Pokémon Pocket cards are already being sold on the black market

Last update: 11/02/2025

  • The Pokémon TCG Pocket trading system has created a black market for rare cards.
  • Players are selling cards on eBay despite it being banned.
  • The letter exchange system has restrictions that have generated discontent.
  • Developers warn of possible penalties for those involved in these illegal sales.
Black market cards in Pokémon Pocket

Pokémon TCG Pocket has been at the center of controversy in recent weeks due to the way in which the players have managed to get around the restrictions of the card exchange system. A mechanic that, a priori, should allow for an improved player experience, has led to the proliferation of a black market where rare cards are being bought and sold through external platforms.

The game's terms of use clearly state that The purchase and sale of virtual content is prohibited, but this has not stopped those seeking get specific cards without depending on the random draw system. This situation has led to High rarity cards are already listed on platforms such as eBay, which has raised concerns among the community and the developers themselves.

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How the Black Market for Cards Works in Pokémon TCG Pocket

How the black market for Pokémon Pocket cards works

The exchange system The in-game feature allows players to trade cards as long as they are of the same rarity. This method was implemented to prevent abuse and ensure fair trades, but in practice, it has facilitated the emergence of third-party sellers.

Those selling cards on eBay use a rather peculiar method: Buyers are asked to offer a card of equal rarity to complete the in-game exchange, while they receive money in the external transaction.

This system not only circumvents the restrictions imposed by developers, but also creates a business in which los vendedoresIn many cases, they don't lose anything, since by selling a card, they receive another of the same rarity that they can put back on sale.

Restrictions and discontent in the community

Reporting Issues in the Pokémon Pocket TCG

Since the launch of the exchange feature, The players have shown their discontent with the restrictions imposed by the system. One of the main problems is the need to spend tokens in order to make trades, which has caused many players to look for alternative methods to get the cards they want.

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Estos tokens They can only be obtained by removing cards from a player's collection., lo que implica a considerable sacrificeFor many, this is a tactic designed to encourage in-game purchases, rather than a true feature that facilitates trading between players.

Besides, the lack of an option to post letters in an internal marketplace within the app has forced players to turn to forums, online communities and, in the worst cases, sales platforms like eBay.

What steps will developers take?

How to trade cards in Pokémon Pocket

Given this situation, the developer has issued statements in which warns of the consequences of participating in the purchase and sale of cards outside of the game's official channels. According to them, players who are discovered engaging in these practices They could face penalties ranging from warnings to permanent suspension of their accounts..

However, No concrete action has yet been announced. to improve the trading system or prevent these external markets from continuing to operate. Many players hope that future updates will introduce modifications that allow for freer trading without as many restrictions.

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The emergence of a black market for cards within Pokémon TCG Pocket is a reflection of the limitations imposed by the trading system. As long as players continue to feel that the only way to obtain the cards they want is by resorting to these methods, Sales on eBay and other platforms are likely to continue to exist.

For this reason, the entire community expects the developers to take action on the matter and offer solutions that allow you to enjoy the game without having to resort to prohibited practices.