Pokémon Trading Relaunch To Address Player Concerns

Pokémon TCG Pocket's Trading Feature Under Fire: Developer Promises Improvements

Creatures Inc., the developer behind Pokémon Trading Card Game Pocket, is addressing significant player backlash regarding the recently launched trading feature. A statement on X/Twitter acknowledged the negative feedback, explaining that while the initial design aimed to prevent trading abuse, "some restrictions…are preventing players from casually enjoying" the feature.

The developer pledged to alleviate concerns by offering Trade Tokens as rewards in future events. However, this promise was immediately contradicted by the February 3rd Cresselia ex Drop Event, which notably lacked Trade Tokens.

The trading system's controversial aspects include Trade Tokens, requiring players to delete five cards of the same rarity to trade one. This, coupled with existing in-app purchase limitations on pack openings and Wonder Picking, has fueled accusations of a pay-to-play model.

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Creatures Inc. clarified that the restrictions were intended to combat bot activity and multi-account abuse. However, the statement lacked specifics on upcoming changes or timelines, leaving players uncertain about the future of the trading system. Further uncertainty surrounds potential refunds or compensation for players who traded under the current, heavily criticized system.

The limited availability of Trade Tokens further fuels player frustration. Only 200 were offered as premium Battle Pass rewards (a $9.99 monthly subscription), sufficient for trading a single 3-Diamond card. The absence of Trade Tokens in the Cresselia ex event directly contradicts the developer's recent promises.

Player criticism has been intense, with many labeling the trading mechanic "predatory," "greedy," and a "monumental failure." The inability to trade cards above 2-Star rarity is seen as a deliberate tactic to encourage in-app purchases, as completing sets without trading requires significant financial investment (one player reported spending $1,500 to complete a single set). The game's reported $200 million revenue in its first month, prior to the trading feature, adds fuel to these accusations.