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. Developers have detailed significant improvements, promising a smoother, more enjoyable trading experience, though implementation is slated for the fall.

Farewell, Trade Tokens!

The dreaded Trade Tokens are being removed. Trading three-diamond, four-diamond, and one-star rarity cards will now use Shinedust, a currency already in the game. Shinedust is automatically awarded for duplicate cards obtained from booster packs. Existing Trade Tokens will be converted to Shinedust. Trading one- and two-diamond rarity cards remains unchanged. With increased Shinedust acquisition (currently under review), trading should become significantly easier.

More Trading Improvements on the Horizon

Two key features are in development:

• Shareable Trade Lists: Players can specify cards they desire in trades, facilitating more efficient exchanges. This addresses the current system's lack of communication, hindering trades between players.
• Shinedust Economy: The developers acknowledge the need for a trading cost to prevent exploitation, but admit the previous Trade Token system was excessively punitive. The shift to Shinedust, earned through duplicates and events, aims for a more balanced approach.

The new system addresses major player complaints. The previous system required sacrificing multiple rare cards to obtain Trade Tokens, a significant barrier to trading. The Shinedust system, while still imposing a cost, offers a more accessible and less punishing alternative.

While the community is generally positive about the changes, the long wait until implementation (fall of this year) is a drawback. The current system's unpopularity may lead to a trading standstill until the update arrives. Players who already discarded cards for Trade Tokens will also feel the sting of lost resources, despite the conversion. The game may see several expansions before the trading system truly functions as intended. For now, hold onto that Shinedust!