Pokémon Trading Card Game Online: Difference between revisions
Marlofkark (talk | contribs) (→Theme decks: update to accessibility of Exclusive Theme decks) |
Marlofkark (talk | contribs) (updated Bonus Wheel to reflect 2.28.1 changes; added "Locked cards" subheading; moved "Coins", additional edits) |
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| style="background: #FFF; {{roundytl|5px}}; {{roundytr|5px}}; {{roundybl|5px}}; {{roundybr|5px}};" | | | style="background: #FFF; {{roundytl|5px}}; {{roundytr|5px}}; {{roundybl|5px}}; {{roundybr|5px}};" | | ||
;Random Battle | ;Random Battle | ||
:Formally an option under ''[[#Ranked Battle|Ranked Battle]]''. This feature allows players to play against another randomly selected online player. Players earn a single [[#Trainer Token|Trainer Token]] for each match played (''"Expert Matchmaking Reward"''), provided they have met [[#Miscellaneous|minimum playtime requirements]], plus 2 Trainer Tokens if they {{DL|Appendix:Glossary (TCG)|Winning|win}} a match versus a player who was ''[[#Player rank|ranked]]'' by TCGO as having an ''"Advantage"'' based on player play history (''"Game Advantage Upset Reward"''). Additionally, players are give the chance to spin the [[#Bonus Wheel|Bonus Wheel]], which provides an opportunity to receive Trainer Tokens, [[#Tournament Tickets|Tournament Tickets]], or a [[#Mystery Box|Mystery Box]] reward. Trainer Tokens and the Bonus Wheel are provided to both players regardless of the outcome of the match. | :Formally an option under ''[[#Ranked Battle|Ranked Battle]]''. This feature allows players to play against another randomly selected online player. Players earn a single [[#Trainer Token|Trainer Token]] for each match played (''"Expert Matchmaking Reward"''), provided they have met [[#Miscellaneous|minimum playtime requirements]], plus 2 Trainer Tokens if they {{DL|Appendix:Glossary (TCG)|Winning|win}} a match versus a player who was ''[[#Player rank|ranked]]'' by TCGO as having an ''"Advantage"'' based on player/deck play history (''"Game Advantage Upset Reward"''). Additionally, players are give the chance to spin the [[#Bonus Wheel|Bonus Wheel]], which provides an opportunity to receive Trainer Tokens, [[#Tournament Tickets|Tournament Tickets]], or a [[#Mystery Box|Mystery Box]] reward. Trainer Tokens and the Bonus Wheel are provided to both players regardless of the outcome of the match. | ||
;Friend Battle | ;Friend Battle | ||
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===Trainer Tokens=== | ===Trainer Tokens=== | ||
{{main|Trainer Token}} | {{main|Trainer Token}} | ||
Trainer Tokens may be used to redeem non-tradable, 5-card {{TCG|Booster pack}}s (95 [[Trainer Token]]s) from current [[List of Pokémon Trading Card Game expansions|expansions]] of the game and [[#Non-exclusive Theme decks|Non-exclusive Theme decks]] (500 Trainer Tokens) also from current [[List of Pokémon Trading Card Game expansions|expansions]] of the game, as well as [[#Avatar Creator|Avatar]] and [[#Gameplay items|Gameplay]] | Trainer Tokens may be used to redeem non-tradable, 5-card {{TCG|Booster pack}}s (95 [[Trainer Token]]s) from current [[List of Pokémon Trading Card Game expansions|expansions]] of the game and [[#Non-exclusive Theme decks|Non-exclusive Theme decks]] (500 Trainer Tokens) also from current [[List of Pokémon Trading Card Game expansions|expansions]] of the game, as well as [[#Avatar Creator|Avatar]] and [[#Gameplay items|Gameplay items]]. They are obtained through various means, including [[#Daily Challenge|Daily Challenges]], [[#Trainer Challenge|Trainer Challenges]], [[#Opponent types|Random Battle]] matches in the [[#Versus Mode|Versus Mode]] and [[#Tournament Mode|Tournament Mode]], and the [[#Bonus Wheel|Bonus Wheel]]. | ||
Trainer Tokens are also be obtained by playing various [[Pokémon.com online games|browser-based games]] or by earning {{DL|Pokémon.com|Stamps}} and reading articles on [[Pokémon.com]]. They may also be spent on various items for a player's Pokémon.com Trainer Avatar. This is similar to but distinct from the [[#Avatar Creator|Pokémon TCG Online Avatar]] within the game itself. | Trainer Tokens are also be obtained by playing various [[Pokémon.com online games|browser-based games]] or by earning {{DL|Pokémon.com|Stamps}} and reading articles on [[Pokémon.com]]. They may also be spent on various items for a player's Pokémon.com Trainer Avatar. This is similar to but distinct from the [[#Avatar Creator|Pokémon TCG Online Avatar]] within the game itself. | ||
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===Gems=== | ===Gems=== | ||
Gems are currently only available to adult players in Canada for testing and are purchased from the [[#in-game Shop|in-game Shop]]. Similar to [[#Trainer Tokens|Trainer Tokens]], Gems may be used to purchase {{TCG|Booster pack}}s, [[#Non-exclusive Theme decks|Non-exclusive Theme decks]], [[#Avatar Creator|Avatar]] items, and [[#Gameplay items|Gameplay]] | Gems are currently only available to adult players in Canada for testing and are purchased from the [[#in-game Shop|in-game Shop]]. Similar to [[#Trainer Tokens|Trainer Tokens]], Gems may be used to purchase {{TCG|Booster pack}}s, [[#Non-exclusive Theme decks|Non-exclusive Theme decks]], [[#Avatar Creator|Avatar]] items, and [[#Gameplay items|Gameplay items]] in the Shop or used as a currency for trading with other players. | ||
* ''NOTE: A Gem is typically equal to 2 Trainer Tokens.'' | * ''NOTE: A Gem is typically equal to 2 Trainer Tokens.'' | ||
