A Japanese YouTuber achieved a remarkable feat in Pokémon TCG Pocket, accumulating over 50,000 cards through consistent daily Poké Gold purchases since the game's launch. This impressive accomplishment, coupled with a new McDonald's collaboration, highlights the game's growing popularity.

Japanese YouTuber's Massive Pokémon TCG Pocket Card Collection

A $8,500+ Investment (Excluding Sales)

Hajimesyacho, a popular Japanese YouTuber known for diverse content, revealed his impressive collection of 50,000 Pokémon TCG Pocket cards on Twitter (X). This was achieved by consistently purchasing the maximum 720 Poké Gold daily since the game's October 30, 2024 launch. This daily expenditure, estimated at around $100, totals approximately $8,500 over the 85-day period, excluding any potential savings from in-game sales events.

His dedication resulted in a complete collection of cards from the Genetic Apex (A1) and Mythical Island booster packs, along with time-limited promotional cards. The latest addition, a "Pokedex" Trainer card rewarding top collectors, was earned following the global milestone of 40 billion cards collected.

McDonald's and Pokémon TCG Pocket Team Up!

The Pokémon Company announced a surprise collaboration with McDonald's on January 21, 2025. Happy Meal purchases now include exclusive Pokémon-themed boxes containing collectible physical cards and in-game rewards.

Fifteen unique physical cards, including popular Pokémon like Miraidon, Roaring Moon, and Rayquaza (seven with a holographic finish), are available randomly. Pokémon TCG Pocket players also receive in-game rewards: 24 Pack Hourglasses and 12 Hourglasses for opening booster packs and using the Wonder Pick feature.

Four distinct Happy Meal box designs feature iconic dragon-type Pokémon like Charizard, Rayquaza, Roaring Moon, and Dragonite alongside Pikachu. These are available at participating McDonald's locations while supplies last. Remember, in-game rewards expire on March 31, 2025.

Trading Feature on the Horizon

On January 17, 2025, Pokémon TCG Pocket announced details about its upcoming trading feature on Twitter (X). Trading will initially be limited to friends with cards of equal rarity (1-4 diamonds and 1-star). Rarer cards like Special Illustration Rares, Immersive cards, and Crown Rares will be excluded. A consumable item, similar to Stardust in Pokémon GO, will facilitate trades.

Currently, cards from the Genetic Apex (A1) and Mythical Island booster packs are tradeable, with the developers promising to expand the selection based on player feedback. A new booster pack is also teased for release in January, with the exact date yet to be announced.