Following widespread criticism from players, developer DeNA has pledged enhancements to Pokemon TCG Pocket's trading system. Here's why trainers voiced frustrations about the newly implemented feature.
Player Concerns Regarding Recent Pokemon TCG Pocket Update
Trade Token Acquisition Proves Overly Demanding
The launch of Pokemon TCG Pocket's trading feature on January 29, 2025 sparked immediate backlash, forcing DeNA to announce planned adjustments via Twitter/X on February 1, 2025.
While enabling trades of 1-4 Diamond and 1-Star rarity cards from Genetic Apex and Mythical Island boosters, the system's limitations (narrow card selection, new currency requirements, and steep costs) frustrated many collectors attempting to complete their Pokedex.
DeNA responded to criticism by stating they're "exploring improvements to address player concerns," including plans to "introduce additional methods for obtaining trade tokens through special events." Current restrictions only permit 1-Star card exchanges.
The token system requires sacrificing higher-rarity cards - yielding 100 tokens for 1-Star, 300 for 2-Star/3-Star Immersive cards. Trading a 4-Diamond EX Pokemon demands 500 tokens, forcing collectors to dismantle valuable collections.
DeNA defended their strict implementation, explaining: "Trade restrictions were established to prevent bot abuse and multi-account exploitation while maintaining fair gameplay. Our priority remains preserving the collecting experience central to Pokemon TCG Pocket."
While promising changes, DeNA hasn't revealed specific modifications, suggesting they're carefully evaluating potential system exploits before issuing updates.
Genetic Apex Visibility Issues After New Release
The January 29th Space-Time Smackdown booster release triggered additional complaints when players noticed Genetic Apex packs seemingly disappeared from the home screen, replaced by Mythical Island and the new set.
However, trainers can still access Genetic Apex packs via the easily-missed "Select other booster packs" option in the bottom-right corner. Many players overlooked this subtle interface element.
Some trainers suspect this questionable UI choice intentionally promotes newer boosters. While strategically sound for marketing, it disadvantages players still collecting from the original set. Suggestions have emerged requesting all three boosters receive equal home screen visibility.
Though DeNA hasn't formally addressed these visibility concerns, clarification confirms trainers can continue pursuing Genetic Apex completion using their accumulated hourglasses.
