The Pokémon Company confirms no immediate plans to integrate Pokémon TCG Pocket into its competitive esports scene. This decision, revealed by eSports Director Chris Brown in a recent VGC interview (February 25, 2025), doesn't preclude future consideration, but currently, there are no concrete plans. Brown playfully referenced the "Pokémon Sleep Champion Tournament" April Fool's joke, highlighting the company's open-mindedness towards expanding competitive offerings, but emphasizing that Pokémon TCG Pocket isn't currently on the roster.
While no official reasons have been given for excluding Pokémon TCG Pocket, several fan theories exist. The game's relative youth (only four months old as of February 2025, with two sets released since its October 2024 launch) is a significant factor. Although in-app competitive features exist, ongoing balancing issues remain a concern for players. Furthermore, Pokémon TCG Pocket's simplified mechanics, designed for accessibility, may not align perfectly with the demands of a high-stakes competitive environment.
Despite this, the Pokémon Competitive Circuit remains robust, encompassing Pokémon TCG, Pokémon GO, Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, and Pokémon Unite. These titles will all feature prominently at the upcoming Pokémon World Championships in Anaheim, California, in August 2025. For the latest on Pokémon TCG Pocket, visit our dedicated game page.
The upcoming Pokémon Presents (February 27, 2025) might unveil a new set for Pokémon TCG Pocket, following the January 30, 2025 release of Space Time Smackdown. While the event's agenda remains undisclosed, anticipation is high for major franchise announcements. This includes potential news on Pokémon Legends: Z-A, previously slated for a 2025 release, and recently announced Mega Evolutions. The Pokémon Presents livestream, airing at 6 AM PT / 9 AM ET on YouTube and Twitch, could offer valuable insights into the company's broader strategic plans. Learn more about Pokémon Day 2025 on our dedicated event page.
