Screenshot: The Pokémon Company / Kotaku

Pokémon TCG Pocket Can Be Deeply Confusing At First, So Here Are The Basics

by · Kotaku

The pop culture impact of Pokémon has ensured a huge number of people have already checked out Pokémon TCG Pocket, even if it is only as curiosity. The chances are, if you’re among them, the massive amount of content and currencies can be a bit overwhelming, especially if you don’t have any previous experience with the series or other free-to-play games. This guide will explain everything you need to know about Pokémon TCG Pocket.

What is Pokémon TCG Pocket?

Screenshot: The Pokémon Company / Kotaku

As the name implies, Pokémon TCG Pocket is a free-to-play mobile version of the Pokémon TCG and is available on iOS and Android. The app offers a lighter simulation of the excitement of the physical game, letting you open up booster packs, add them to your “binder,” and use those cards to build decks and battle other players or the computer. Much like the real TCG, you can choose to approach it as you prefer, whether that’s by collecting all the cards to admire the stellar artwork, or to create a brutal arsenal of Pokémon that will crush other players online.

You can also engage in different missions that provide rewards upon completion. Some of them can be fairly simple, such as opening a pack, while others could require you to collect specific cards or register a set number in the Card Dex—basically the record of your collection. Most of these will be completed just by playing the game, but you do need to remember to go into the Mission Menu to collect your rewards.