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* ''NOTE: Players can only choose '''ONE CHALLENGE PER DAY'''. At higher [[#Player level|Player levels]], players have the opportunity to choice between two and eventually three options each day. However, they can only choose ONE of them. '''All additional challenges that players do not select are LOST'''. While players may choose another challenge on the following day and may also store up to two or three old challenges at higher [[#Player level|Player levels]], players can never pick up more than one new challenge each day.'' | * ''NOTE: Players can only choose '''ONE CHALLENGE PER DAY'''. At higher [[#Player level|Player levels]], players have the opportunity to choice between two and eventually three options each day. However, they can only choose ONE of them. '''All additional challenges that players do not select are LOST'''. While players may choose another challenge on the following day and may also store up to two or three old challenges at higher [[#Player level|Player levels]], players can never pick up more than one new challenge each day.'' | ||
As players successfully complete challenges, they earn [[#Trainer Tokens|Trainer Tokens]] and random {{TCG|Booster pack}}s. Each Daily Challenge has an {{DL|Appendix:Glossary (TCG)|Pokémon types|Pokémon type}} associated with it as well as an ''Experience Point (or XP)'' value, which are applied to that given Pokémon type. Each Pokémon type starts at Level 0 (zero) and increases to Level 3, unlocking special Pokémon type themed [[# | As players successfully complete challenges, they earn [[#Trainer Tokens|Trainer Tokens]] and random {{TCG|Booster pack}}s. Each Daily Challenge has an {{DL|Appendix:Glossary (TCG)|Pokémon types|Pokémon type}} associated with it as well as an ''Experience Point (or XP)'' value, which are applied to that given Pokémon type. Each Pokémon type starts at Level 0 (zero) and increases to Level 3, unlocking special Pokémon type themed [[#Gameplay items|Coins]] (Level 1), Card sleeves (Level 2), and Deck boxes (Level 3). It takes a total of 5 XP for players to reach Level 1 in a given Pokémon type and then 5 more XP for Level 2. Pokémon type Level 3 requires 10 additional XP. If more XP is earned then required to reach the next level, it rolls over. However, at present, no XP will be applied after players reach Level 3 in a given Pokémon type. [[#Active Challenges/Level Progress|Active Challenges/Level Progress]] in the [[#Player Profile|Player Profile]] will not read more than ''"20/20"''. | ||
Earning a {{DL|Appendix:Glossary (TCG)|Pokémon types|Pokémon type}} level also increases overall [[#Player level|Player level]] by one. Players starts at Player level 0 (zero). Increasing Player level eventually allows players to save and pursue up to three Daily Challenges at one time. | Earning a {{DL|Appendix:Glossary (TCG)|Pokémon types|Pokémon type}} level also increases overall [[#Player level|Player level]] by one. Players starts at Player level 0 (zero). Increasing Player level eventually allows players to save and pursue up to three Daily Challenges at one time. | ||
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* ''NOTE: The first four Daily Challenges may not be abandoned. Players must complete these first four challenges before additional, random challenges are presented.'' | * ''NOTE: The first four Daily Challenges may not be abandoned. Players must complete these first four challenges before additional, random challenges are presented.'' | ||
By ''hovering over'' a given {{DL|Appendix:Glossary (TCG)|Pokémon types|Pokémon type}} with the mouse pointer (or iPad equivalent), a small indicator will show players how much XP they have earned to date for the next Pokémon type level and how much total XP is needed to reach that level. | By ''hovering over'' a given {{DL|Appendix:Glossary (TCG)|Pokémon types|Pokémon type}} with the mouse pointer (or iPad equivalent), a small indicator will show players how much XP they have earned to date for the next Pokémon type level and how much total XP is needed to reach that level. Players must hover over the progress bar itself on a Daily Challenge in order for a similar indicator to appear detailing challenge progress. | ||
===Challenge list=== | ===Challenge list=== | ||
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The Bonus Wheel provides an opportunity to receive special bonus rewards such as [[#Trainer Tokens|Trainer Tokens]], [[#Tournament Tickets|Tournament Tickets]], or a [[#Mystery Box|Mystery Box]]. Spins on the Bonus Wheel are earned through participation in a ''Random Battle'' in [[#Versus Mode|Versus Mode]] or a tournament {{DL|Appendix:Glossary (TCG)|Match|match}} in [[#Tournament Mode|Tournament Mode]] against another player. | The Bonus Wheel provides an opportunity to receive special bonus rewards such as [[#Trainer Tokens|Trainer Tokens]], [[#Tournament Tickets|Tournament Tickets]], or a [[#Mystery Box|Mystery Box]]. Spins on the Bonus Wheel are earned through participation in a ''Random Battle'' in [[#Versus Mode|Versus Mode]] or a tournament {{DL|Appendix:Glossary (TCG)|Match|match}} in [[#Tournament Mode|Tournament Mode]] against another player. | ||
There are two Bonus Wheels: a Victor’s Bonus Wheel and a | There are two Bonus Wheels: a ''Victor’s Bonus Wheel'' and a ''Basic Bonus Wheel''. The Victor’s Bonus Wheel includes greater [[#Trainer Tokens|Trainer Token]] amounts, an opportunity to receive [[#Tournament Tickets|Tournament Tickets]], and a high value [[#Mystery Box|Mystery Box]]. | ||
