A Japanese YouTuber has achieved a remarkable feat in Pokémon TCG Pocket, accumulating an impressive collection of 50,000 cards through daily Poké Gold purchases since the game's launch. This dedication, coupled with the game's recent McDonald's collaboration, highlights the game's growing popularity. Let's delve into the details.
YouTuber's Daily Poké Gold Spree
A $8,500+ Investment (and that's before sales!)
Hajimesyacho, a popular Japanese YouTuber known for diverse content ranging from product reviews to vlogs and challenges, recently revealed his impressive Pokémon TCG Pocket accomplishment on Twitter (X). Since the game's October 30, 2024 launch, he's consistently purchased the maximum 720 Poké Gold daily. This translates to approximately $100 per day, totaling an estimated $8,500 over the 85 days the game has been live. This figure excludes any potential savings from in-game sales events during the launch period and the holidays. His dedication showcases a commitment to completing his collection from the Genetic Apex (A1) and Mythical Island booster packs, along with acquiring limited-time promo cards. The latest addition to his collection is the newly released "Pokedex" Trainer card, awarded for global card collection milestones.
McDonald's and Pokémon: A Happy Meal Collaboration
Adding to the excitement, The Pokémon Company announced a thrilling collaboration with McDonald's on January 21, 2025. Pokémon-themed Happy Meals now include collectible physical cards and items from the Pokémon TCG Pocket series. Fifteen unique physical cards are available, including popular Pokémon like Miraidon, Roaring Moon, Rayquaza, and more, with seven featuring a coveted "holo" or "foil" finish. Pokémon TCG Pocket players can also redeem in-game rewards: 24 Pack Hourglasses and 12 Hourglasses for opening booster packs and selecting cards from Wonder Pick.
Four unique Happy Meal box designs featuring Charizard, Rayquaza, Roaring Moon, and Dragonite alongside Pikachu are available at participating McDonald's locations while supplies last. Remember, the in-game rewards expire on March 31, 2025.
Trading Arrives in Pokémon TCG Pocket
On January 17, 2025, Pokémon TCG Pocket announced details of its upcoming trading feature via Twitter (X). Trading will initially be limited to friends with cards of the same rarity (1-4 diamonds and 1-star). Rarer cards, such as Special Illustration Rare, Immersive, and Crown Rares, are excluded from trading. A consumable item will be required for each trade, similar to the Stardust system in Pokémon GO.
While cards from the Genetic Apex (A1) and Mythical Island booster packs will be tradeable, the developers have assured players that more cards will be added in the future. A new booster pack is also teased for release this January, although the exact date remains unannounced.