Pokémon TCG Pocket's trading feature, launched last week, has faced significant player backlash, prompting developer Creatures Inc. to address concerns. A statement on X/Twitter acknowledged the negative feedback, explaining that the restrictive trading mechanics, including Trade Tokens, were intended to curb bot activity and account abuse. However, Creatures Inc. admitted these restrictions inadvertently hinder casual enjoyment of the feature.

The company pledged to improve the trading system by offering Trade Tokens as rewards in future events. This promise, however, has already been broken, as the February 3rd Cresselia ex Drop Event notably lacks Trade Tokens.

Creatures Inc. stated that the restrictions were designed to maintain a fair environment, but acknowledged that the current system negatively impacts casual players. While promising improvements, the statement lacked specifics regarding the nature and timing of these changes. The company also remains silent on potential refunds or compensation for players affected by the current system.

Further fueling player frustration is the limited availability of Trade Tokens. Only 200 were offered as premium Battle Pass rewards (a $9.99 monthly subscription), sufficient for trading only one low-rarity card. The lack of Trade Tokens in the recent Cresselia ex event directly contradicts the company's recent statement.

Many players perceive the trading mechanics as a revenue-generating tactic, particularly considering the game's estimated $200 million revenue in its first month, before the trading feature's implementation. The inability to trade higher-rarity cards (2 stars or above) further reinforces this suspicion, as readily trading for missing cards would reduce the need for in-app purchases. One player reported spending approximately $1,500 to complete a single set.

The community's response has been overwhelmingly negative, with players labeling the trading system as "predatory," "greedy," and a "monumental failure." Creatures Inc.'s vague response and failure to immediately deliver on its promises have only amplified these concerns.