Pokémon TCG Pocket developer Creatures Inc. is actively investigating improvements to its trading feature, launched last week to significant player backlash. In a statement on X/Twitter, Creatures Inc. acknowledged player feedback, explaining the trading feature's restrictions were intended to prevent abuse, but inadvertently hindered casual enjoyment. The company promised future events would offer Trade Tokens as rewards, a promise immediately broken by the February 3rd Cresselia ex Drop Event, which contained none.

The trading feature, already criticized for limiting pack openings and Wonder Picking without in-app purchases, further restricts trading via Trade Tokens. Players heavily criticized the high cost of acquiring these tokens—requiring the deletion of five cards to trade one of the same rarity.

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Creatures Inc. stated that the item requirements and restrictions were designed to prevent bot abuse and multi-account manipulation. They aimed to balance gameplay fairness while preserving the core collecting experience. However, they admitted the restrictions negatively impacted casual players and pledged to improve the feature. They plan to offer multiple ways to obtain Trade Tokens, including through events.

The statement lacked specifics on changes or timelines, but confirmed the company heard player concerns. Uncertainty remains regarding refunds or compensation for players who traded using the current system, potentially losing more due to future changes.

Creatures Inc.'s commitment to event-based Trade Token distribution is questionable. Only 200 tokens were offered as premium Battle Pass rewards (a $9.99 monthly subscription) on February 1st, enough for a single 3-Diamond card trade. The Cresselia ex Drop Event also failed to include any Trade Tokens. Players received promo cards, Pack Hourglasses, Shinedust, shop tickets, and experience, but no Trade Tokens.

Many believe the trading mechanic is designed to increase revenue for Pokémon TCG Pocket, which reportedly earned $200 million in its first month before trading was implemented. The inability to trade 2-Star or higher rarity cards further fuels this suspicion, as readily trading for missing cards would reduce the need for costly random pack purchases. One player reported spending approximately $1,500 to complete the first set, with a third set released just days ago.

Players described the mechanic as "predatory and downright greedy," "hilariously toxic," and a "monumental failure."