Pokémon TCG: Space-Time Smackdown Expansion Out Now

Pokémon TCG Pocket's Space Time Smackdown Expansion: A Detailed Look

Pokémon TCG Pocket has launched its latest major update, introducing the Space Time Smackdown expansion, a new set themed around Pokémon Diamond and Pearl. This expansion, available in Dialga and Palkia-themed booster packs, boasts 207 cards, a smaller count than Genetic Apex but with a higher percentage of rare cards (52 alternate art Star and Crown rarity cards compared to Genetic Apex's 60). The base card count, excluding alternate arts, is 155.

Alternate Art 'Secret' Cards in Space Time Smackdown

52 Images

The expansion introduces 10 new ex Pokémon: Yanmega, Infernape, Palkia, Pacharisu, Mismagius, Gallade, Weavile, Darkrai, Dialga, and Lickilicky, covering all Pokémon types except Dragon (Darkness receives two).

A significant addition is the introduction of Pokémon Tool cards: Giant Cape (+20 HP), Rocky Helmet (deals 20 HP to the opponent when the active Pokémon takes damage), and Lum Berry (removes status conditions).

Gameplay Changes

Space Time Smackdown brings new Solo Battles across Intermediate, Advanced, and Expert tiers, featuring Pokémon from the set (Dialga ex, Palkia ex, Togekiss, and others). The multiplayer meta is expected to shift significantly. Cards like Infernape ex (140 damage for two Fire Energy) and Palkia ex (150 damage plus 20 damage to benched Pokémon) are particularly powerful. Dialga ex strengthens Steel-type decks.

Missions and Rewards

New missions reward Pack Hourglasses, Wonder Hourglasses, Emblem Tickets, and more. Collecting signature cards unlocks rental decks, while completing the set unlocks Dialga and Palkia icons. Museum missions focus on 1-Star and 2-Star cards, with a final mission rewarding players for collecting the full art Cynthia card and 1-Star cards of her key Pokémon. Notably, Trading Tokens are not awarded through missions, although a celebratory gift provided 500 Tokens and 120 Trade Hourglasses. New shop items include Dialga and Palkia album covers, the Lovely Hearts backdrop, and a Cynthia-themed Poké Gold bundle.

Trading Update Controversy

The recent trading update remains controversial. Trade Tokens, required for trading cards of 3 Diamonds or higher rarity, are obtained by selling cards. The cost of trading high-rarity cards is high relative to the tokens earned from selling cards, leading to criticism from players. The system's high cost and complexity have been met with significant negative feedback from the community.