:{| cellspacing="2" cellpadding="2" class="roundy" style="width: 100%; border: 2px solid #44acdb; background: #144d9a;" | :{| cellspacing="2" cellpadding="2" class="roundy" style="width: 100%; border: 2px solid #44acdb; background: #144d9a;" | ||
|- | |- | ||
| style="background: #FFF; {{roundytl|5px}}; {{roundytr|5px}}; {{roundybl|5px}}; {{roundybr|5px}};" | | | style="background: #FFF; {{roundytl|5px}}; {{roundytr|5px}}; {{roundybl|5px}}; {{roundybr|5px}};" | | ||
* Victor's Bonus Wheel: | * ''Victor's Bonus Wheel'': 5 [[#Trainer Tokens|Trainer Tokens]] x3, 10 Trainer Tokens x2, 15 Trainer Tokens x1, 25 Trainer Tokens x1, 1 [[#Tournament Tickets|Tournament Tickets]] x2, and a [[#Mystery Box|Mystery Box]] x1 | ||
* | * ''Basic Bonus Wheel'': 1 [[#Trainer Tokens|Trainer Tokens]] x4, 3 Trainer Tokens x3, 5 Trainer Tokens x2, and a [[#Mystery Box|Mystery Box]] x1 | ||
* ''NOTE: The original, now retired, single Bonus wheel contained 1 to 5 [[#Trainer Tokens|Trainer Tokens]], 1 [[#Tournament Tickets|Tournament Ticket]], | * ''NOTE: The original, now retired, single Bonus wheel contained 1 to 5 [[#Trainer Tokens|Trainer Tokens]], 1 [[#Tournament Tickets|Tournament Ticket]], and a [[#Mystery Box|Mystery Box]].'' | ||
|} | |} | ||
=== | ===Collection viewer=== | ||
This section shows cards, unopened booster packs and [[#Non-exclusive Theme decks|Non-exclusive Theme decks]], and [[#Avatar Creator|Avatar]] and [[#Gameplay items|Gameplay items]] in a player's collection as well as items players tag ''"[[#in-game Trade|For Trade]]"'', ''"Wanted"'', or ''"For Review"''. | |||
=== | ====Trade Locked cards==== | ||
This | Most cards available in the TCGO are ''"Trade Locked"'', meaning that they may not be [[#in-game Trade|Traded]] with other players. This limitation is designed to discourage ''"card farming"'' — players creating extra accounts solely to expand their card collection through card trading (including trades with the player's primary account). Only cards redeemed with [[#Redemption codes|Redemption codes]] found with the purchase of physical [[#Non-exclusive Theme decks|Non-exclusive Theme decks]], {{TCG|Booster pack}}s, and similar collections, gained through Booster packs earned in [[#Tournament Mode|Tournament Mode]], and Booster packs and individual cards earned through the [[#Bonus Wheel|Victor's Bonus Wheel]] are ''"Tradable"''. Two symbols at the bottom of each card in the [[#Collection viewer|Collection viewer]] represent how many Tradable or Trade Locked cards players have in their collection. The left number with a blue background represents tradable cards, while the right number next to the padlock symbol with the grey background represents Trade Locked cards. | ||
===Deck Manager=== | ===Deck Manager=== | ||
This allows the players to view, clone, edit or create decks using obtained cards and items. Decks may be created in either the Standard, Expanded or Unlimited format [[#Play types|Play types]]. Selecting a {{TCG|Standard format}} or {{TCG|Expanded format}} filters out cards not sanctioned for official [[Pokémon Trading Card Game]] events. After selecting a set of 60 cards, a Deck box, [[# | This allows the players to view, clone, edit or create decks using obtained cards and items. Decks may be created in either the Standard, Expanded or Unlimited format [[#Play types|Play types]]. Selecting a {{TCG|Standard format}} or {{TCG|Expanded format}} filters out cards not sanctioned for official [[Pokémon Trading Card Game]] events. After selecting a set of 60 cards, a Deck box, Coin, and Card sleeve [[#Gameplay items|Gameplay item]] may also be selected. While the TCGO presents an option to select a Playmat, only the default Playmat is available at this time. These [[#Gameplay items|Gameplay items]] may be obtained by [[#Redemption codes|Redemption codes]] from code cards or event codes in the [[#in-game Shop|in-game Shop]] or purchased with [[#Trainer Tokens|Trainer Tokens]] or [[#Gems|Gems]]. | ||
===Full Game menu=== | ===Full Game menu=== | ||
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===Gameplay items=== | ===Gameplay items=== | ||
[[#Gameplay items|Gameplay items]] include ''Card sleeves'', '' | [[#Gameplay items|Gameplay items]] include ''Card sleeves'', ''Coins'', and ''Deck boxes''. There is no unique advantage to selecting any one Gameplay item over another. It is solely a matter of player preferences about how certain game elements look. Gameplay items may be purchased from time to time in the [[#in-game Shop|in-game Shop]], made available along with the purchase of [[#Theme decks|Theme decks]] directly from the in-game Shop or through [[#Redemption codes|Redemption codes]] provided with the purchase of physical Theme decks and other select card collections, or may be [[#in-game Trade|Traded]] for with other players. | ||
* ''NOTE: '''Playmates''' are not currently available in the TCGO, although an option to select one in the [[#Deck Manager|Deck Manager]] indicates that they may become available in the future.'' | * ''NOTE: '''Playmates''' are not currently available in the TCGO, although an option to select one in the [[#Deck Manager|Deck Manager]] indicates that they may become available in the future.'' | ||
;Coins | |||
{{main|Coin (TCG)}} | |||
