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 addressed player concerns regarding the recently implemented trading mechanic by gifting players 1,000 Trade Tokens. This is enough for only two substantial trades, a temporary measure while the developer continues to refine the system.

Players will find the Trade Tokens in their in-game Gift menu. Creatures Inc. acknowledged player feedback and apologized for the initial implementation on X/Twitter. The trading feature, introduced last week, was met with significant criticism, with many players describing the mechanics as "hilariously toxic," "predatory," and "downright greedy."

The trading system, like other aspects of Pokémon TCG Pocket, incorporates restrictions designed to encourage in-app purchases. Players initially faced a high cost for trading, requiring the deletion of five cards to trade one of the same rarity. This, along with the inability to trade cards of 2-Star rarity or higher, fueled the controversy. Many players felt this mechanic was designed to maximize revenue.

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The backlash followed an earlier statement from Creatures Inc. assuring players that their concerns were being addressed and inviting feedback. However, the initial implementation fell short of expectations. Creatures Inc. subsequently acknowledged that the restrictions hindered casual enjoyment of the trading feature and promised to alleviate these issues through future events. However, the recent Cresselia ex Drop Event (February 3rd) did not include the promised rewards, further fueling player discontent.

The criticism highlights concerns that the trading system is primarily designed to boost revenue for Pokémon TCG Pocket, a game estimated to have generated $200 million in its first month, before the trading feature was even available. The inability to easily trade higher-rarity cards forces players to spend significant sums on packs for a chance to obtain them, as evidenced by one player's reported $1,500 expenditure to complete a single set.