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, a new set themed around Pokémon Diamond and Pearl. This expansion, available in Dialga and Palkia-themed booster packs, 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 Showcase
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A Key New Mechanic: Pokémon Tool Cards
Space Time Smackdown introduces Pokémon Tool cards—items attachable 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 and Challenges
The expansion brings new Solo Battles across Intermediate, Advanced, and Expert tiers, featuring Pokémon from the set like Dialga ex, Palkia ex, Togekiss, and more. The multiplayer meta is expected to shift significantly due to powerful cards like Infernape ex (140 damage for two Fire Energy) and Palkia ex (150 damage plus 20 damage to benched Pokémon). Weavile ex also offers a potent single-energy attack. Steel-type decks are anticipated to receive a substantial boost with the addition of Dialga ex and other supporting cards.
Missions, Rewards, and the Trading Controversy
New missions are available, rewarding players with Pack Hourglasses, Wonder Hourglasses, Emblem Tickets, and more. Collecting specific cards unlocks rental decks and icons. Museum missions return, focusing on Star cards and the Cynthia full art card. Notably, the controversial Trading Tokens are absent from mission rewards, though a "Trade Feature Celebration Gift" provided 500 Tokens and 120 Trade Hourglasses.
The trading system remains a point of contention. Trading cards with 3 Diamonds or higher rarity requires Trade Tokens, obtainable only 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.
