The Pokémon TCG Pocket Update: Deluxe: ex Cards Coming in 2026

In an exciting yet somewhat delayed announcement, The Pokémon Company has revealed plans to retroactively include Deluxe: ex cards in all Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) Pocket card dex catalogs, but fans will have to wait until 2026 for this update. The move comes in response to significant community feedback regarding the cataloging of Deluxe: ex cards, which had previously left many collectors feeling frustrated and disappointed.

Background: The Pokémon TCG Pocket

Launched to coincide with the growing popularity of mobile gaming, Pokémon TCG Pocket allows players to engage with the beloved trading card game on their smartphones and tablets. The app has garnered a loyal following since its inception, offering players a chance to collect cards, build decks, and battle opponents in classic Pokémon style. However, the app's user experience and card cataloging have been met with mixed reviews, particularly concerning the management of special card types.

What Are Deluxe: ex Cards?

Deluxe: ex cards are a special subset of cards introduced to the Pokémon TCG, designed to enhance gameplay and collection value. These cards often feature unique artwork and mechanics, attracting collectors and competitive players alike. However, when the Pokémon TCG Pocket app launched, these Deluxe: ex cards were not included in the general cataloging system, leading to noticeable gaps in players' collections. This absence was particularly frustrating for avid collectors aiming for a complete Pokédex.

The Community's Outcry

In recent weeks, the Pokémon TCG community expressed their dissatisfaction with the exclusion of Deluxe: ex cards from the app's catalog. Fans took to social media platforms, including X (formerly Twitter), to voice their concerns. Many users shared screenshots of their incomplete catalogs, highlighting the unwelcome gaps that the absence of these cards created.

Consequently, the outcry prompted The Pokémon Company to reassess its approach to cataloging within the app. Acknowledging the community's feedback, the company issued a brief post on X, outlining their plans to integrate Deluxe: ex cards into existing card dex catalogs retroactively.

Looking Ahead: The 2026 Update

While the announcement has been met with relief by many in the community, the timeline for implementation is less than ideal. The Pokémon Company has indicated that the full integration of Deluxe: ex cards will not occur until 2026, leaving fans to wait several years before their collections can be accurately represented.

This timeline raises questions regarding the motivations and planning behind the app's development. Why has it taken so long for The Pokémon Company to address this issue? And what does this mean for the future of Pokémon TCG Pocket?

Analysis: A Balancing Act Between Gameplay and Collection

In the competitive world of trading card games, balance is crucial. Players want access to the full range of cards to create diverse and effective decks. However, collectors seek a complete and satisfying experience when cataloging their collections. The exclusion of Deluxe: ex cards from Pokémon TCG Pocket's catalogs created frustration on both fronts, as players felt their gameplay options were limited, while collectors struggled with incomplete listings.

The Pokémon Company’s decision to retroactively include these cards showcases an attempt to strike a balance between these competing interests. However, the delay in implementation raises concerns about player engagement and satisfaction in the interim.

What This Means for Players and Collectors

For players, the retroactive inclusion of Deluxe: ex cards means that they will eventually have full access to these unique cards, allowing for more strategic gameplay and deck-building. For collectors, it offers a chance to complete their Pokédex without the anxiety of missing out on key cards.

However, the lengthy wait could potentially dissuade new players and collectors from engaging with the app, especially if they perceive it as lacking in comprehensive support for the full card catalog. The Pokémon Company must navigate these waters carefully to ensure continued engagement with its mobile audience.

The Future of Pokémon TCG Pocket

As we look towards 2026, the anticipation for the update grows. It remains to be seen whether the Pokémon TCG Pocket app will continue to evolve and adapt to the needs of its dedicated fanbase. With the trading card game landscape constantly shifting and expanding, The Pokémon Company has an opportunity to enhance the app's features and user experience further.

In the meantime, players and collectors will have to make do with the current catalog while eagerly awaiting the promised update. Continued community feedback and engagement will be crucial in shaping the future of Pokémon TCG Pocket as it strives to become a premier platform for Pokémon enthusiasts.

Conclusion

The announcement regarding the retroactive inclusion of Deluxe: ex cards in Pokémon TCG Pocket's catalogs is a step in the right direction for The Pokémon Company. However, the delay until 2026 leaves a significant gap in the meantime. As the community awaits the promised update, it will be interesting to see how The Pokémon Company addresses ongoing concerns and enhances the overall experience for players and collectors alike.