The highly criticized trading system in Pokemon TCG Pocket is slated for a significant revamp. An in-game announcement confirms that an update to overhaul this feature will be rolled out on July 29.
Despite being a frequently requested addition, the trading functionality, introduced to the free-to-play mobile card game in January, quickly drew player criticism. Its implementation included a unique currency called “Trade Tokens” and imposed numerous restrictions on which cards could be traded and with whom.
Soon after the trading system`s debut, The Pokemon Company admitted it had fallen short of expectations. They explained in a statement that while the restrictive nature was intended to “prevent abuse from bots and other prohibited actions using multiple accounts,” it inadvertently “prevented players from casually enjoying the feature as intended.” The company indicated it would explore more substantial modifications, while also increasing opportunities to acquire Trade Tokens via in-game events in the interim.
The upcoming July 29 update is set to address many of these issues. The dedicated “Trade Tokens” currency will be abolished, and trades will no longer necessitate the consumption of additional cards. Players will instead utilize “Shinedust,” one of Pokemon TCG Pocket`s existing in-game currencies, for trades. Furthermore, a new wishlist feature will simplify the process of specifying desired cards for trade.
To support Shinedust`s expanded utility (which previously focused on cosmetic enhancements), the quantity of Shinedust obtained from duplicate cards will be doubled. Players who still possess “Trade Tokens” will also have the option to convert them into other currencies, such as Shinedust or “pack hourglasses” used for opening card packs.
The expedited release of this trading update comes as a pleasant surprise, as The Pokemon Company had previously suggested it wouldn`t arrive until before the end of Autumn 2025. Meanwhile, Pokemon TCG Pocket remains highly popular, having exceeded 100 million downloads in February. Its most recent expansion, “Eevee Grove,” launched on June 26, introducing 100 new cards and various Eevee-themed cosmetic items.
Further announcements regarding Pokemon TCG Pocket and other Pokemon titles are anticipated during a Pokemon Presents livestream scheduled for July 22.