The Pokémon TCG Pocket developers, DeNA, have pledged improvements to the game's trading feature following significant player backlash. Let's examine the reasons behind the player complaints.
Pokémon TCG Pocket: Player Complaints Regarding the Latest Update
The High Cost of Trade Tokens
Launched on January 29, 2025, the much-anticipated trading feature allows players to exchange 1-4 star rarity cards from Genetic Apex and Mythical Island booster packs. While a welcome addition for Pokédex completionists, the feature's limitations—restricted card selection, a new in-game currency, and exorbitant trading costs—have sparked considerable dissatisfaction. DeNA acknowledged this negative feedback in a February 1, 2025, Twitter (X) post, promising future improvements.
DeNA's response indicates they are actively exploring solutions to these concerns, including alternative methods for acquiring trade tokens, potentially through in-game events. Currently, trading is limited to 1-star cards, and obtaining the necessary trade tokens requires sacrificing higher-rarity cards, creating an inefficient and frustrating system. For example, trading a 4-Diamond card demands 500 tokens, while selling a 1-star card yields only 100, forcing players to repeatedly sacrifice rare cards.
DeNA explained the stringent rules as a preventative measure against bot abuse and multi-account exploitation, aiming to maintain a fair and enjoyable experience for all players. While further details on upcoming changes remain undisclosed, this suggests a focus on addressing potential exploits before implementing broader improvements.
The Apparent Disappearance of Genetic Apex After Space-Time Smackdown's Release
Another source of player frustration stems from the January 29, 2025, release of Space-Time Smackdown booster packs. Some players reported on Reddit that Genetic Apex packs had vanished from the home screen, replaced by Mythical Island and Space-Time Smackdown packs.
This concern, however, is unfounded. Genetic Apex packs remain accessible via a small, easily overlooked "Select other booster packs" option in the bottom-right corner. While this oversight highlights a potential design flaw, some players interpreted it as a deliberate attempt to promote the newer packs. This is particularly problematic for players who haven't yet completed the Genetic Apex set. Players have suggested a home screen update to clearly display all three booster pack options to prevent future confusion. DeNA has yet to address this issue directly.
