8.6 /10 1 Votes
Distributor(s) Nintendo Engine Unity Publisher The Pokémon Company | 4.3/5 Google Play Series Pokémon Initial release date 24 March 2011 Genre Collectible card game | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Platforms Android, iOS, Microsoft Windows, Macintosh operating systems Modes Multiplayer video game, Single-player video game Similar Collectible card games, Other games | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Pokémon TCG Online is the digital version of the Pokémon Trading Card Game, and is available for Microsoft Windows, OS X, iPad and Android. It was originally released in April 2011 as Pokémon Trainer Challenge.
Contents
Gameplay
In the Trainer Challenge mode, the player competes against a range of computer-controlled characters using preconstructed theme decks. Winning a number of matches earns booster packs of cards.
In Versus Mode, human players compete. Winning earns tokens or tournament entry tickets, as well as Versus Points that contribute to earning prizes from a Versus Ladder that is reset every three weeks, adding new prizes and removing all Versus Points. There are four play modes. In Theme mode, only pre-constructed theme decks may be used. In standard mode the player's deck can only use cards which are legal in the current standard rotation (each year older cards are retired from play). Expanded mode allows cards from the expanded rotation and in unlimited mode any cards are allowed however the unlimited mode has been restricted to only be a playable option with those people that you are friends with online due to exploitation of non competitive tactics.
Tournament mode involves eight players fighting through three rounds of a single–elimination style contest. The rewards increase in-line with the finishing position of the player. Winning at least one match in a ticket-entry ensures a tradeable booster pack as a reward.
Winning matches earns tokens which can be used to purchase items such as booster packs of cards, preconstructed theme decks or avatar customization items.
The game initially offered three starting decks, and featured more content after release. After April 6, 2011, players could buy cards from the Black and White series, which have a code to be digitally represented. Players can also create a custom avatar. There were booster pack codes which allow booster packs up to Black and White—Boundaries Crossed to be purchased from the online shop. However, as of Black and White—Plasma Storm, the code card within booster packs are now directly redeemed as online booster packs of their respective set.
Reception
GamesRadar praised the game, stating "Everything looks to be faithfully recreated, including the card mat, prize card layout, and even coins."