The trading landscape in Pokémon TCG Pocket is set for a major transformation. Developers Creatures Inc. and DeNA have announced significant changes to the game's trading system, addressing long-standing player concerns.

Since its launch in late October 2024, the mobile adaptation of the popular Pokémon Trading Card Game has faced criticism regarding its trading functionality. Initially, the game lacked any trading features, which were finally introduced in late January 2025 alongside the Space-Time Smackdown expansion. However, the implemented system, relying on Trade Tokens, proved unpopular due to its perceived high cost.

Players frequently voiced their dissatisfaction with the Trade Token system, citing the substantial number of tokens required for trades. While developers previously attempted to alleviate the issue with free token giveaways, the newly announced overhaul promises a more comprehensive solution.

In a move aimed at simplifying and encouraging trades, Trade Tokens will be entirely removed from the game by the end of autumn.  The new system will utilize Shinedust, a resource previously used solely for acquiring cosmetic card Flair.  This shift is expected to increase trading activity, as Shinedust is more readily available, automatically awarded to players upon receiving duplicate cards from packs.

Existing Trade Tokens will be converted to Shinedust, though specific conversion rates and Shinedust costs for trading different rarity cards remain undisclosed. Developers are confident this change will enable players to trade more frequently and effectively.

The community response to the announcement has been largely positive, particularly among players with accumulated Shinedust reserves. However, some remain unsatisfied, pointing to the continued restriction on trading the highest rarity cards and urging developers to lift all trade limitations.