Pokémon TCG Pocket Cracks Down on Cheating Ahead of Trading Feature Launch

SEATTLE, Wash. — The Pokémon Company International has issued a stern warning to players of Pokémon TCG Pocket, its digital card game, ahead of the highly anticipated release of an in-game trading feature later this week. The announcement, pushed to the app on January 22, 2025, highlights violations of the game’s Terms of Service, including data tampering and real-money trading.

“We are aware that some players have engaged in data tampering, real money trading, and other behaviors that violate the Terms of Use,” the in-game notice stated. “If we confirm that a player has engaged in behavior that violates the Terms of Use, we will warn them, suspend their account, or take other action.”

The warning comes as the game prepares to launch its trading feature on January 29, 2025. The feature will allow players to trade cards of one-star rarity and below with friends, though it requires an in-game currency to complete trades. Players have expressed frustration with the rarity limit and the additional cost, which some argue could hinder the feature’s usability.

Speculation among players on the r/PTCGP subreddit suggests the warning may target specific behaviors, such as “god pack farming.” This practice involves creating multiple accounts to exploit free packs for new players, aiming to obtain rare card packs, which are then sold for real money. Another suspected behavior is grinding accounts to level 50 by stalling PvP battles, forcing opponents to concede and securing repeated wins.

The Pokémon Company International has not provided specific details about which behaviors are being targeted. However, the timing of the warning, just days before the trading feature’s release, suggests a proactive effort to curb potential misuse. The company has emphasized its commitment to maintaining fair play and a positive experience for all players.

Pokémon TCG Pocket, available on iOS and Android devices since October 30, 2024, has quickly gained popularity for its immersive card-collecting experience. The upcoming Space-Time Smackdown expansion, set to launch on January 30, 2025, will introduce over 140 new cards, including Pokémon ex cards featuring Dialga and Palkia from the Sinnoh region.

As the trading feature rolls out, players are advised to review the game’s Terms of Use to avoid penalties. For more information, visit the official Pokémon TCG Pocket website.