The Pokémon Trading Card Game Pocket's new Space Time Smackdown expansion, released January 30th, features a Weavile ex card depicting a scene that has sparked outrage among players. Specifically, the 2-Star full art card shows a group of Weavile poised to attack an unsuspecting Swinub.
This brutal depiction has generated significant online discussion, with many expressing concern and sadness for the Swinub's fate. Reddit posts highlighting the artwork have garnered thousands of upvotes, with comments expressing disbelief and pleading for the Swinub's safety. The perceived violence contrasts with the often-fantastical nature of Pokémon, prompting reflection on the creatures' complex ecosystem.
However, some fans offer a glimmer of hope, pointing to the Mamoswine full art card (Swinub's evolution) as a possible happy ending. This card shows Mamoswine protectively looking upward, seemingly aware of the Weavile's presence. This interpretation provides a degree of comfort to those upset by the Weavile card's imagery.
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Space Time Smackdown, a Diamond and Pearl-themed set, includes 207 cards—smaller than Genetic Apex's 286—but boasts a higher percentage of rare cards (52 alternate art, Star, and Crown rarity cards compared to Genetic Apex's 60). The set features popular Pokémon like Weavile, Mamoswine, Dialga, Palkia, and Giratina.
Despite the controversy, Creatures Inc. has yet to publicly address the negative reaction to the card artwork or the recent trading update. While a "Trade Feature Celebration Gift" was provided, including 500 Trade Tokens and 120 Trade Hourglasses, the developer's silence on fan concerns continues.
