Pokémon TCG: Devs Address Player Concerns Over Trading

Pokémon TCG Pocket developer Creatures Inc. is actively investigating improvements to its trading feature, launched last week to considerable player backlash. A statement on X/Twitter acknowledged player feedback, explaining the trading feature's restrictions were intended to prevent abuse. However, Creatures Inc. admitted these restrictions hinder casual enjoyment.

The company promised to address complaints by offering Trade Tokens as event rewards. This promise was immediately broken, as the February 3rd Cresselia ex Drop Event contained no Trade Tokens.

The trading system, already criticized for limiting pack openings and Wonder Picking without in-app purchases, further restricts trading via Trade Tokens. Players decry the high cost of obtaining these tokens; five cards must be deleted 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. The goal, they claimed, was to balance gameplay while maintaining fairness and preserving the core collecting aspect of the game. However, they now acknowledge that the restrictions negatively impact casual players. Future improvements are promised, including multiple ways to obtain Trade Tokens through events.

The statement lacks specifics regarding changes or timelines. Uncertainty remains about refunds or compensation for players who traded under the current system. Changes to Trade Token costs could disproportionately affect early adopters.

Creatures Inc.'s commitment to event-based Trade Token distribution is questionable. Only 200 tokens were offered as premium Battle Pass rewards (a $9.99 monthly subscription) on February 1st—enough for one 3-Diamond card trade. The Cresselia ex Drop Event also failed to include any Trade Tokens.

Players suspect the trading mechanic is designed to boost revenue. Pokémon TCG Pocket reportedly earned $200 million in its first month, before the trading feature. The inability to trade 2-Star or higher rarity cards further fuels this suspicion, as it encourages players to spend money on packs for a chance to obtain rare cards. One player reportedly spent $1,500 to complete the first set.

The trading mechanic has been widely criticized as "predatory and downright greedy," "hilariously toxic," and a "monumental failure."