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 but potentially richer collection than its predecessor, Genetic Apex. A notable 52 of these cards boast alternate art, Star, and Crown rarity, representing a higher percentage of rare cards compared to Genetic Apex. Excluding alternate art, the core 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.

A Key New Feature: Pokémon Tool Cards

Space Time Smackdown introduces Pokémon Tool cards – items attachable to active Pokémon for combat advantages. Three new tools are included: Giant Cape (adds 20 HP), Rocky Helmet (deals 20 HP to the opponent's Pokémon when the user takes damage), and Lum Berry (removes status conditions like Poison).

Updated Battles and Multiplayer Implications

The expansion brings new Solo Battles across Intermediate, Advanced, and Expert tiers, featuring Pokémon from the set like Dialga ex, Palkia ex, and others. While the multiplayer meta remains to be fully assessed, cards like Infernape ex (high damage output) and Palkia ex (damage to benched Pokémon) show significant potential to impact gameplay. Dialga ex will likely boost Steel-type decks considerably.

Missions, Rewards, and the Trading Controversy

Numerous 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 and full-art cards, culminating in the "Champion of the Sinnoh Region" mission. The shop features new Dialga and Palkia-themed items and a Cynthia-focused Poké Gold bundle.

The recent trading update remains controversial. While a celebratory gift of 500 Trade Tokens and 120 Trade Hourglasses was given, the high cost of trading rare cards (requiring significant amounts of Trade Tokens obtained by selling cards) has drawn considerable criticism from players. The system's perceived imbalance has led to negative feedback from the community.