:Coins are [[#Gameplay items|Gameplay items]] that are used in-game when a move, status effect, or ability requires a coin flip. Different coins have no special effects; their only difference is their appearance. Players start out with the Red {{p|Arceus}} coin. At one time, the Blue Energy coin was given to players by completing certain in-game achievements (currently unavailable to newer players). Additional coins are made available when players redeem a purchased [[#Non-exclusive Theme decks|Non-exclusive Theme deck]]'s [[#Redemption codes|Redemption code]] or event code in the [[#in-game Shop|in-game Shop]] or when players purchase a Non-exclusive Theme deck through [[#Trainer Tokens|Trainer Tokens]] or [[#Gems|Gems]]. | |||
===Help menu=== | ===Help menu=== | ||
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===Landing page=== | ===Landing page=== | ||
The Landing page is what players see immediately | The Landing page is what players see immediately upon logging into the game. Its layout of game features is different from the rest of the game. All game features may be accessed on the Landing page except for the [[#Social menu|Social menu]]. The [[#Quick Match|Quick Match]] play mode is only accessible on the Landing page. Players may re-access the Landing page by clicking on the ''Pokémon Trading Card Game Online'' logo in the upper center of most TCGO screens. | ||
===Miscellaneous=== | ===Miscellaneous=== | ||
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===Mystery Box=== | ===Mystery Box=== | ||
Mystery Box rewards are earned on [[#Bonus Wheel|Bonus Wheel]] spins. Rewards include both static rewards (25 Trainer | Mystery Box rewards are earned on [[#Bonus Wheel|Bonus Wheel]] spins. Rewards include both static rewards (25 [[#Trainer Token|Trainer Token]], 4 [[#Tournament Tickets|Tournament Tickets]], a 5-card {{TCG|Booster pack}} from the current {{TCG|Standard format}} expansion or randomly selected from current Standard format [[List of Pokémon Trading Card Game expansions|expansions]]) or items that are updated weekly such as a single expansion or promo card or a [[#Gameplay items|Gameplay item]] such as Coin or Card sleeve. The 4 February 2015 update increased the rewards in a Victor’s Mystery Box to include 50 Trainer Tokens, a larger Tournament Ticket amount, [[#in-game Trade|tradable]] single cards, and tradable 10-card Booster packs. | ||
===in-game Options=== | ===in-game Options=== | ||
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| style="background: #FFF;" | 2 | | style="background: #FFF;" | 2 | ||
| style="background: #FFF;" | 1 | | style="background: #FFF;" | 1 | ||
| style="background: #FFF; {{roundytr|5px}}; {{roundybr|5px}}; text-align: left;" | Players choose | | style="background: #FFF; {{roundytr|5px}}; {{roundybr|5px}}; text-align: left;" | Players choose one of two [[#Daily Challenge|Daily Challenges]] per day and may pursue one Daily Challenge at a time. | ||
|- style="text-align: center; color: black;" | |- style="text-align: center; color: black;" | ||
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| style="background: #FFF;" | 2 | | style="background: #FFF;" | 2 | ||
| style="background: #FFF;" | 2 | | style="background: #FFF;" | 2 | ||
| style="background: #FFF; {{roundytr|5px}}; {{roundybr|5px}}; text-align: left;" | Players choose | | style="background: #FFF; {{roundytr|5px}}; {{roundybr|5px}}; text-align: left;" | Players choose one of two [[#Daily Challenge|Daily Challenges]] per day and may pursue up to two Daily Challenges at a time. | ||
|- style="text-align: center; color: black;" | |- style="text-align: center; color: black;" | ||
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| style="background: #FFF;" | 3 | | style="background: #FFF;" | 3 | ||
| style="background: #FFF;" | 2 | | style="background: #FFF;" | 2 | ||
| style="background: #FFF; {{roundytr|5px}}; {{roundybr|5px}}; text-align: left;" | Players choose | | style="background: #FFF; {{roundytr|5px}}; {{roundybr|5px}}; text-align: left;" | Players choose one of three [[#Daily Challenge|Daily Challenges]] per day and may pursue up to two Daily Challenges at a time. | ||
|- style="text-align: center; color: black;" | |- style="text-align: center; color: black;" | ||
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| style="background: #FFF;" | 3 | | style="background: #FFF;" | 3 | ||
| style="background: #FFF;" | 3 | | style="background: #FFF;" | 3 | ||
| style="background: #FFF; {{roundytr|5px}}; {{roundybr|5px}}; text-align: left;" | Players choose | | style="background: #FFF; {{roundytr|5px}}; {{roundybr|5px}}; text-align: left;" | Players choose one of three [[#Daily Challenge|Daily Challenges]] per day and may pursue up to three Daily Challenges at a time. | ||
|} | |} | ||
===Player rank=== | ===Player rank=== | ||
Little is known about the specific mechanics of the TCGO's ''"Player rank"'' system or exactly when and why players are identified to have an ''"Advantage"'' in a ''[[#Verses Mode|Random Battle]]'' or ''[[#Tournament Mode|Tournament]]'' match. Based on the ranking system, players with an ''"Advantage"'' are not always identified during a {{DL|Appendix:Glossary (TCG)|Match|match}}. However, if TCGO does and the player ''without the "Advantage"'' {{DL|Appendix:Glossary (TCG)|Winning|wins}} the match, the winning player earns 2 [[#Trainer Token|Trainer Token]]s. The ranking system is also used to help match players of similar experience during player versus player ''Random Battle'' matches. The Player rank system is more effective matching players during high player active and less effective when fewer players are looking to play a ''Random Battle'' against other online player. ''"Player rank"'' should not be confused with ''"[[#Player level|Player level]]"'', which