Pokémon TCG Pocket Trading Launches—Fans React Poorly

Pokémon TCG Pocket's new trading feature has sparked considerable discontent among the community, prompting a response from developer Creatures Inc. The announced trading restrictions, which prevent the exchange of cards with 2 Star rarity and higher, have left fans frustrated as many of their coveted cards cannot be traded. The available trading options are limited to specific cards from select booster packs, and cards can only be exchanged between friends, maintaining rarity parity. Additionally, players must consume items to trade, raising concerns about monetization within the popular mobile title. Despite these limitations, trading is positioned as a means to enhance the gaming experience while also possibly serving the developers’ financial interests, given the game's impressive revenue generation since its release.

Trading in Pokémon TCG Pocket will allow players to exchange cards with friends, but there are strict limitations. Cards of 2 Star rarity and above cannot be traded, and only specific cards from certain booster packs will qualify for trading. Additionally, players need to consume items, which may involve real-world spending, to make trades.

Pokémon TCG Pocket launched on October 30, 2023, and quickly gained popularity, reportedly earning $200 million within its first month. The game follows the classic trading card format while enhancing it with digital features suitable for mobile gameplay, encouraging players to collect cards while providing a freemium model that leverages in-game purchases.