Pokémon TCG Pocket's highly anticipated trading update has arrived, but instead of celebration, it's met with widespread player outrage. The trading system, already criticized last week for its restrictions, has launched to an even worse reception due to unexpectedly stringent requirements.
The trading process necessitates two consumable items: Trade Stamina and Trade Tokens. Trade Stamina, replenishing over time or purchasable with Poké Gold (real money), is similar to other in-game mechanics. However, it's the Trade Tokens that are sparking the controversy.
Trading cards of 3 Diamonds or higher requires a significant number of Trade Tokens: 120 for a 3 Diamond card, 400 for a 1 Star card, and 500 for a 4 Diamond (ex Pokémon) card. The only way to acquire Trade Tokens is by deleting cards from one's collection, with the exchange rate heavily favoring the game's developers. For example, selling five ex Pokémon only yields enough tokens to trade one. Selling a Crown rarity card, the game's rarest, only provides enough tokens for three ex Pokémon trades. Lower rarity cards are worthless for trading.
Overwhelming Negative Feedback
Players are expressing extreme frustration on social media platforms like Reddit, with posts accumulating thousands of upvotes and overwhelmingly negative comments. The system is described as "an insult," "hilariously toxic," a "monumental failure," and "predatory and downright greedy." Many players are vowing to cease spending money on the game. The lengthy process of exchanging cards for tokens, taking approximately 15 seconds per transaction, adds to the overall negative experience. Some players even suggest renaming the game, given the impracticality of the trading system.
The high cost of trading is seen as a blatant attempt to maximize revenue, particularly considering the game's estimated $200 million revenue in its first month before the trading feature. The inability to easily trade higher rarity cards ensures players continue purchasing packs for a chance at obtaining them.
Creatures Inc.'s Silence
Creatures Inc. remains silent on the backlash, a departure from their previous response to initial concerns. While they previously acknowledged player concerns, their promise of an enjoyable experience rings hollow in light of the current system. IGN has reached out to Creatures Inc. for comment, but a response is pending.
Potential improvements could include adding Trade Tokens as mission rewards. However, given the current reward system favoring Trade Stamina and similar items, this seems unlikely. The poorly received trading update casts a shadow over the upcoming release of Diamond and Pearl Pokémon, such as Dialga and Palkia.