is related to the [[#Daily Challenge|Daily Challenge]] reward system. | Little is known about the specific mechanics of the TCGO's ''"Player rank"'' system or exactly when and why players are identified to have an ''"Advantage"'' in a ''[[#Verses Mode|Random Battle]]'' or ''[[#Tournament Mode|Tournament]]'' match. The ranking system appears to be based on specific player deck history instead of overall player history. Based on the ranking system, players with an ''"Advantage"'' are not always identified during a {{DL|Appendix:Glossary (TCG)|Match|match}}. However, if TCGO does and the player ''without the "Advantage"'' {{DL|Appendix:Glossary (TCG)|Winning|wins}} the match, the winning player earns 2 [[#Trainer Token|Trainer Token]]s. The ranking system is also used to help match players of similar experience during player versus player ''Random Battle'' matches. The Player rank system is more effective matching players during high player active and less effective when fewer players are looking to play a ''Random Battle'' against other online player. ''"Player rank"'' should not be confused with ''"[[#Player level|Player level]]"'', which is related to the [[#Daily Challenge|Daily Challenge]] reward system. | ||
===Player Profile=== | ===Player Profile=== | ||
Accessible on the [[#Landing page|Landing page]] or via the [[#Full Game menu|Full Game menu]] in the upper righthand corner of most screens (orange icon that looks like a leftward pointing triangle and three lines). The Profile is found in the top left of the Full Game menu's open side bar and is represented by a | Accessible on the [[#Landing page|Landing page]] or via the [[#Full Game menu|Full Game menu]] in the upper righthand corner of most screens (orange icon that looks like a leftward pointing triangle and three lines). The Profile is found in the top left of the Full Game menu's open side bar and is represented by a icon with the white silhouette of a person's shoulders and head. The Profile includes [[#Statistics|Statistics]], [[#Daily Challenge|Daily Challenge]] information, and [[#Avatar Creator|Avatar Creator]]. | ||
====Statistics==== | ====Statistics==== | ||
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* Total Cards Owned — total number of cards in a player's collection | * Total Cards Owned — total number of cards in a player's collection | ||
* Set Nearest to Completion — [[List of Pokémon Trading Card Game expansions|expansion]] or set with the highest percentage of total cards are in a player's collection | * Set Nearest to Completion — [[List of Pokémon Trading Card Game expansions|expansion]] or set with the highest percentage of total cards are in a player's collection | ||
* Complete Sets — enumeration of expansions or sets of which all cards are in a player's collection | * Complete Sets — enumeration of [[List of Pokémon Trading Card Game expansions|expansion]] or sets of which all cards are in a player's collection | ||
* Most of One Card | * Most of One Card | ||
* Foil Cards Owned — number of [[Holofoil|holofoil and reverse-holofoil | * Foil Cards Owned — number of [[Holofoil|holofoil and reverse-holofoil]] rare cards | ||
|} | |} | ||
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===in-game Shop=== | ===in-game Shop=== | ||
The in-game Shop feature allows players to purchase [[#Non-exclusive Theme decks|Non-exclusive Theme decks]], 5-card {{TCG|Booster pack}}s, [[#Gameplay items|Gameplay items]] (Card sleeves, Deck boxes | The in-game Shop feature allows players to purchase [[#Non-exclusive Theme decks|Non-exclusive Theme decks]], 5-card {{TCG|Booster pack}}s, [[#Gameplay items|Gameplay items]] (Card sleeves, Coins, Deck boxes, etc.), and [[#Avatar Creator|Avatar items]] with either [[#Trainer Tokens|Trainer Tokens]] or [[#Gems|Gems]]. Redeeming [[#Redemption codes|Redemption codes]], found with the physical purchase of the above items, is also done through this in-game Shop. Finally, the Shop allows adult players to purchase Gems and [[#Tournament Tickets|Tournament Tickets]] with real currency. A Gem is typically equal to 2 Trainer Tokens. | ||
====Shop items==== | ====Shop items==== | ||
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| style="background: #FFF; {{roundytl|5px}}; {{roundytr|5px}}; {{roundybl|5px}}; {{roundybr|5px}};" | | | style="background: #FFF; {{roundytl|5px}}; {{roundytr|5px}}; {{roundybl|5px}}; {{roundybr|5px}};" | | ||
* [[#Non-exclusive Theme decks|Non-exclusive Theme decks]] cost 500 [[#Trainer Tokens|Trainer Tokens]]. | * [[#Non-exclusive Theme decks|Non-exclusive Theme decks]] cost 500 [[#Trainer Tokens|Trainer Tokens]]. | ||
* 5-card {{TCG|Booster pack}}s cost 95 Trainer Tokens. | * 5-card {{TCG|Booster pack}}s cost 95 [[#Trainer Tokens|Trainer Tokens]]. | ||
* Limited available Card sleeves cost 275 Trainer Tokens. | * Limited available [[#Gameplay items|Card sleeves]] cost 275 [[#Trainer Tokens|Trainer Tokens]]. | ||
* Limited available Deck boxes cost 150 Trainer Tokens. | * Limited available [[#Gameplay items|Deck boxes]] cost 150 [[#Trainer Tokens|Trainer Tokens]]. | ||
* [[#Avatar Creator|Avatar items]] availability are limited and Trainer | * [[#Avatar Creator|Avatar items]] availability are limited and [[#Trainer Tokens|Trainer Tokens]] cost varies. A wide variety of Avatar items are available at [[Pokémon.com]], and new Avatar items are more routinely release at the Pokémon.com website than in the Pokémon Trading Card Game Online in-game store. | ||
