Pokémon TCG Revamps Trading System in "Pocket Backlash" Update

Pokemon TCG Pocket's Trading Feature Faces Backlash, Prompts Developer Response

DeNA, the developer of Pokemon TCG Pocket, has pledged improvements to the game's recently implemented trading feature following significant player criticism. The controversy centers around the perceived high cost and restrictive nature of the system.

High Cost of Trade Tokens Fuels Player Dissatisfaction

The trading feature, launched January 29th, 2025, allows players to exchange 1-4 Star rarity cards from Genetic Apex and Mythical Island booster packs. However, the required "trade tokens" are proving difficult to acquire.

Players can only obtain tokens by sacrificing higher-rarity cards, creating a system where obtaining enough tokens for desirable trades often necessitates discarding valuable cards. For example, trading a 4-Diamond card requires 500 tokens, while selling even higher-rarity cards yields significantly fewer tokens. This has led to widespread frustration among players aiming to complete their Pokedex.

In response to the negative feedback, DeNA announced (February 1st, 2025) that they are exploring solutions, including alternative methods for acquiring trade tokens, such as event distributions. The developer also clarified that the stringent rules were implemented to mitigate bot activity and account abuse.

Genetic Apex Booster Pack Accessibility Concerns

A separate issue arose with the release of the Space-Time Smackdown booster packs on January 29th, 2025. Some players reported the disappearance of the Genetic Apex packs from the main screen.

While the Genetic Apex packs remain accessible via a less prominent "Select other booster packs" option, the poor visibility led to confusion and speculation that the packs had been removed. Players suggested improving the home screen display to avoid similar misunderstandings in the future.

While DeNA has not yet directly addressed this specific concern, the clarification regarding the continued availability of Genetic Apex packs should alleviate some player anxieties. The developer's commitment to addressing player concerns surrounding both the trading system and user interface issues suggests potential future updates.