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 Dialga and Palkia-themed booster packs, boasts 207 cards—a smaller set 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). The actual card count, excluding alternate arts, is 155, including 10 new ex Pokémon (Yanmega, Infernape, Palkia, Pacharisu, Mismagius, Gallade, Weavile, Darkrai, Dialga, and Lickilicky). Every Pokémon type except Dragon receives a new ex Pokémon, with Darkness receiving two.
Alternate Art Secret Cards: A Glimpse
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A significant addition is the introduction of Pokémon Tool cards: Giant Cape (+20 HP), Rocky Helmet (deals 20 HP to the opponent on damage), and Lum Berry (removes status conditions).
New Battles and Meta Shifts
Space Time Smackdown introduces new Solo Battles across Intermediate, Advanced, and Expert tiers, featuring Pokémon from the set like Dialga ex, Palkia ex, and others. The multiplayer meta is expected to shift significantly. Infernape ex's high-damage, low-energy-cost attack, Palkia ex's area-of-effect damage, and Weavile ex's conditional damage output are notable additions. Steel-type decks are anticipated to receive a significant boost with Dialga ex and other new cards.
Missions, Rewards, and the Trading Controversy
New missions offer rewards like Pack Hourglasses, Wonder Hourglasses, and Emblem Tickets. Museum missions return, focusing on 1-Star and 2-Star cards, alongside a "Champion of the Sinnoh Region" mission. The shop includes new Dialga and Palkia album covers, a Lovely Hearts backdrop, and a Cynthia-themed Poké Gold bundle. Notably, the controversial Trading Tokens are absent from mission rewards, although a "Trade Feature Celebration Gift" provided 500 Tokens and 120 Trade Hourglasses.
The trading system remains a point of contention. Trading cards of 3 Diamonds or higher requires Trade Tokens, obtained by selling cards. The high cost of trading rare cards, particularly ex Pokémon and Crown rarity cards, has drawn significant criticism from players, who find the system overly restrictive and laborious. The developer, Creatures Inc., has yet to address these concerns publicly.
