Pokémon TCG Expansion Explores Time's Unlikely Impact on Space

The Pokémon Trading Card Game (PTCGO) Space Time Smackdown expansion, released January 30th, features a Weavile ex card depicting a scene that has sparked outrage among players. Specifically, the full-art 2-Star version shows a group of Weavile poised to attack an unsuspecting Swinub.

This depiction of potential predation has generated significant online discussion, with many players expressing concern and dismay at the graphic nature of the artwork. Reddit threads highlight the visceral reaction, with comments like, "No Swinub, look up!" and expressing a desire for less violent imagery in Pokémon cards. The perceived brutality contrasts with the generally lighthearted tone often associated with the franchise.

(Replace example.com with actual image URL if available)

However, some fans offer a more optimistic interpretation, pointing to a Mamoswine full-art card showing a Mamoswine protectively looking upward, suggesting it may have witnessed and prevented the attack. This hopeful counterpoint attempts to soften the impact of the Weavile card's controversial artwork.

(Replace example.com with actual image URL if available)

The Space Time Smackdown set, themed around Pokémon Diamond and Pearl, includes 207 cards, featuring Pokémon like Dialga, Palkia, and Giratina. While smaller than the Genetic Apex set, it boasts a higher percentage of rare alternate art cards (52 vs. 60).

The developer, Creatures Inc., has yet to publicly address the controversy surrounding the Weavile card or the recent trading update. Despite a "Trade Feature Celebration Gift" offering in-game currency, the company has remained silent on player concerns and hasn't responded to media requests for comment.