Pokémon TCG Pocket developer, Creatures Inc., has issued 1,000 Trade Tokens to players – enough for only two substantial trades – while continuing to address issues with the controversial trading mechanic.
Players logging in today will find these tokens in their Gift menu without explanation. However, Creatures Inc. posted on X/Twitter, acknowledging player feedback and expressing gratitude for their patience. The developer faced significant criticism last week, with descriptions ranging from "hilariously toxic" to "predatory" and "downright greedy" following the trading feature's launch.
The trading system, alongside existing restrictions on pack openings and Wonder Picking, introduced Trade Tokens as an additional limitation. Players heavily criticized the high cost of acquiring these tokens, requiring the deletion of five cards to trade one of similar rarity.
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Eight days after the launch amidst considerable backlash, Creatures Inc. acknowledged prior warnings about player dissatisfaction, stating weeks earlier, "Your concerns are seen... I'd like to invite everyone to try it and provide feedback." This led many to anticipate a more positive experience than what materialized.
Creatures Inc. subsequently admitted that "some restrictions... are preventing players from casually enjoying" trading. The developer promised to address concerns by offering necessary items as rewards in future events, a promise already broken as the February 3rd Cresselia ex Drop Event lacked these rewards.
Players voiced concerns that the trading system primarily serves to increase revenue for Pokémon TCG Pocket, which reportedly generated $200 million in its first month, before trading was even implemented.
This is further supported by the inability to trade cards of 2-Star rarity or higher. Allowing immediate trades for missing cards would likely reduce the need for players to spend significant sums ($10, $100, or more) on random card packs. One player reported spending approximately $1,500 to complete the first set, with the third set arriving last week.
