The Pokémon TCG Pocket developers, DeNA, have promised improvements to the game's trading feature following significant player backlash. Let's examine the reasons behind the player complaints.
Pokémon TCG Pocket's Trading Feature: A Source of Frustration
Launched on January 29, 2025, the much-anticipated trading feature allows players to exchange 1-4 star rarity cards from Genetic Apex and Mythical Island booster packs. While a welcome addition for Pokédex completionists, the feature's limitations—restricted card selection, a new in-game currency, and high trading costs—sparked widespread dissatisfaction. DeNA acknowledged the negative feedback in a February 1st, 2025, Twitter (X) post, pledging to improve the system.
The primary complaint centers on the exorbitant cost of trade tokens, the currency required for trading. These tokens are obtained by sacrificing higher-rarity cards, creating a frustrating loop. For example, trading a 4-Diamond card demands 500 tokens, while selling a 1-Star card yields only 100. This forces players to "burn" multiple rare cards to facilitate even a single trade. DeNA plans to address this by adding alternative ways to acquire tokens, including through in-game events. Currently, only 1-4 star cards are tradeable.
DeNA explained the stringent rules as a preventative measure against botting and multi-account abuse, aiming to maintain a fair and enjoyable experience for all players. While further changes are yet to be announced, it's likely that DeNA is carefully considering potential exploits before implementing updates.
Genetic Apex Booster Packs: A Case of Misunderstanding?
Following the January 29, 2025 release of the Space-Time Smackdown booster packs, some players reported the disappearance of Genetic Apex packs. This concern, voiced on Reddit, stemmed from the home screen only displaying Mythical Island and Space-Time Smackdown options.
However, Genetic Apex packs remain accessible via a less prominent "Select other booster packs" option in the bottom-right corner. While understandable given the small and easily overlooked text, the situation highlights a potential design flaw. Some players speculated this was a deliberate marketing tactic to push the new packs, a theory further fueled by the fact that not all players have completed the Genetic Apex set. Players have suggested a homescreen update to display all three booster pack sets to avoid future confusion. DeNA has yet to directly address this issue.
