Pokémon TCG Pocket Will Make You Dread Going First In Battles

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Some of the changes made to compared to the original TCG can make players very wary of taking the first turn in battles. The battle system presented in the mobile game is notably different to the original tabletop game, which allows for much quicker matches. However, some of the changes made to the rules seem specifically engineered to make people dread what would often otherwise appear to be an advantageous position.

In contrast to, which is a far more faithful digital adaptation of the TCG, both provides a streamlined battling experience and places a strong emphasis on collecting cards. It is unsurprising that the game has proven extremely popular, with already earning millions in just a few days. However, the new mobile game is not perfect; not only has it failed to correct one long-running G issue in its battle system, but it has also arguably introduced problems of its own with the changes to its mechanics.

Regardless of format, every game begins with a coin flip to determine which player goes first. However, unlike the original TCG, does not allow a player who wins this flip to choose whether they go first or second. Instead, winning guarantees that a person plays first, something which now carries a significant downside. Not only is the opportunity to determine play order a strategic advantage now lost to the player, but gameplay changes made to ’s battles arguably make going first a major disadvantage.

In, going first typically bars a player from performing several key actions on their initial turn. This is all due to the fact that this player will be unable to attach an Energy from the Energy Zone on this turn, while their opponent will have no such issue. Naturally, the consequences of missing this Energy on turn one can go on to pose a significant problem in battles, even when playing with some of ’s strongest cards.

Being unable to attach an Energy on turn one is potentially disastrous for any player, as it can mean the difference between winning and