* ''Weekly special rotated'' items vary widely but often include themed Bundles<ref>[http://forums.pokemontcg.com/topic/29839-now-in-the-shop-xy-4-booster-pack-bundle-with-krookodile-ex/ Booster pack bundle, XY 4 Booster Pack Bundle with Krookodile-EX — 01 April 2015]</ref> or Blister packs with a cost range of 200 to 900 [[#Trainer Tokens|Trainer Tokens]] that typically include some combination of {{TCG|Booster pack}}(s), {{TCG|Promotional cards|Promotional card}}(s), and game [[# | * ''Weekly special rotated'' items vary widely but often include themed Bundles<ref>[http://forums.pokemontcg.com/topic/29839-now-in-the-shop-xy-4-booster-pack-bundle-with-krookodile-ex/ Booster pack bundle, XY 4 Booster Pack Bundle with Krookodile-EX — 01 April 2015]</ref> or Blister packs with a cost range of 200 to 900 [[#Trainer Tokens|Trainer Tokens]] that typically include some combination of {{TCG|Booster pack}}(s), {{TCG|Promotional cards|Promotional card}}(s), and game [[#Gameplay items|Coin]]. | ||
|} | |} | ||
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====Blocking players==== | ====Blocking players==== | ||
Players may choose to | Players may choose to ''Block'' other players from interacting with them for any reason within the TCGO, including features such as ''"Chat"'' and [[#Versus Mode|Versus Mode]] ''Random Battles''. This ''"Block and Ignore Player"'' feature is found in the [[#Social menu|Social menu's]] ''"Freind"'' and ''"Chat"'' sections by selecting the head silhouette icon next a player's name and then selecting the "''Block and Ignore Player"'' option. | ||
===in-game Trade=== | ===in-game Trade=== |
Revision as of 13:42, 8 June 2015
Pokémon Trading Card Game Online | |
---|---|
Logo of Pokémon Trading Card Game Online | |
Basic info
| |
Platform: | PC, Mac, and iPad |
Category: | Strategy |
Players: | 1-2, with unlimited in chat |
Connectivity: | Internet |
Developer: | Electrified Games, Sleepy Giant Entertainment, Plexipixel, Inversoft |
Publisher: | The Pokémon Company International |
Part of: | Generation IV misc/V/VI |
Ratings
| |
CERO: | |
ESRB: | E |
ACB: | N/A |
OFLC: | G |
PEGI: | |
GRAC: | N/A |
GSRR: | N/A |
Release dates
| |
Japan: | N/A |
North America: | March 24, 2011 (TC beta) |
Australia: | March 24, 2011 (TC beta) |
Europe: | March 24, 2011 (TC beta) |
South Korea: | N/A |
Hong Kong: | N/A |
Taiwan: | N/A |
Websites
| |
Japanese: | N/A |
English: | Game site |
Pokémon Trading Card Game Online (sometimes referred to as Pokémon TCG Online, PTCGO, or TCGO) is a downloadable game, and the first Pokémon game of the MMOTCG (massively-multiplayer online trading card game) genre. The game was originally released as a browser-based game in March 2011 before being relaunched as a downloadable game in 2012 for the PC and Mac and for iPad in 2014. The game officially emerged from open beta testing in February 2015, but it continues to be refined and improved upon on a continual basis. The game is based on the Pokémon Trading Card Game or TCG aspect of the Pokémon franchise and follows the same rules. The game is also free to download and use. Experience with the trading card game is not required. It is accessible to both beginners and experienced players alike. It is also intended to be used by both children and adults. Players do not need to purchase physical Theme decks or Booster packs from a store in order to play. Players are provided with everything they need to begin playing, and there are multiple means of earning new cards and other rewards as the game is played.
Plot
Players begin their adventure at a virtual Game Store, where Trainers Zach and Ella welcome them. The game initially revolves around playing through two in-game Tutorials with a simplified Water-type Pokémon deck not unlike the BW Basic Blue Starter Theme deck before competing against computer-controlled Trainer characters from the Trainer Challenge. Players are provided three Starter Theme decks, each representing one of three Starter Pokémon types — Fire-type , Grass-type , and Water-type . The Trainer Challenge then sequentially presents players with computer-controlled opponents with a variety of different deck types as players advance through three in-game "Leagues". The full set of features in the Pokémon Trading Card Game Online is not unlocked until players have won a match against the first several Trainer Challenge Trainers. Once the full feature set is unlocked, the Trainer Challenge may be pursued at the player's owner pace or bypassed entirely.
in-game Tutorial
- Main article: Tutorial (TCGO)
After being welcomed to the Game Store, players face Zach and Ella in two in-game tutorial Pokémon Trading Card Game matches designed to teach players the basics of game play. After completing the tutorials, players are presented with a full match against a random computer-controlled Trainer from the Trainer Challenge. If players "Play as a Guest", they may repeat but will not advance beyond this stage. Players will, however, be encouraged to create a Pokémon Trainer Club "User Name" and "Password" after each match. Finally, with a Pokémon Trainer Club account, players are directed through the first few matches in the Trainer Challenge's Gold League.
- By-passing tutorials
- In order to help new players of all age levels learn the mechanics of the game and so as to not overwhelm them, all players are by default directed through the tutorials and initial matches before unlocking all game features. Players already familiar with the game may bypass this directed phase by disabling the "New User Experience" under in-game Options.
