Pokémon TCG Pocket's Space Time Smackdown Expansion: A New Era for the Mobile Game
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). The core set contains 155 cards, excluding alternate art.
New Cards and Mechanics:
The expansion introduces 10 new ex Pokémon (Yanmega, Infernape, Palkia, Pacharisu, Mismagius, Gallade, Weavile, Darkrai, Dialga, and Lickilicky), covering every Pokémon type except Dragon (Darkness receives two). A significant addition is the introduction of Pokémon Tool cards: Giant Cape (+20 HP), Rocky Helmet (20 HP damage to opponent on damage taken), and Lum Berry (removes status conditions).
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Updated Gameplay:
Space Time Smackdown adds new Solo Battles across Intermediate, Advanced, and Expert tiers, featuring Pokémon from the set (Dialga ex, Palkia ex, Togekiss, and others). The meta is expected to shift significantly, with cards like Infernape ex (high damage output) and Palkia ex (area-of-effect damage) posing considerable threats. Steel-type decks are anticipated to receive a substantial boost with the addition of Dialga ex and other supporting cards.
Missions and Rewards:
New missions offer familiar rewards: Pack Hourglasses, Wonder Hourglasses, Emblem Tickets. 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 Cynthia full art card and 1-Star cards of her key Pokémon. The shop includes new items like Dialga and Palkia album covers and a Cynthia-themed Poké Gold bundle. A "Trade Feature Celebration Gift" provided 500 Trade Tokens and 120 Trade Hourglasses.
Controversial Trading System:
The recent trading update remains controversial. Trade Tokens, required for trading higher-rarity cards, are obtained by selling cards. The high cost of trading high-value cards (especially ex Pokémon) has drawn significant criticism from players, who view the system as overly restrictive and counterintuitive. The developer, Creatures Inc., has yet to address these concerns publicly.
