Pokémon TCG Pocket Devs Looking to Improve Trading Following Major Player Backlash

Creatures Inc., the developer behind Pokémon Trading Card Game Pocket, is actively working to enhance the trading feature that was rolled out last week amid significant player backlash. In a recent statement shared on X/Twitter, the company expressed gratitude for the community's feedback and acknowledged that the trading system, designed to curb potential abuse, has inadvertently restricted casual enjoyment for many players.

The statement highlighted that the trading feature was introduced with the intention of preventing exploitation by bots and multi-account users, aiming to maintain a balanced and fair gaming environment. However, Creatures Inc. admitted that some of the implemented restrictions have hindered players' ability to enjoy the feature as intended. They are now exploring ways to improve the system to address these concerns.

Creatures Inc. also promised to introduce required items, such as Trade Tokens, as rewards in upcoming events. However, the recently launched Cresselia ex Drop Event on February 3 did not include any Trade Tokens, despite the company's earlier commitment. This event offers various rewards like promo cards, Pack Hourglasses, Shinedust, shop tickets, and experience, but fails to deliver on the promised Trade Tokens.

The trading feature in Pokémon TCG Pocket includes a mechanic called Trade Tokens, which has been criticized for its high cost. Players must delete five cards from their collection to trade one card of the same rarity, a system that many find overly restrictive. Additionally, the inability to trade cards of 2 Star rarity or higher has led to accusations that the feature is designed to boost revenue, as players are forced to spend real money to obtain desired cards.

The community's frustration is palpable, with players describing the trading mechanic as "predatory and downright greedy," "hilariously toxic," and a "monumental failure." The lack of clarity from Creatures Inc. regarding potential changes to the trading system, including whether current trades will be refunded or compensated, has left players uncertain about the future of their investments in the game.

Moreover, the limited availability of Trade Tokens, with only 200 offered as premium rewards in the Battle Pass for $9.99 a month, underscores the perception that trading is being used as a revenue-generating tool. This is particularly evident given the game's estimated $200 million earnings in its first month, before the trading feature was even introduced.

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As the Pokémon TCG Pocket community continues to voice their concerns, it remains to be seen how Creatures Inc. will respond to these challenges and whether they can restore player trust and satisfaction with the game's trading system.