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 based on 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). Excluding alternate art cards, the set contains 155 cards, including 10 powerful ex Pokémon (Yanmega, Infernape, Palkia, Pacharisu, Mismagius, Gallade, Weavile, Darkrai, Dialga, and Lickilicky). Every Pokémon type except Dragon is represented by a new ex Pokémon, with Darkness receiving two.
A Notable Addition: Pokémon Tool Cards
Space Time Smackdown introduces Pokémon Tool cards – items attached to active Pokémon for battle advantages. Three new tools are included: Giant Cape (+20 HP), Rocky Helmet (deals 20 HP to the opponent's Pokémon when the active trainer takes damage), and Lum Berry (removes status conditions like Poison).
Updated Game Modes
The expansion brings new Solo Battles across Intermediate, Advanced, and Expert tiers, featuring Pokémon from the set (Dialga ex, Palkia ex, Togekiss, Bastiodon, and more). The multiplayer meta is expected to shift significantly, with cards like Infernape ex (high damage output) and Palkia ex (damage to benched Pokémon) posing substantial threats. Dialga ex strengthens Steel-type decks.
Missions and Rewards
New missions offer rewards like Pack Hourglasses, Wonder Hourglasses, and Emblem Tickets. Collecting signature cards unlocks rental decks, while completing the set unlocks Dialga and Palkia icons. Museum missions focus on 1-Star and 2-Star cards. A final mission, "Champion of the Sinnoh Region," rewards players for collecting the Cynthia full art card and 1-Star cards of her key Pokémon. Notably, the controversial Trading Tokens are not awarded through missions, although a celebratory gift provided 500 tokens. New shop items include Dialga and Palkia album covers and a Cynthia-themed Poké Gold bundle.
The Trading Controversy
The recent trading update remains controversial due to the high cost of Trade Tokens required for trading higher-rarity cards. The system necessitates selling multiple high-value cards to acquire enough tokens for a single trade, leading to significant player frustration. The developer, Creatures Inc., has yet to address player concerns publicly.
