Pokemon has always been bigger than video games. Since the mid-1990s, Pikachu and friends have dominated everything from anime to McDonald's Happy Meal toys. Now, Pokemon TCG Pocket modernizes another Pokemon pillar. This free Android and iOS game digitally recreates the Pokemon trading card game so you can catch 'em all on your phone. Although Pokemon TCG Pocket isn't our favorite take on adorable monster battles, it's a snazzy way to admire virtual pocket monsters.

Collecting Digital Pokemon Cards

Don’t confuse Pokemon TCG Pocket with Pokemon TCG Live, the previous and now outdated Pokemon card game mobile app. Pokemon TCG Pocket is a new start for your card collection, and the collecting element is the app’s strongest attribute. Pokemon TCG Pocket recognizes that the unpredictable physical act of discovering new Pokemon cards—the tension, anticipation, and release—is a vital gameplay component. It must be preserved as best as possible, even in virtual form.

Pokemon TCG Pocket

TCG Pocket gifts your first card pack. You start by browsing shiny foil Genetic Apex booster packs, the app’s inaugural card set. From there, you use your handset's touch screen to rip open the pack and flip through the fresh rewards. That tactile pleasure, combined with flashing lights and sound effects, never grows old. You obtain new packs by patiently waiting for your stamina to refill or spending money, which we'll explain later.