Creatures Inc., the developer behind Pokémon Trading Card Game Pocket, is currently "exploring options to enhance" its recently launched trading feature after facing significant player backlash.
In an official statement on X/Twitter, Creatures Inc. acknowledged player feedback, explaining that while the trading system's restrictions were implemented to prevent abuse, they unintentionally hindered casual player enjoyment.
The company pledged to introduce Trade Tokens as event rewards moving forward, though its first opportunity - today's Cresselia ex Drop Event (February 3) - notably lacks these promised tokens.
Beyond Pokémon TCG Pocket's existing monetization mechanics (limiting pack openings, Wonder Picks, and now trades), the trading feature introduced additional hurdles through Trade Tokens. Players expressed frustration with the steep cost - requiring the deletion of five same-rarity cards just to trade one.
All Alternate Art Secret Cards in Pokémon TCG Pocket: Space Time Smackdown
52 Images
"We designed these trading requirements to combat botting and multi-account abuse," Creatures Inc. stated. "Our intention was protecting game balance while preserving Pokémon TCG Pocket's core card-collecting experience.
"However, we recognize certain restrictions overshot their mark. We're evaluating adjustments and will provide additional Token acquisition methods, including through future events."
The announcement remains intentionally vague, confirming only that developer awareness exists without detailing specific changes or timelines.
Players face further uncertainty regarding potential compensation for early adopters - if Trade Token requirements change, those who traded during launch week might suffer disproportionate losses.
Creatures Inc.'s commitment appears questionable; February's $9.99 Battle Pass offered merely 200 Tokens (enough for one 3-Diamond trade), while today's Cresselia event delivered none despite yesterday's promise.
The community perceives trading as a transparent revenue tactic for Pokémon TCG Pocket, which reportedly earned $200 million pre-trading launch.
This suspicion intensifies with the ban on trading 2-Star+ rarity cards - eliminating opportunities to complete collections without expensive random pulls. One player reportedly spent $1,500 completing Set 1, with Set 3 launching mere days ago.
Players widely condemned the system, labeling it "predatory," "exploitative," and "a staggering disappointment."
