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Trading is a core aspect of any TCG, as the name suggests: Trading Card Game. So, it’s no surprise thatPokemon Pocketlaunched with a built-in “Trade” option in its Social Hub. However, clicking on it currently leads to a message saying, “This feature will be available in a future update.” Now, we know when that “future update” will arrive.
WhenPokemon TCG Pocketwas first introduced, the developers emphasized its focus on social features, positioningPocketas a more community-driven experience compared to the competitivePokemon TCG Live. The devs promised an immersive environment for collecting, showcasing, and trading Pokemon cards, and with the game’s growing player base, it seems they’re now ready to deliver on that promise.
Trading Is Coming to Pokemon Pocket This January
In a Twitter post,Pokemon TCG Pocket’s developer, DeNA, revealed thatthe currently locked Trade feature will be available in January 2025. This announcement came shortly afterPocketreached a milestone of over 30 million players worldwide. The post mentioned that trading will be expanded, though it will start with limited features.
Fans reacted positively to this news, eagerly awaiting the addition of trading. However, the announcement provided only basic details, leaving some aspects unexplained. For example, it’s unclear which cards will be tradable or what currencies, if any, will be required for trades.
What We Know About Trades in Pokemon Pocket
Pokemon TCG Pocket’s official announcementstates that the developers are aiming to add a feature allowing certain cards to be traded starting in January 2025, with plans to gradually expand the selection of tradable cards.
What remains unclear are the regulations, limitations, and specifics of the trading mechanics. Players are curious if the trades will resemble those inPokemon GO, which involve factors like friendship level and resources like Stardust, or ifPocketwill introduce a completely new system.
WhilePokemon Pockethas been compared toMarvel Snapfor features like Flairs,Marvel Snaplacks a trading mechanic, requiring players to acquire cards independently. Given this,Pokemon Pocketmay draw inspiration from other successful games, as few TCGs have successfully implemented safe and constructive trading systems.
Speculations About Pokemon Pocket’s Trade
Here are some speculations that may provide insight into the card exchange system inPokemon Pocket.
Trading Will Require a Resource
UnlessPocketintroduces a new currency, Shinedust and Pack Points are the likeliest trade currency candidates. It’s improbable that a gacha game likePokemon Pocketwill allow unlimited or free trades. Instead, it will probably repurpose an existing currency or introduce a new one, similar to how Stardust is required for trading inPokemon GO.
You Won’t Be Able to Trade Crown Rarity Cards
This isn’t surprising, as most TCGs restrict the rarest cards from being traded.Pokemon Pocketwill likely either limit the crown rarity cards’ trades or prevent trading them entirely to maintain their exclusivity.
There Will Be a Daily Trade Limit
InPokemon GO, there’s a cap on how many trades you can make each day.Pokemon Pocketis likely to adopt a similar strategy, possibly with even more restrictive limits, considering its current smaller card roster compared withPokemon GO.
It’s a good idea to save up your rare cards for now so you can trade them for any missing cards once the trade feature goes live. It’s also essential to befriend whales or collectors, as they’ll provide better trading options right from the start.
