Pokémon TCG Pocket Has No Plans To Go Competitive

Pokémon TCG Pocket Remains Outside the Competitive Arena for Now

The Pokémon Company has confirmed that Pokémon TCG Pocket is not currently slated for inclusion in its competitive esports circuit. This was revealed by Chris Brown, Director of eSports, in a recent VGC interview (February 25, 2025). While Brown stated they continuously evaluate potential titles for competitive play, Pokémon TCG Pocket isn't on the immediate horizon. He even playfully mentioned Pokémon Sleep as another unlikely candidate, referencing a past April Fool's joke about a Pokémon Sleep championship.

Reasons for Exclusion: Early Stages and Balancing Concerns

While no official reasons were given, fan speculation points towards the game's relative youth (only four months old with two sets released since its October 2024 launch) and ongoing balance issues. Although in-app competitive features exist, players have voiced concerns about game balance. The simplified nature of Pokémon TCG Pocket, designed for a more casual audience, further suggests that competitive play wasn't a primary design goal.

The Pokémon Competitive Circuit remains robust, encompassing Pokémon TCG, Pokémon GO, Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, and Pokémon Unite, all set to feature prominently in the upcoming Pokémon World Championships in Anaheim, California, August 2025.

Upcoming Pokémon Presents: Potential for New Information

The next Pokémon Presents event could offer a glimpse into the future of Pokémon TCG Pocket. With the recent release of the Space Time Smackdown set (January 30, 2025), anticipation is high for a new set announcement. While the livestream's contents remain unconfirmed, many fans hope for significant franchise news, including updates on Pokémon Legends: Z-A (previously announced for 2025 release) and the recently announced mega evolutions. The February 27, 2025, Pokémon Presents livestream (6 AM PT / 9 AM ET) on YouTube and Twitch is highly anticipated.