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. The developer is actively investigating improvements to the system.

Players received the tokens silently in their Gift menu. However, Creatures Inc. issued a statement on X/Twitter expressing gratitude for player feedback and patience. The trading feature's initial release was met with significant criticism, with many players labeling the system as "hilariously toxic," "predatory," and "downright greedy."

The trading mechanic, like other aspects of Pokémon TCG Pocket, incorporates restrictions limiting pack openings, Wonder Picking, and trading frequency without in-app purchases. The high cost of acquiring Trade Tokens – requiring the deletion of five cards to trade one of similar rarity – drew considerable ire from the player base.

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Over a week after the controversial launch, Creatures Inc. acknowledged that the implemented restrictions hinder casual enjoyment of the trading feature. While the developer promised to address these issues by offering necessary items as rewards in future events, the recent Cresselia ex Drop Event (February 3rd) failed to deliver on this promise.

Many believe the trading system is designed to boost revenue for Pokémon TCG Pocket, which reportedly generated $200 million in its first month, before trading was introduced. This suspicion is fueled by the inability to trade cards of 2-Star rarity or higher, a restriction that forces players to spend significant sums ($10, $100, or more) for a chance at obtaining these rarer cards. One player reported spending approximately $1,500 to complete the first set. The third set launched last week.