DeNA, the developers behind Pokemon TCG Pocket, have committed to revamping the game's trading feature following a wave of player dissatisfaction. Dive into the details to understand the root of the community's concerns.
Pokemon TCG Pocket Players’ Complaints About the Game’s Latest Update
The trading feature introduced in Pokemon TCG Pocket on January 29, 2025, has stirred significant discontent among its player base, leading DeNA to pledge improvements via a Twitter (X) post on February 1, 2025. This feature, while allowing for the exchange of 1-4 Diamond and 1-Star rarity cards from the Genetic Apex and Mythical Island booster packs, came with limitations that have not sat well with players. These include a restricted selection of cards, the introduction of a new in-game currency, and a steep trading cost, all of which have sparked frustration among those eager to complete their Poke Dex.
In response to the backlash, DeNA announced they are "actively investigating ways to improve the feature to address these concerns." One proposed solution is to diversify the methods for obtaining trade tokens, such as through event distributions. Currently, the system limits trading to 1-Star cards, and trade tokens, essential for facilitating trades, are earned by sacrificing cards of higher rarity. For example, trading a 4-Diamond card (an ex Pokemon) demands 500 tokens, yet players can only acquire 100 tokens for a 1-Star card and 300 for 2-Star and 3-Star cards, despite their higher rarity than a 4-Diamond card. This forces players to sacrifice rare or multiple cards just to participate in trades.
DeNA has justified the stringent rules and restrictions by stating that they are "designed to prevent abuse from bots and other prohibited actions using multiple accounts." The goal, they explained, is to "balance the game while maintaining a fair environment for all players and preserving the fun of collecting cards that is core to the Pokemon TCG Pocket experience." While further updates to the trading feature remain undisclosed, it appears the developers are taking time to ensure any changes prevent potential exploits.
Genetic Apex Seemingly Disappears After Space-Time Smackdown’s Release
Another issue that has come to light involves the release of the Space-Time Smackdown booster packs on January 29, 2025. Some players expressed concern on Reddit about the apparent disappearance of Genetic Apex booster packs, as the home screen now only displays the Mythical Island and Space-Time Smackdown options. However, this is a misconception; players can access the Genetic Apex packs by navigating to the "Select other booster packs" option at the bottom right corner of the pack selection screen. The small text may have contributed to the confusion.
While some attribute this to poor design, others speculate it might be a marketing tactic to encourage the opening of newer packs. Yet, not all players have completed their collections from the game's initial booster pack. Suggestions have been made for DeNA to update the home screen to display all three sets, thereby preventing further confusion. Although DeNA has not yet addressed this issue, this clarification should help players continue their efforts to complete the Genetic Apex booster packs using their time and hourglasses.
