Pokémon TCG Online
By Neilie Johnson,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Faithful but unstable digital version of original card game.
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Pokémon TCG Online
Community Reviews
Based on 4 parent reviews
Disgusting company.
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Entertaining and competitive game with logical and cognitive strategy
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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?
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
- Devices: iPad, Android
- Pricing structure: Free (with optional in-app purchases)
- Release date: September 30, 2014
- Category: Card Games
- Topics: Magic and Fantasy
- Publisher: The Pokemon Company International, Inc.
- Version: 2.39.0
- Minimum software requirements: iOS 7.1 or later; Android 4.0 and up
- Last updated: November 1, 2016
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