The Pokémon Trading Card Game (PTCGO) Space Time Smackdown expansion, released January 30th, features a Weavile ex card with artwork depicting a brutal 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. Reddit posts highlighting the image have garnered significant attention, with fans expressing concern and dismay over the depiction of Pokémon violence. One post, titled "NO ! SWINUB LOOK UP !! LOOK UP !!", highlights the scene's graphic nature, echoing the sentiment of many who find the artwork disturbing. Comments range from pleas for the Swinub's safety to observations on the often-unpredictable ecology within the Pokémon world, noting the juxtaposition of seemingly innocent creatures with the ability to wield powerful attacks.
However, some fans offer a glimmer of hope, pointing to the Mamoswine full art card as a possible happy ending. This card shows Mamoswine protectively looking upwards, seemingly aware of the Weavile and safeguarding a group of Swinub. This interpretation provides a measure of comfort to those upset by the Weavile ex card's imagery.
Space Time Smackdown, a Diamond and Pearl-themed set, includes 207 cards—smaller than Genetic Apex's 286, but boasting a higher percentage (52 out of 207) of alternate art, Star, and Crown rarity cards compared to Genetic Apex's 60 out of 286. The set features popular Pokémon like Dialga, Palkia, and Giratina alongside Weavile and Mamoswine.
Despite the controversy surrounding the Weavile ex artwork and a recent controversial trading update, Creatures Inc. has yet to issue a public statement. While a "Trade Feature Celebration Gift" offering 500 Trade Tokens and 120 Trade Hourglasses was distributed, the company remains silent on fan concerns and has not responded to requests for comment.
