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), boasts 207 cards, a smaller count than Genetic Apex but with 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.

Alternate Art 'Secret' Cards: A Glimpse

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A key feature of Space Time Smackdown is the introduction of Pokémon Tool cards. These attachable items provide battle advantages. The expansion includes Giant Cape (+20 HP), Rocky Helmet (deals 20 HP damage when the active Pokémon takes damage), and Lum Berry (removes status conditions).

Gameplay Changes

The expansion introduces new Solo Battles across Intermediate, Advanced, and Expert tiers, featuring Pokémon from the set like 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 damage to benched Pokémon) are particularly potent. Weavile ex offers versatile attack options, and Dialga ex significantly boosts Steel-type decks.

Missions and Rewards

New missions offer rewards like Pack Hourglasses, Wonder Hourglasses, and Emblem Tickets. Collecting specific cards unlocks rental decks and 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 (Gastrodon, Lucario, Spiritomb, Garchomp). The shop features new Dialga and Palkia album covers, a Lovely Hearts backdrop, and a Cynthia-themed Poké Gold bundle. Note that Trading Tokens are not awarded through missions, although a celebratory gift provided 500 Tokens.

The Trading Controversy

The recent trading update remains controversial. Trade Tokens, required for trading higher-rarity cards, are obtained by selling cards. The high cost of trading valuable cards (e.g., five ex Pokémon to trade one) has drawn significant criticism from players. The system's complexity and perceived unfairness have led to widespread negative feedback.