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Pokémon TCG Pocket's Space Time Smackdown Expansion: A Detailed Look
Pokémon TCG Pocket has launched its latest major update, introducing the Space Time Smackdown expansion, a new set themed around Pokémon Diamond and Pearl. This expansion, available in two booster packs (Dialga and Palkia-themed), features 207 cards, a smaller count than Genetic Apex but boasting a higher percentage of rare cards (52 alternate art Star and Crown rarity cards compared to Genetic Apex's 60). The official card count, excluding alternate arts, is 155, including 10 new ex Pokémon (Yanmega, Infernape, Palkia, Pacharisu, Mismagius, Gallade, Weavile, Darkrai, Dialga, and Lickilicky). Every Pokémon type except Dragon receives a new ex Pokémon, with Darkness gaining two.
Alternate Art 'Secret' Cards: A Glimpse
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A Key New Feature: Pokémon Tool Cards
Space Time Smackdown introduces Pokémon Tool cards – items attaching to active Pokémon for battle advantages. Three new tools are included: Giant Cape (+20 HP), Rocky Helmet (deals 20 HP to the opponent when the active Pokémon takes damage), and Lum Berry (removes status conditions).
Updated Battles and Multiplayer Implications
The expansion adds new Solo Battles across Intermediate, Advanced, and Expert tiers, featuring Pokémon from the set (Dialga ex, Palkia ex, Togekiss, and others). Multiplayer meta shifts are anticipated, with cards like Infernape ex (140 damage for two Fire Energy) and Palkia ex (150 damage plus 20 damage to benched Pokémon) posing significant threats. Dialga ex strengthens Steel-type decks.
Missions, Rewards, and the Trading Controversy
New missions are available, offering rewards like Pack Hourglasses, Wonder Hourglasses, and Emblem Tickets. Collecting specific cards unlocks rental decks and icons. Museum missions return, focusing on Star cards and the Cynthia full art card. The "Champion of the Sinnoh Region" mission requires the Cynthia full art and 1-Star cards of her key Pokémon (Gastrodon, Lucario, Spiritomb, Garchomp). Notably, Trading Tokens are not awarded through missions, although a celebratory gift of 500 Tokens was given.
New shop items include Dialga and Palkia album covers, a Lovely Hearts backdrop, and a Cynthia-themed Poké Gold bundle.
The Trading System: A Source of Player Discontent
The trading update remains controversial. Trade Tokens, required for trading high-rarity cards, are obtained by selling cards. The cost of tokens needed to trade high-value cards is significantly high, leading to player frustration. The system's high cost and requirement to sell cards before trading has drawn considerable negative feedback from the community, with many criticizing its complexity and unintuitive nature.
