Pokémon TCG Pocket's highly anticipated trading update has launched to overwhelmingly negative feedback, exceeding even the initial concerns voiced last week. Players are flooding social media with complaints about the system's excessive requirements and restrictive nature. While the restrictions were previously disclosed, the demanding resource consumption was only vaguely hinted at.

The trading system necessitates two distinct consumable items per trade. First, players need Trade Stamina, replenishing over time or purchasable with Poké Gold (real money).

Secondly, and the primary source of outrage, is the Trade Token system. Trading cards with a rarity of 3 Diamonds or higher requires a significant number of these tokens: 120 for a 3 Diamond card, 400 for a 1 Star card, and 500 for a 4 Diamond (ex Pokémon) card.

Trade Tokens are earned solely by discarding cards from one's collection. The exchange rates are heavily unfavorable, forcing players to sacrifice numerous valuable cards to trade even a single high-rarity card. For instance, trading one ex Pokémon requires selling five, and selling a Crown rarity card (the rarest in the game) only yields enough tokens for three ex Pokémon trades. Selling a 3-Star immersive art card, a key selling point of the game, doesn't even provide enough tokens to trade a single 1-Star or 4-Diamond card.

Overwhelming Negative Reception:

Reddit threads are ablaze with criticism, labeling the update a "monumental failure," "hilariously toxic," and an "insult." Players are expressing extreme frustration with the system's apparent greed, vowing to cease spending on the game. The lengthy process of exchanging cards for tokens, approximately 15 seconds per transaction, adds further to the negative experience. Many believe the system is deliberately designed to discourage trading, prioritizing revenue generation.

Concerns about Monetization:

The trading system is widely viewed as a blatant attempt to boost revenue for a game that already generated an estimated $200 million in its first month. The inability to trade cards of 2-Star rarity or higher further fuels this suspicion, as readily available trading would undermine the need for players to purchase packs repeatedly. One player reported spending approximately $1,500 to complete the first set.

Developer Silence:

Creatures Inc. remains silent on the backlash, a departure from their previous response to initial concerns. While they previously stated they would monitor player feedback, the current situation suggests a significant disconnect between player expectations and the implemented system. IGN has reached out to Creatures Inc. for comment.

Potential Solutions:

Some players suggest incorporating Trade Tokens as rewards for completing missions, a potential solution to alleviate the current issues. However, it's more likely that Trade Stamina will be included as rewards, mirroring the current reward system for similar mechanics.

The launch of this poorly received trading system casts a shadow over the upcoming update, which will introduce Diamond and Pearl Pokémon like Dialga and Palkia. The negative reception highlights a significant concern regarding the game's monetization strategy and its impact on player experience.