The Pokémon franchise has grown leaps and bounds since its debut more than a decade ago. Not only has it successfully ventured into the MOBA genre, but it’s also revived its core RPG game with new game features and its upcoming release of the much-anticipated title: Pokémon Legends: Arceus.
You can add another revival to that list with their latest announcement. The franchise is revamping the Pokémon Trading Card Game’s digital experience. The game which is already available as Pokémon TCG online is getting a much-needed update both aesthetically and in gameplay. The new app called “Pokémon Trading Card Game Live” will be released on Android, iOS, PC and Mac.
The new online experience visually revamps the game bringing it into the future. The biggest, most obvious update is the visual updates which are in the new Pokémon Trading Card Game Live app. Avatars have been updated with more customizability and are in 3D. You’ll be able to customise everything from your skin colour to your eyes and even your clothes. The avatars are also more like Microsoft’s avatars rather than Nintendo’s Miis.
In addition to the revamped graphics, the battle arena is now more interactive and dynamic. It changes when attacks are performed or when arena effects come into play. The interface is also simplified and optimised for the best experience across platforms. Unlike the older Pokémon TCG Online, the layout has been condensed while keeping the focus on your active Pokémon.
Speaking of the older Pokémon TCG Online game, it looks like The Pokémon Company will be sunsetting the older app when Pokémon Trading Card Game Live. However, you don’t have to fret as you can migrate your profile from TCG Online to Live. When you do this, you will take over your collections to the new app but be sure to unpack any boosters you have. It looks like cards from the HeartGold & SoulSilver series and older may not make the cut with the update. However, everything from the Black & White series onwards will be playable eventually. At launch, only packs after the Lost Thunder set will be playable.
Of course, being a free-to-play app, Pokémon Trading Card Game Live will have monetisation aspects to it like Pokémon UNITE. In fact, the monetisation format is so similar, it feels like your seeing double. There will be three in-game currencies: Coins, Credits and Crystals. Coins and Credits will be obtainable in-game. The former will be used for booster packs, decks and aesthetics; while the latter will be initially obtained when moving from TCG Online to Live. After which, it will be awarded as you complete certain milestones in-game. Crystals are where you will have to fork out cash for items. These crystals will be used to buy booster packs, promo cards and more in the shop. It will also be used when you buy the battle pass.
Pokémon Trading Card Game Live will be soft-launched in Canada later this year with a global rollout for iOS, Android, Windows and Mac devices to follow.
