Pokémon TCG Pocket Dev Gifts Players Trade Tokens But Still Doesn't Have Answers to Fix Controversial Feature

Pokémon TCG Pocket developer Creatures Inc. has gifted players 1,000 Trade Tokens—enough for only two significant trades—as it continues to address concerns surrounding the recently implemented trading mechanic. Players logging in will find these tokens in their Gift menu. Creatures Inc. acknowledged player feedback on X/Twitter, expressing gratitude for patience.

The trading feature's launch was met with significant criticism. Players labeled the system "hilariously toxic," "predatory," and "downright greedy," citing its restrictive nature and high cost of obtaining Trade Tokens. The mechanic requires players to delete five cards from their collection to trade one of the same rarity.

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A week after the controversial release, Creatures Inc. acknowledged that restrictions were hindering casual enjoyment of the trading feature. While promising to address these issues by offering required 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 stems from the inability to trade cards of 2-Star rarity or higher, a restriction that seemingly encourages players to spend money on packs for a chance to obtain rare cards. One player reported spending approximately $1,500 to complete the first set, with the third set arriving just last week.