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, themed around Pokémon Diamond and Pearl. This update, featuring two booster packs (Dialga and Palkia themed), adds 207 cards – a smaller set 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), representing every Pokémon type except Dragon (Darkness has two).

Alternate Art 'Secret' Cards in Space Time Smackdown

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A significant addition is the introduction of Pokémon Tool cards: Giant Cape (+20 HP), Rocky Helmet (deals 20 HP back on damage), and Lum Berry (removes status conditions).

New Battles and Gameplay

Space Time Smackdown introduces new Solo Battles across Intermediate, Advanced, and Expert tiers, featuring Pokémon from the set (Dialga ex, Palkia ex, Togekiss, and others). The multiplayer meta is expected to shift significantly. Cards like Infernape ex (140 damage for two Fire Energy) and Palkia ex (150 damage plus 20 to benched Pokémon) are particularly powerful. Weavile ex offers versatile attack options, and Dialga ex significantly boosts Steel-type decks.

Missions and Rewards

New missions, similar to previous ones, reward Pack Hourglasses, Wonder Hourglasses, Emblem Tickets, and more. The notable absence is Trading Tokens, although a "Trade Feature Celebration Gift" provided 500 Tokens and 120 Trade Hourglasses. New shop items include Dialga and Palkia album covers, a Lovely Hearts backdrop, and a Cynthia-themed Poké Gold bundle.

The Trading Controversy

The recent trading update remains controversial. Trading Tokens, required for trading cards of 3 Diamonds or higher, are obtained by selling cards. The high cost of tokens needed to trade rare cards (especially ex Pokémon and Crown rarity cards) has drawn significant criticism from players, who describe the system as overly complex and burdensome. The developer, Creatures Inc., has yet to publicly address these concerns.