- Additional tutorials
- For those seeking additional tutorials outside of the Pokémon Trading Card Game Online itself, a brief description of How to play appears on the Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) page. The Appendix:Glossary also defines most TCG terminology and game mechanics. Players may also browse Bulbapedia related TCG articles at Category:Pokémon Trading Card Game. Bulbagarden additionally hosts forums to discuss the TCG at the Forum: Pokémon Trading Card Games. Finally, there are browser-based step-by-step TCG tutorials on Pokémon.com.
- Pokémon Trainer Club
- Players who create a Pokémon Trainer Club account also may use this account on the official Pokémon.com website and at Play! Pokémon events.
Rotation chart
Many in-game Pokémon Trading Card Game Online features rotate or change on a recurring basis:
Game Feature Rotation Daily login bonus to either Pokémon.com or the TCGO (12 Trainer Tokens) — inclusive of but independent from the TCGO Daily, 12:00 AM UTC Daily Match Bonus (10 Trainer Tokens) Daily, 12:00 AM UTC Daily Login Bonus reward system rotation Daily, 12:00 AM UTC Daily Challenge reward system rotation Daily, 9:00 AM UTC Weekly Tournament rotation Monday, 7:00 PM UTC Weekly Shop rotation Wednesday, 12:00 AM UTC Weekly Pokémon.com website ONLY 15 Trainer Token maximum per week — independent from the TCGO but relevant for Trainer Token acquisition purposes Saturday, 4:00 AM UTC
Play Modes
There are 4 different play modes available. These are Quick Match, Trainer Challenge, Versus Mode, and Tournament Mode.
Quick Match
This is a single player mode using a randomly selected Theme deck that players have unlocked. Players battle against another randomly selected player. The match does not count toward Player rank, earn Trainer Tokens, or a Bonus Wheel spin. This mode is currently only accessible through the initially Landing page. Players may re-access the Landing page by clicking on the Pokémon Trading Card Game Online logo in the upper center of most TCGO screens.
Trainer Challenge
In the Trainer Challenge, players face various computer-controlled Trainer characters using only Theme decks, including Online-exclusive Theme decks featuring Starter Pokémon Tepig and Fire-type Pokémon , Snivy and Grass-type Pokémon , and Oshawott and Water-type Pokémon from the Black & White Series (BW Basic Red, BW Basic Green, and BW Basic Blue), those unlocked by Redemption codes from code cards, and those purchased with Trainer Tokens or Gems from the in-game Shop. Code cards are obtained through purchase of physical Theme decks from the Black & White Series onward.
Zach | Ella | Game Store | Professor |
Ali | Brittney | Calvin | Cammie |
Daniel | Grayson | Juji | Kendall |
Logan | Mick | Nathan | Otis |
Penelope | Rika | Tyson |
Players battle in three leagues: Gold League, Platinum League, and City Championship. Players have the option of adjusting the match difficulty between: "Easy", "Medium", and "Hard" (see Earning stars). Changing the difficulty setting changes the composition of the opponent's deck. Players must defeat a given Trainer in a specific spot or position once before unlocking the next Trainer position. Players must also defeat a given league once before unlocking the next, starting with Gold League and ending with City Championship. Unlike more traditional Pokémon Trading Card Game Tournaments such as the multi-player Tournament Mode, defeat on the part of players in these Trainer Challenge leagues does not result in players changing their standing. In other words, players may pickup right where they left off rather than start all over again.
There are also 12 circles at the bottom of the "Select A Trainer" screen for a Trainer Challenge match, which correspond to each of the 12 Trainers in that league. By clicking on the corresponding circle, players may quickly select that Trainer in that specific spot or position. Some Trainers appear more than once in a league. Some do not appear at all. A padlocked circle means that the corresponding Trainer has not yet been unlocked. An open grey circle indicates that the Trainer has been unlocked but has not been beaten with any of the player's Theme decks. A dark green check mark over a grey circle means that the Trainer has not yet been defeated with the player selected Theme deck. A light green check mark indicates that the Trainer has already been defeated with the player selected Theme deck. Each Theme deck has its own set of dark green and light green check marks for each Trainer position in each league.
Unlocking decks
Players must defeat 7 Trainers with the same Starter Theme deck to fully unlock all the cards in that deck. Certain cards are replaced automatically with each Trainer beaten. Beating the same Trainer in a different position in a league or in a different leagues counts toward the 7 successes. Beating a Trainer in the same position in a league more than once does not count toward the 7 successes.
- NOTE: The 2 October 2013 update retired a feature that also gradually unlocked redeemable or purchased Theme decks over the course of 11 successful wins as described above. All redeemed or purchased Theme decks are now fully "unlocked" immediately upon redeeming or purchasing them in the in-game Shop.
Earning stars
Players also earn up to four stars for each of the 36 Trainer opponents in the Trainer Challenge. Whether players win or lose, points are calculated at the end of a match. These points are added to the current point total for that individual Trainer in that position in a given league. Based on that cumulative total, players earn the following four stars and game rewards:
- 1 Star (at 1,000 points) = 1 Trainer Token (per Trainer opponent)
- 2 Stars (at 5,000 points) = 3 Trainer Tokens (per Trainer opponent)
- 3 Stars (at 14,000 points) = 10 Trainer Tokens (per Trainer opponent)
- 4 Stars (at 30,000+ points) = 1 non-tradable, 10-card Booster pack from the current Standard format (per Trainer opponent)
- Additionally, players obtain 3 more non-tradable, 10-card Booster packs from the current Standard format format by earning 4 Stars with all 12 Trainers in a league for 9 more Booster packs.
