Pokémon TCG Pocket's Space Time Smackdown Expansion: A Detailed Look
Pokémon TCG Pocket has just received a major update introducing the Space Time Smackdown expansion, themed around Pokémon Diamond and Pearl. This new set, available in Dialga and Palkia themed booster packs, boasts 207 cards, a smaller count than Genetic Apex but with a higher percentage of rare cards (52 alternate art Star and Crown rarity cards compared to Genetic Apex's 60). The official card count, excluding alternate arts, is 155, featuring 10 new ex Pokémon (Yanmega, Infernape, Palkia, Pacharisu, Mismagius, Gallade, Weavile, Darkrai, Dialga, and Lickilicky), covering all types except Dragon (Darkness has two).
Alternate Art 'Secret' Cards: A Glimpse
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A significant addition is the introduction of Pokémon Tool cards: Giant Cape (+20 HP), Rocky Helmet (20 HP damage to opponent on damage taken), and Lum Berry (removes status conditions).
New Battles and Meta Shifts
Space Time Smackdown introduces new Solo Battles across Intermediate, Advanced, and Expert tiers, featuring Pokémon like Dialga ex, Palkia ex, and others. The multiplayer meta is expected to shift significantly. Infernape ex's powerful 140 damage attack (though discarding energy), Palkia ex's 150 damage attack with additional bench damage, and Weavile ex's variable damage attack are key cards to watch. Steel-type decks are anticipated to receive a boost with the addition of Dialga ex and other supporting cards.
Missions and Rewards: A Familiar Structure, New Cosmetics
New missions, similar to previous iterations, reward Pack Hourglasses, Wonder Hourglasses, Emblem Tickets, and more (notably excluding Trading Tokens, though a celebratory gift of 500 was provided). Rewards include Dialga and Palkia album covers and a Lovely Hearts backdrop. A new Poké Gold bundle featuring Cynthia replaces the Gardevoir bundle.
The Controversial Trading Update: A Community Backlash
The recent trading update remains controversial. Trade Tokens, required for trading cards of 3 Diamonds or higher, are obtained by selling cards. The required token amounts are high, leading to criticism from players who find the system overly laborious and counterintuitive. The community has voiced strong negative feedback regarding the implementation of the trading system.
