Pokémon fans can gear up for exciting news as the Pokémon Company announced the upcoming release of the 'Time's Tempest' expansion pack for the popular mobile game, Pokémon Trading Card Game Pocket (PokéPoké). Scheduled for launch on January 30, 2024, this expansion will introduce players to new gameplay dynamics and cards, featuring legendary Pokémon Dialga and Palkia alongside several others.
According to the Pokémon Company, the expansion pack will consist of two distinct collections: 'Time's Tempest Dialga' and 'Time's Tempest Palkia.' Both collections will not only celebrate these iconic Pokémon from the franchise but also include various other characters familiar to players, such as the starters from 'Pokémon Diamond and Pearl' - Turtwig, Chimchar, and Piplup. This return to the franchise's roots is sure to delight long-time fans and newcomers alike.
The Pokémon Company has offered teasers about the cards included in this expansion. For example, players can look forward to the introduction of Dialga ex, which boasts 150 HP and steel typing. Dialga ex's attack options include 'Metal Turbo,' dealing 30 damage and allowing players to attach two steel energy cards from their energy zone to one of their benched Pokémon. This makes it a strategic choice for players who wish to bolster their benches. Another attack, 'Heavy Impact,' requires two steel energies and two of any other energy types, delivering 100 damage to opponents.
Palkia ex is equally impressive, also featuring 150 HP but with water typing. Palkia's attacks 'Slice' and 'Dimension Storm' allow players to manipulate their energy cards strategically, especially the latter, which promises 150 damage at the cost of discarding three water energies. The ability to inflict such high damage, combined with effects on the opponent’s bench, invites players to rethink their battle tactics.
Players will also be introduced to Lucario, the evolved form of Riolu. This fighting-type Pokémon has its own unique abilities, with Lucario having the attack 'Submarine Blow' and the trait 'Fighting Coach.' The trait increases damage by 20 for all fighting-type Pokémon attacks as long as Lucario is active, which could shift the game dramatically for teams focused on fighting types.
Alongside these new features, another exciting component being added is the card trading feature, set to launch on January 29, 2024, one day before the expansion goes live. This enhancement allows players to trade Pokémon cards with friends, fostering community interaction within the game. To utilize this feature, players must spend certain items to facilitate trading, and they can only trade cards of the same rarity. Initial trading capabilities will only support select cards from previous expansions such as 'Strongest Genes' and 'Isle with Mysteries,' with plans to update the card listing regularly.
Following the expansion's release, players can anticipate new collection files and boards showcasing legendary Pokémon such as Dialga, Palkia, and mythical Pokémon Darkrai. With the community eagerly awaiting their arrival, it remains uncertain whether Darkrai will also be playable within the new expansion.
The Pokémon Trading Card Game Pocket app, available on iOS and Android, continues to evolve with innovative features and expansions like 'Time's Tempest.' With its free-to-play model and additional purchase options for items, players can deeply engage without barriers. This expansion promises to not only enrich the gameplay experience but also revitalize the joy of collecting.
Mark your calendars for January 30 to jump back to the battlefield with legendary Pokémon and explore what 'Time's Tempest' has to offer. It’s time for trainers worldwide to prepare their decks and redefine their strategies.