Pokémon TCG Pocket has grown massively since the casual card game arrived on mobile in 2024, but will it eventually grow into a competitive esports scene like the trading card game and video game?
In an interview with Video Game Chronicle, The Pokémon Company discussed Pokémon TCG Pocket’s future in esports. And it’s not looking likely.
Pokémon TCG Pocket Will Remain Casual
The Pokémon Company’s Director of Global Esports, Chris Brown, recently discussed the company’s esports landscape, including if Pocket has a space there.
“We’re always looking at different titles,” Brown said. “Pokémon Sleep is out there, too. But at this time, there are no plans for Pokémon TCG Pocket to join, but we’re always looking at things.”
Right now, competitive Pokémon titles include Pokémon Scarlet & Violet on the VGC side, the Pokémon TCG and Pokémon UNITE. In the past, Pokken had a competitive FGC scene. All of these games have been part of The Pokémon Company’s competitive season, with pro players from around the world showing up at regionals, internationals and championships.
With the TCG already seen as Pokémon’s competitive card game, Pokémon TCG Pocket is not likely to join the fray.
Released in October 2024, Pokémon TCG Pocket earned over $400m (~£316m) in revenue over its first 10 weeks. However, this has all been in-game purchases aimed at opening packs faster. First and foremost, Pocket is a game about collecting cards. The card battles are a heavily simplified version of the traditional trading card game.
With a smaller pool of cards to choose from, simplified items and supporters, and a consistent Energy Zone to use each turn, the community has also questioned Pokémon TCG Pocket regarding its current competitive state, including the game’s balance.