Pokémon TCG Pocket faced backlash following the release of new immersive cards featuring Ho-Oh and Lugia EX. The controversy began when Japanese players identified similarities between the new artwork and existing illustrations, leading to plagiarism accusations. In response, the official Pocket team issued a detailed statement clarifying the issue.
According to developers, the card production team mistakenly provided incorrect reference materials to the commissioned artist. The team emphasized that the illustrator was not at fault and urged players to refrain from directing criticism at the artist. As part of the resolution, Ho-Oh and Lugia EX will be temporarily replaced with placeholder artwork until new official versions are completed.
The team confirmed that new safeguards are being put in place to prevent such issues in the future. The response, which quickly gained over 23,000 likes, helped calm community outrage before the new set’s full rollout. This week’s update delivers both a major clarification and a fresh gameplay twist for Pokémon TCG Pocket.
New Baby Pack Mechanic with 8.33% Pull Rate
A new gameplay feature also debuted: the six-card baby pack. This special booster type guarantees a Baby Pokémon in the sixth slot and currently has an 8.33% drop rate. While this appears exclusive to the latest set, it may become a recurring mechanic in future expansions.
Each six-card pack includes five standard cards and a guaranteed baby Pokémon such as Magby, Elekid, or Tyrogue. Current analysis suggests that these packs do not interfere with the drop rates of other cards like EX or shiny Pokémon, although official confirmation is still pending.
Summoning Experience: EX Pulls Remain Scarce (Pokémon TCG Pocket)
Players have reported lower EX pull rates despite opening numerous packs. One example session involved more than 60 packs yielding only one Ho-Oh immersive and a single Donphan EX. Meanwhile, less desirable cards such as Lickilicky appeared frequently, often in duplicates.
Several standout cards like Tyranitar and Umbreon did appear, but the overall EX ratio has left many frustrated. Baby Pokémon from the new pack type appeared more often than expected, helping build decks like Donphan or Flareon, but leaving players unable to form complete EX lineups.
What’s Next for Pokémon TCG Pocket Players?
The new baby pack system adds variety to pulls, but community frustration around inconsistent drop rates continues. Developers have hinted at more updates coming soon, which may include rate adjustments and new features to improve fairness.
The immersive artwork update remains in progress, and future card sets will likely include stricter production oversight. Until then, players are advised to manage expectations around EX pulls and take advantage of guaranteed baby Pokémon to build viable decks.
Players can continue using their existing decks while waiting for updated artwork to arrive. Developers already began reviewing future card pipelines to avoid similar mistakes. The team also confirmed that the placeholder cards will not affect gameplay balance. As more details emerge, community testers will share impressions of the new art and pack mechanics. Stay tuned for further announcements once the updated cards roll out in-game.
