Pokémon TCG Pocket's highly anticipated trading update has launched to overwhelmingly negative feedback, exceeding even the initial concerns expressed last week. Players are flooding social media with complaints about excessive requirements and restrictive limitations. While the restrictions were previously disclosed, the demanding resource consumption was only vaguely hinted at.
The trading system necessitates two distinct consumable items per trade. First, players require Trade Stamina, replenishing over time or purchasable with Poké Gold (real money).
The second, and more controversial, requirement is Trade Tokens. These tokens are needed to trade cards of 3 Diamonds or higher rarity: 120 for a 3-Diamond card, 400 for a 1-Star card, and 500 for a 4-Diamond (ex Pokémon) card.
Trade Tokens are obtained solely by deleting cards from one's collection. The exchange rates are heavily skewed against the player, requiring the disposal of multiple high-rarity cards to obtain enough tokens for a single trade. For example, five ex Pokémon must be deleted to trade one, and selling a Crown rarity card (the game's rarest) only yields enough tokens for three ex Pokémon trades. Lower rarity cards are worthless for this purpose.
Overwhelming Negative Reaction
The community's response has been overwhelmingly critical, with many labeling the update a "monumental failure" and "hilariously toxic." Players are expressing deep frustration over the excessive costs and the time-consuming process of converting cards to tokens (approximately 15 seconds per conversion). Many Reddit posts echo sentiments of betrayal, with players vowing to cease spending on the game. Some suggest renaming the game, given the impracticality of its trading system.
Revenue Generation Concerns
The trading system's design strongly suggests a focus on revenue generation. The inability to easily trade high-rarity cards (2-Star and above) ensures players are incentivized to purchase packs repeatedly for a chance to obtain desired cards, rather than relying on trading. One player reported spending approximately $1,500 to complete the first set.
The lack of alternative methods to acquire Trade Tokens further exacerbates the issue. Players are forced into a cycle of purchasing packs, hoping for duplicates to sell for tokens, then using those tokens to trade for missing cards.
Creatures Inc.'s Silence
Creatures Inc. has remained silent on the widespread criticism, despite previously acknowledging concerns. IGN has reached out for comment but has yet to receive a response. While the addition of Trade Tokens as mission rewards could alleviate some concerns, the current system is widely considered unsustainable and predatory. This negative reception casts a shadow over the upcoming Diamond and Pearl update, introducing Pokémon like Dialga and Palkia.
