Pokémon TCG Pocket Devs Looking to Improve Trading Following Major Player Backlash

Pokémon TCG Pocket developer Creatures Inc. is actively working to improve the recently launched trading feature, which has faced significant player backlash. In a statement on X/Twitter, Creatures Inc. acknowledged the negative feedback, explaining that while the trading restrictions were intended to prevent abuse, they unintentionally hinder casual enjoyment.

The company pledged to address 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.

This trading system, already criticized for its restrictions on pack openings and Wonder Picking, further complicates matters with the introduction of Trade Tokens. Players have strongly criticized the high cost of acquiring these tokens, requiring the deletion of five cards to trade one of the same rarity.

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Creatures Inc. stated that the item requirements and restrictions were designed to prevent bot abuse and prohibited actions using multiple accounts. Their goal was to balance fairness and the core collecting experience. However, they now recognize that the current restrictions negatively impact casual players. They are actively investigating improvements and plan to offer multiple ways to obtain Trade Tokens, including event distributions.

The statement lacks specifics regarding the nature or timing of these changes, leaving players uncertain. Furthermore, there's no clarification on whether existing trades will be refunded or compensated for should the Trade Token system change. This uncertainty could significantly impact players who utilized the feature early on.

Creatures Inc.'s commitment to event-based Trade Token distribution remains questionable. Only 200 tokens were offered as premium Battle Pass rewards (a $9.99 monthly subscription) on February 1st—enough for a single 3-Diamond card trade. The absence of Trade Tokens in the Cresselia ex Drop Event further fuels player skepticism.

Many players believe the trading mechanics are designed to boost revenue for Pokémon TCG Pocket, which reportedly earned $200 million in its first month before the trading feature's launch. The inability to trade 2-Star or higher rarity cards reinforces this suspicion, as readily trading for missing cards would reduce the need for in-app purchases. One player reported spending approximately $1,500 to complete the first set, highlighting the significant cost involved.

The trading system has been widely criticized as "predatory and downright greedy," "hilariously toxic," and a "monumental failure" by frustrated players.