Pokemon TCG Pocket's flavor builds on Marvel Snap's upgrades

Announced in February Pokemon TCG Pocket has now officially launched as a casual, wearable alternative to the original on mobile devices Pokemon trading card game. Notably, it's already setting records as the third most successful mobile launch of all time, with first-day sales of $1.9 million and over 10 million downloads within its first 48 hours on the market. As The Pokemon Company continues to innovate in the gaming world, it's evident that its latest mobile game builds on the foundations of Second Dinner's superhero card game. Marvel Snap.

Although deck building games like Balatro, Gwent: The Witcher Card GameAnd Warhammer 40,000: Warpforge could also have influenced the development of Pokemon TCG Pocketthe parallels with Marvel Snap are particularly noticeable. What's notable is that the flair mechanic is diminishing Marvel Snap. Specifically, it appears to be comparable to the upgrade system introduced in the 2022 card game.

Pokemon TCG Pocket may have been inspired by Marvel Snap

Pokemon TCG Pocket Flair Feature Rewards Collector

In Marvel SnapUpgrading a map brings various aesthetic changes while also increasing the player's collection level. As players increase their collection level, they earn currency, boosters, credits, and new cards. While not all of these rewards are equally important, together they play a crucial role in winning games and climbing the rankings.

Additionally, Marvel Snap Includes six upgradeable card tiers, ranging from Uncommon to Infinite. The Infinity Level cards are particularly sought after for their “maximum quality” and their eye-catching purple animated frame. At this point, players can also unlock Infinity Splits, making them attractive to collectors as they provide another way to enhance the visual style of a player's collection with unique animated effects and artwork.

Although Pokemon TCG Pocket Developer DeNA has not explicitly confirmed this Marvel Snapit is likely that they were influenced by it. Some have even referred to the game as “Pokemon meets.” Marvel Snapand highlights their similar adaptation systems as a notable point. When Pokemon TCG Pocket Following release, The Pokemon Company highlighted the ability to customize card collections in a variety of ways, including:

• Scoreboards
• binder
• Playmats
• Card Sleeves
• Coins
• flair

Given the 2024 version's wide range of customization options, it's clear that the developers aimed to provide players with a satisfying experience. Finally, Pokemon TCG Pocket is a bite-sized version of the nearly 30-year-old card game with simplified gameplay and a mobile-friendly design. Throughout history, rare and eye-catching Pokémon cards have always been one of the highlights of the franchise.

For those with duplicate cards, the Get Flavor option is a great way to express yourself without hindering battle progress. By using Shinedust currency and additional card copies, players can apply special effects that not only improve their cards, but also ensure that duplicates retain their value as their card dex expands. This mechanic encourages collecting multiple copies of cards, fostering a sense of progression and personalization.

Similar Marvel SnapOnce Flairs are equipped, both players and their opponents will be able to see these effects in action in combat. Currently, Flairs come in four different rarities, but players will need to unlock lower recipes before they can get the more expensive ones. To craft Flairs, players must be in the “My Cards” menu. However, if players plan on participating in trading at launch, they might consider holding onto some of their rarer cards.

No map upgrades in
Marvel Snap
nor Cosmetic Flairs or Battle Flairs in
Pokemon TCG Pocket
Give players an advantage in combat.

However, some players are already expressing a desire for more innovation within the Flair mechanic, suggesting that it should remain active at all times during battles and be applied to all copies of the card in their deck. Given that the mobile game is still in its early stages and trading has yet to be implemented, it is clear that further updates are needed Pokemon TCG Pocket are on the horizon. Possible changes could significantly improve the gaming experience and provide new opportunities for socialization and excitement for the growing player base.