Pokémon TCG Pocket Dev Gifts Players Trade Tokens But Still Doesn't Have Answers to Fix Controversial Feature

Pokémon TCG Pocket developer, Creatures Inc., has issued 1,000 Trade Tokens to players – enough for only two substantial trades – while continuing to address issues with the controversial trading mechanic.

Players logging in today will find these tokens in their Gift menu without explanation. However, Creatures Inc. posted on X/Twitter expressing gratitude for player feedback and patience. The developer faced significant criticism last week, with the trading feature described as "hilariously toxic," "predatory," and "downright greedy."

The trading system, similar to other in-game mechanics, restricts players from excessive pack openings, Wonder Picking, and trading without in-app purchases. The introduction of Trade Tokens further amplified these restrictions. Players heavily criticized the high cost of acquiring these tokens, requiring the deletion of five cards to trade one of equal rarity.

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Eight days after the trading feature's release and the subsequent backlash, Creatures Inc. acknowledged player dissatisfaction, which was foreshadowed by their earlier comments almost three weeks prior. Their previous statement, "Your concerns are seen... I'd like to invite everyone to try it and provide feedback," led many to anticipate a more positive outcome.

Creatures Inc. later conceded that "some restrictions... are preventing players from casually enjoying" trading. They promised to address concerns by offering necessary items as rewards in future events, a promise broken by the February 3rd Cresselia ex Drop Event, which lacked such rewards.

Players argue that the trading implementation primarily serves to boost revenue for Pokémon TCG Pocket, a game estimated to have generated $200 million in its first month, before the trading feature. This is further supported by the inability to trade 2-Star rarity cards or higher, preventing players from easily acquiring missing cards and encouraging in-app purchases. One player reported spending approximately $1,500 to complete the first set, with the third set released just last week.