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

Creatures Inc., the developer of Pokémon Trading Card Game Pocket, has issued 1,000 Trade Tokens to players – enough for only two substantial trades – while continuing to address issues with the game's controversial trading mechanic.

Players logging in today will find these tokens in their Gift menu without any accompanying message. However, Creatures Inc. posted on X/Twitter to acknowledge player feedback and express gratitude for their patience. The developer faced significant criticism last week, with accusations of being "hilariously toxic," "predatory," and "downright greedy" following the trading feature's release.

The trading system, like other aspects of Pokémon TCG Pocket, incorporates restrictions limiting pack openings, Wonder Picking, and now trading, unless players spend real money. The high cost of acquiring Trade Tokens – requiring the deletion of five cards to trade one of similar rarity – drew considerable backlash.

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A week after the release and significant negative player response, Creatures Inc. acknowledged that the implemented restrictions hindered casual enjoyment of the trading feature. While the developer promised to address concerns by offering necessary items as rewards in future events, the Cresselia ex Drop Event (released February 3rd) failed to deliver on this promise.

Many players believe the trading system is designed to boost revenue for Pokémon TCG Pocket, which reportedly generated $200 million in its first month, before trading was introduced. This suspicion is fueled by the inability to trade cards of 2-Star rarity or higher, suggesting a deliberate strategy to encourage players to spend money for a chance at obtaining rare cards. One player reported spending approximately $1,500 to complete the first set, highlighting the potentially high costs involved. The third set was released last week.