Pokemon TCG Pocket Enhances Trading Amid Fans' Criticism

Pokemon TCG Pocket developers DeNA have pledged to improve the trading feature following significant player dissatisfaction. The controversy stems from limitations in the recently launched trading system.

Community Outcry Over Trading System Changes

The long-awaited trading feature launched on January 29, 2025, but quickly drew criticism for its restrictive mechanics. While allowing trades for 1-4 Diamond and 1-Star rarity cards from Genetic Apex and Mythical Island packs, the system introduced complex requirements players found frustrating.

In a February 1 statement, DeNA acknowledged player concerns and committed to improving the feature. Developers revealed plans to expand trade token availability beyond the current system where players must sacrifice high-value cards to obtain tokens.

The current configuration requires excessive sacrifices - trading a 4-Diamond card demands 500 tokens, yet players only receive 100 tokens for 1-Star cards or 300 for higher-rarity immersive cards. This creates an unbalanced economy that forces players to destroy valuable collections for basic trades.

DeNA justified the strict rules as necessary bot prevention measures: "The trading restrictions were implemented to combat abuse from automated accounts while preserving collection integrity and fair play - core principles of Pokemon TCG Pocket."

Booster Pack Availability Confusion

Another issue emerged with the January 29 Space-Time Smackdown release, as some players couldn't locate Genetic Apex packs on the home screen. The packs remain accessible through a small "Select other booster packs" option, though many overlooked this inconspicuous interface element.

While some speculated this was a marketing tactic to promote new packs, the visibility issue primarily stems from interface design choices. Players suggested a clearer presentation of all available booster sets to prevent future confusion.

Though DeNA hasn't officially addressed the navigation concerns, understanding the pack selection mechanism helps players continue collecting from all available sets using their accumulated hourglasses.