Pokémon TCG Pocket Dev Offers Trade Tokens, Yet Controversial Feature Remains Unaddressed

Creatures Inc., the developer behind the Pokémon Trading Card Game Pocket, has recently distributed 1,000 Trade Tokens to players, sufficient for only two significant trades. This move comes as the company continues to explore solutions for the game's controversial trading mechanic. Players who logged in today discovered these tokens in their Gift menu, and although no accompanying message was provided, Creatures Inc. took to X/Twitter to express gratitude for the community's feedback and patience. The trading feature, introduced last week, sparked intense criticism, with the developer being labeled "hilariously toxic," "predatory," and "downright greedy."

The Pokémon TCG Pocket already limits players from opening packs or using the Wonder Pick feature excessively without spending real money. The introduction of trading added another layer of restriction through these Trade Tokens. Players have voiced frustration over the high cost of acquiring these tokens, which requires them to remove five cards from their collection to trade just one card of the same rarity.

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It has been eight days since the trading feature was rolled out, following significant backlash. Creatures Inc. had previously hinted at the feature nearly three weeks ago, acknowledging fan concerns and inviting feedback upon its release. Many players hoped for a more favorable implementation, but their expectations were not met. In response, Creatures Inc. admitted that "some of the restrictions put in place are preventing players from being able to casually enjoy" trading and promised to address these issues by offering required items as rewards in future events. However, the recent Cresselia ex Drop Event on February 3 did not include these promised rewards, further disappointing fans.

The trading system is perceived by many as a strategy to boost revenue for Pokémon TCG Pocket, which reportedly earned $200 million in its first month before trading was introduced. The inability to trade cards of 2 Star rarity or higher is seen as a tactic to encourage players to spend money on packs for a chance to obtain these cards. For instance, one player spent approximately $1,500 to complete the first set, and the third set in three months was released last week.