The Pokémon Company has confirmed it currently lacks plans to integrate Pokémon TCG Pocket into its competitive esports scene. This article delves into the reasons behind this decision and explores the game's future competitive prospects.
Pokémon TCG Pocket: No Immediate Competitive Plans
Chris Brown, Director of eSports at The Pokémon Company, recently stated in a VGC interview (February 25, 2025) that while they continuously explore new titles for competitive inclusion, Pokémon TCG Pocket isn't currently on the roadmap. He humorously referenced Pokémon Sleep's hypothetical competitive potential (a previous April Fool's joke), emphasizing that, for now, there are no plans for Pokémon TCG Pocket's competitive debut, but the possibility remains open.
Early Stages and Balancing Concerns
While no official reasons have been given, speculation points towards the game's relative infancy (only four months old as of February 2025, with two sets released since its October 2024 launch). Although in-app competitive features exist, ongoing balance issues have been a concern for players. Furthermore, Pokémon TCG Pocket's simplified mechanics, designed for accessibility, differ significantly from the original game, making a competitive focus less central to its initial design philosophy.
Despite this, the Pokémon Competitive Circuit remains robust, featuring Pokémon TCG, Pokémon GO, Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, and Pokémon Unite, all culminating in the upcoming Pokémon World Championships in August 2025 in Anaheim, California. For more on Pokémon TCG Pocket, visit our dedicated page.
Anticipation for Pokémon Presents: Potential New Set Reveal
The upcoming Pokémon Presents could unveil a new set for Pokémon TCG Pocket, following the January 30, 2025 release of Space Time Smackdown. While the livestream's content remains unannounced, fans anticipate significant franchise news. Speculation also surrounds potential updates on Pokémon Legends: Z-A (previously slated for a 2025 release) and newly announced Mega Evolutions. The Pokémon Presents, airing February 27, 2025, at 6 AM PT / 9 AM ET on YouTube and Twitch, may shed light on Pokémon's broader plans. Visit our Pokémon Day 2025 page for details.