Inc. clarified that the restrictions aimed to combat bot activity and multi-account abuse. However, the developer admitted the current system negatively impacts casual players and pledged to improve the trading feature. Details regarding these improvements remain undisclosed.
The lack of clarity extends to potential refunds or compensation for players who traded under the current, heavily criticized system. The limited availability of Trade Tokens (200 offered as a premium Battle Pass reward) further fuels player discontent. The absence of Trade Tokens in the Cresselia ex event directly contradicts the developer's recent statement.
The controversy highlights concerns that the trading mechanic primarily serves to boost revenue for Pokémon TCG Pocket, which reportedly generated $200 million in its first month. The inability to trade higher-rarity cards (2-star and above) reinforces this perception, as it forces players to spend significant amounts on packs for a chance to obtain desired cards. One player reported spending approximately $1,500 to complete the first set.
Players have expressed strong negative opinions, describing the trading mechanic as "predatory," "toxic," and a "monumental failure."
