Pokémon TCG Pocket Gets Space Time Smackdown Expansion Today — Here's Everything You Need to Know

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, features 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). The actual card count, excluding alternate art cards, is 155.

Alternate Art 'Secret' Cards in Space Time Smackdown

52 Images

The expansion includes 10 new ex Pokémon: Yanmega, Infernape, Palkia, Pacharisu, Mismagius, Gallade, Weavile, Darkrai, Dialga, and Lickilicky, representing every Pokémon type except Dragon (Darkness type received two).

A significant addition is the introduction of Pokémon Tool cards: Giant Cape (+20 HP), Rocky Helmet (deals 20 HP to opponent on damage), and Lum Berry (removes status conditions).

Battles and Gameplay Changes

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. Cards like Infernape ex (140 damage for two Fire Energy) and Palkia ex (150 damage, 20 damage to benched Pokémon) are particularly powerful. Dialga ex and other Steel-type cards are predicted to boost Steel-type decks.

Missions and Rewards

New missions offer rewards like Pack Hourglasses, Wonder Hourglasses, and Emblem Tickets. Collecting signature cards unlocks rental decks, while completing the set unlocks Dialga and Palkia icons. Museum missions for collecting Star cards are also included, along with a Champion of the Sinnoh Region mission. Noteworthy is the absence of Trading Tokens, though players received a celebratory gift of 500 tokens. New shop items include Dialga and Palkia album covers and a Cynthia-themed Poké Gold bundle.

The Trading Controversy

The recent trading update remains controversial due to the implementation of Trade Tokens, required for trading cards of 3 Diamonds or higher rarity. Obtaining these tokens necessitates selling cards, creating an inefficient and frustrating system for players. The community has expressed significant negative feedback regarding the system's complexity and perceived unfairness.