Parents' Guide to Pokémon TCG Online

App iPad , Android Free Card Games
Pokémon TCG Online Poster Image

Common Sense Media Review

By Neilie Johnson , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 9+

Faithful but unstable digital version of original card game.

Parents Need to Know

Why Age 9+?

Any Positive Content?

Parent and Kid Reviews

age 8+

Based on 3 parent reviews

age 9+

Based on 2 kid reviews

Privacy Rating Warning

  • Personal information is not sold or rented to third parties.
  • Personal information is shared for third-party marketing.
  • Personalised advertising is displayed.
  • Data are collected by third-parties for their own purposes.
  • User's information is used to track and target advertisements on other third-party websites or services.
  • Data profiles are created and used for personalised advertisements.

What's It About?

POKÉMON TCG ONLINE is a digital version of the original tabletop Pokémon trading card game. It involves collecting and powering up monster cards for use in competitive matches. Matches can be played against the computer or online against other players from around the world. Cards can be traded or bought in packs. There are five modes: Trainer Challenge, Versus, Events, Tutorial, and Quick Match. Players can create and save their own custom card decks and can buy new decks with tokens earned in-game or tickets bought with real money. Through an online account, parents can control a kid's access to trading, chat, and purchases.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say ( 3 ):
Kids say ( 2 ):

If not for serious login and stability issues, this would be a fantastic digital translation of the original TCG. It's possible to play without creating a Trainer Club profile, and progress is saved when you're a Guest, but to access all the game's features, a profile is required. Login functionality is spotty, and the app often thinks you're logged in when you aren't. Also, it sometimes doesn't recognize correct account information, which can make getting started a hassle. Stability is OK on the iPad, but Android players have suffered from frequent crashes. Aside from these technical issues, Pokémon TCG Online has a lot of fun to offer. Gameplay is quick and features great visuals and sometimes sound (some music and sound effects seem to be missing). The Trainer Challenge lets you try out differently themed decks and gives you plenty of opportunity to earn rewards while you learn the ropes. With custom deck backs and avatars, you can personalize your gameplay. Though collectible games tend to promote in-game purchases, it's totally possible to play forever without having to spend a dime, and parents can control how much access kids have to chat and buying coins, which makes this a solid choice for Pokémon lovers.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the global Pokémon phenomenon and using Pokémon TCG Online. How has the Pokémon game community changed the way you play?

  • Set expectations for in-app purchases. If they're allowed, how much can kids buy?

  • Discuss good sportsmanship. What makes someone a good winner or a good loser, and how does that translate to their behavior online?

  • Think about how online communities bring people together. Do you have any gamer friends from other countries?

App Details

Did we miss something on diversity?

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Pokémon TCG Online Poster Image

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