Creatures Inc., the developer of Pokémon Trading Card Game Pocket, has addressed player concerns regarding the recently implemented trading mechanic by gifting players 1,000 Trade Tokens. This is enough for only two substantial trades. The developer continues to investigate solutions to improve the controversial system.
Players received the tokens silently in their Gift menu. However, Creatures Inc. issued a statement on X/Twitter expressing gratitude for player feedback and patience. The trading feature's introduction last week sparked significant backlash, with the developer facing criticism for what many considered a "hilariously toxic," "predatory," and "downright greedy" approach.
The trading system, like other in-game mechanics, restricts players from excessive pack openings, Wonder Picking, and now trading without spending real money. The Trade Tokens further limit trading, requiring players to delete five cards of the same rarity to trade one. This cost has been widely criticized.
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Eight days after the release of the trading feature, and following a three-week heads-up period where the developer acknowledged player concerns, the backlash continues. While Creatures Inc. initially stated they would address feedback, the reality fell short of expectations. The developer admitted that restrictions hindered casual enjoyment of the trading system and promised to alleviate issues through future event rewards. However, the Cresselia ex Drop Event, launched on February 3rd, failed to deliver on this promise.
Many players believe the trading system is designed to boost revenue for Pokémon TCG Pocket, which reportedly generated $200 million in its first month, before trading was implemented. This is further supported by the inability to trade cards of 2-Star rarity or higher, a restriction that forces players to spend significant sums for a chance at obtaining rarer cards. One player reported spending approximately $1,500 to complete the first set, with a third set released just last week.
