Since the release of Pokémon TCG Pocket, a trading feature has been hinted at in the Social Hub, currently marked with a “coming soon” banner. An update in December revealed that trading is set to debut in January, generating excitement as leaks emerged about the cards available for trading and the specifics of how this feature will be integrated into the game. This has sparked considerable curiosity among players regarding the mechanics of trading, including what types of cards will be eligible, the frequency of trades, and, importantly, the exact date this feature will launch.

The Pokémon franchise has always been anchored in the concept of trading, from its inception in the 90s through its main series games, physical Pokémon TCG, to modern adaptations like Pokémon GO. Given this rich history, a trading mechanism in Pokémon TCG Pocket seems like a natural fit. Players are eager to see if this long-awaited feature will be worth the anticipation.

Discover the Trading Feature in Pokémon TCG Pocket

Trading Restrictions for Cards: What You Need to Know

It has now been confirmed that trading will officially launch in Pokémon TCG Pocket in January, and details regarding this feature have been shared via the game’s X account, substantiating several leaks while also raising some player concerns. Initial rumors suggested that trading would be limited to either diamond or one-star cards, and unfortunately, these fears have been validated. While this restriction does encompass a significant portion of the available cards, future updates, particularly the anticipated A2 expansion set to launch on January 29, 2025, may broaden the scope of tradable cards.

As it currently stands, trading will include standard ex cards, but notably, the illustrated versions of these cards, Immersive Cards, and the rarest collectibles featuring fan-favorites like Pikachu, Mewtwo, Mew, Celebi, and Charizard will be excluded from trading. There are various reasons why Pokémon TCG Pocket and its developer, DeNA, might want to impose these restrictions, which could be more about maintaining a balanced game environment rather than simply complicating players’ efforts to complete their collections.

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Although standard ex cards will be eligible for trading, the illustrated versions of these cards, along with Immersive Cards and the rarest cards featuring iconic characters like Pikachu, Mewtwo, Mew, Celebi, and Charizard will not be tradable. There are several motivations behind Pokémon TCG Pocket and DeNA’s decision to restrict trading, which may go beyond simply making it more challenging for players to complete their collections. One concern involves players potentially using real-world money to buy certain cards from each other, which could lead to complications with third-party sellers. Such issues have plagued other games, including EA FC with its Ultimate Team mode.

It is also likely that trading will be restricted to interactions between friends, given its placement in the social hub of Pokémon TCG Pocket. However, at present, the social hub lacks substantial activities, making the inclusion of trading between friends a logical addition.

Exploring the Challenges of Trading in Pokémon TCG Pocket

Evaluating the Value of Trading in Pokémon TCG Pocket

The trading feature in Pokémon TCG Pocket is currently limited to diamond and one-star cards, which may lead to a depreciation in the value of these cards. The present system allows dedicated players to complete their base sets by opening packs, using Wonder Picks, and accumulating Pack Points without relying on trading. However, obtaining all rare-tier cards is a significant challenge without substantial investment of real money.

If the rumored trading limitations hold true, they won’t significantly ease the process of completing base sets, nor will they assist players in acquiring every available card. Conversely, if trading is expanded to include all cards, players would have a much better chance of completing their collections within Pokémon TCG Pocket.

While the trading feature in <em>Pokémon</em> <em>TCG Pocket</em> has the potential to disappoint, it could also lead to a reduction in the value of tradable cards. Players will undoubtedly want to explore the trading functionality upon its release, and despite the limitations, it may still prove beneficial for those aiming to complete collections of lower-rarity cards.

Source: Pokémon TCG Pocket/X, Game Rant

Released

October 30, 2024

Developer(s)

DeNA, Creatures Inc.

Publisher(s)

The Pokemon Company

Multiplayer

Online Multiplayer

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