Pokémon TCG Pocket Confirms Changes to Much-Loathed Trading System Are Coming... Eventually

Pokémon TCG Pocket's reviled trading system is finally getting a much-needed overhaul, though the wait for these improvements will be lengthy. Developers have detailed significant changes coming to the game, addressing long-standing player frustrations.

Trading Token Removal and Shinedust Implementation

The dreaded Trade Tokens are being eliminated. Trading three-diamond, four-diamond, and one-star rarity cards will now utilize Shinedust. This existing in-game currency is automatically awarded upon obtaining duplicate cards already registered in your Card Dex. Current Trade Tokens will be converted to Shinedust upon removal. Trading of one-diamond and two-diamond rarity cards remains unchanged. Increased Shinedust acquisition methods are being explored to compensate for its expanded use in trading and flair purchases.

Additional Upcoming Features

A new feature will allow players to specify desired trade cards within the in-game trading function.

The removal of Trade Tokens is a major shift. The previous system required discarding cards to obtain tokens for trading, creating a significant barrier to trading, especially for valuable cards. The new Shinedust system offers a more streamlined and less wasteful approach. Shinedust, already used for card flairs, is acquired passively through duplicates, offering a less punishing alternative. While a cost is necessary to prevent exploitation, the previous system's high cost was prohibitive.

Another significant improvement is the ability to specify desired trade cards. Currently, players can only list cards for trade without indicating preferred trades, hindering successful trades, especially with strangers. This new feature will facilitate more efficient and mutually beneficial trades.

Community response to these changes has been positive, although the loss of rare cards already spent on Trade Tokens remains a concern. The conversion to Shinedust mitigates some of this loss, but the cards themselves are irretrievable.

The biggest drawback is the lengthy implementation timeline – these changes aren't expected until fall. This likely means a trading drought until then, as the current system is widely considered unusable. Several expansions may pass before the trading function truly becomes functional. Until then, hold onto your Shinedust!