Pokémon TCG Pocket's highly anticipated trading update has launched to overwhelmingly negative feedback, exceeding even the initial concerns voiced last week. Players are expressing widespread frustration on social media, citing excessive requirements and restrictive limitations. 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 require Trade Stamina, replenishing over time or purchasable with Poké Gold (real money).

The second, and more controversial, requirement is Trade Tokens. These are needed to trade cards of 3 Diamonds or higher, with escalating costs: 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 a player's collection. The exchange rates are unfavorable, requiring the sacrifice of multiple high-rarity cards to trade a single card of similar or lower rarity. For instance, five ex Pokémon must be sold to trade one, 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 provide enough tokens to trade a 1 Star or 4 Diamond card.

This system has been widely condemned as "a monumental failure," "hilariously toxic," and "predatory and downright greedy" by players. Many are vowing to cease spending on the game, highlighting the impracticality and excessive cost of trading. The 15-second processing time for each token exchange further exacerbates the tedious nature of the system. Some players even suggest renaming the game, given the impracticality of its trading mechanic.

The inability to trade cards of 2-Star rarity or higher is also viewed as a deliberate revenue-generating tactic, forcing players to purchase packs for a chance at obtaining desired cards. The high cost of completing even a single set (approximately $1,500 for one player) further underscores this concern.

Creatures Inc. has yet to address the widespread criticism, despite previously acknowledging player concerns. IGN has reached out for comment on the negative reception and the possibility of future adjustments. While adding Trade Tokens as mission rewards could mitigate the issue, it's more likely that Trade Stamina will be offered as rewards instead, given the precedent set with similar items. The launch of this poorly-received trading mechanic casts a shadow over the upcoming update introducing Diamond and Pearl Pokémon.