These Trainer Tokens and 45 total Booster packs may only be obtained once per account.[1]
Scoring points in a Trainer Challenge match is based on various player performance criteria and on the difficulty level chosen, with a higher difficulty level earning more points per match:
- Easy = 1/2 the point bonus (x0.5)
- Medium = normal point bonus (x1)
- Hard = triple the point bonus (x3)
Versus Mode
Players are allowed to choose one of three Opponent types (Random Battle, Friend Battle, or Play Testing), one of four Play types or Deck formats (Theme, Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited) and a deck appropriate to the above.
Opponent types
Players choose from three Opponent types:
- Random Battle
- Formally an option under Ranked Battle. This feature allows players to play against another randomly selected online player. Players earn a single Trainer Token for each match played ("Expert Matchmaking Reward"), provided they have met minimum playtime requirements, plus 2 Trainer Tokens if they win a match versus a player who was ranked by TCGO as having an "Advantage" based on player/deck play history ("Game Advantage Upset Reward"). Additionally, players are give the chance to spin the Bonus Wheel, which provides an opportunity to receive Trainer Tokens, Tournament Tickets, or a Mystery Box reward. Trainer Tokens and the Bonus Wheel are provided to both players regardless of the outcome of the match.
- Friend Battle
- This mode allows players to play against another player who is on their Friends List. This mode does not count toward Player rank or earn Trainer Tokens and a Bonus Wheel spin.
- Play Testing
- This mode allows players to practice using their chosen deck against a random computer-controlled Trainer from the Trainer Challenge and does not count toward Player rank or earn Trainer Tokens and a Bonus Wheel spin.
Play types
Players select from four Play types, also known Game type or Deck format:
- Theme
- Only pre-constructed Theme decks are allowed in this play type. Apart from the Starter themed Online-exclusive Theme decks, Theme decks are obtained by either using Redemption codes or by purchase with Trainer Tokens or Gems in the in-game Shop.
- Standard
- Only decks composed entirely of cards from expansions or sets officially sanctioned for Play! Pokémon events for the Standard format are allowed in this play type. The list of allowed expansions is updated with a game patch shortly after as the official, annual Rotation is announced. Expansions are added to the Standard format as they are released (typically four a year), and the oldest legal expansions are rotated out of the Standard format on an annual basis. The Standard format was previously called the Modified format.
- Expanded
- Only decks composed entirely of cards from expansions or sets officially sanctioned for Play! Pokémon events for the Expanded format are allowed in this play type. This format was added in the 2014-2015 season to allow a greater number of expansions than the Standard format but not be as unpredictable in card combinations as the Unlimited format. The list of allowed expansions is updated with a game patch shortly after as the official, annual Rotation is announced. Expansions are added to the Expanded format as they are released.
- Unlimited
- Any deck composed of cards currently available in the game are allowed in this play type (including Expanded format decks, Standard format decks, and Theme decks). Currently, only HeartGold & SoulSilver, Black & White, and XY sets and their expansion are available in the game.
Tournament Mode
Entry into tournaments versus other players require either Tournament Tickets or Trainer Tokens. Players may use one of four Deck formats or Play types (Theme, Standard, Expanded, or Unlimited), though not all Deck formats are always available. Playing in tournaments with other players provide the opportunity to gain at least a single Trainer Token and a spin on the Bonus Wheel at the end of each match as well as the opportunity to earn Trainer Tokens, Tournament Tickets, Booster packs, and Tournament Chests based on player placement in a given tournament.
Each tournament is composed of three-round single elimination matches between 8 players. Upon selecting a Deck format with either a Tournament Ticket or Trainer Token entry requirement, players are placed into a queue until 8 players join. Once that queue is full, the tournament will begin and a new queue will be created. The maximum duration of a tournament is 1 hour and 18 minutes with up to 25 minutes minutes per match (12 and 1/2 minutes per player) and one minute between rounds.
Tournament rotation
Continuously running tournaments currently offer three Deck formats: two require a Tournament Ticket entry fee and one a Trainer Token entry fee. The exact Deck formats and entry fee costs rotate on a weekly basis on Mondays at 7:00 PM UTC (Coordinated Universal Time or Greenwich Mean Time).[2] On weekends, one of the two Tournament Ticket entry fee tournaments is increased to a 6 Tournament Tickets cost instead of 4 but also offers increased placement rewards.
- Week 1: Theme deck (49 Trainer Token entry fee), Standard (4 Tournament Ticket entry fee), and Unlimited (4 Tournament Ticket entry fee)
- Week 2: Theme deck (4 Tournament Ticket entry), Standard (49 TTrainer Token entry fee), and Extended (4 Tournament Ticket entry fee)
Tournament special events
The first non-trial Tournament special event officially premiered on 5 February 2015 as a weeklong tournament in which players battled in all four Deck formats for special themed rewards based on Team Magma and Team Aqua from the Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire video games. Other Tournament special events occur from time to time.
Tournament rewards
Entry costs and rewards vary widely for Tournament special events. Continuously running tournament entry costs and rewards are standardized:
Trainer Tokens Tournament Tickets Entry Cost: 49 Trainer Tokens
Rewards:
- 1st Place — Tournament Tickets x3
- 2nd Place — Tournament Tickets x2
- 3rd to 4th Place — Tournament Tickets x1
- 5th to 8th Place — Trainer Tokens x12
Entry Cost: 4 Tournament Tickets
Rewards:
- 1st Place — Current expansion Booster packs x2 and Random Booster packs x1
- 2nd Place — Current expansion Booster packs x1 and Random Booster packs x1
- 3rd to 4th Place — Random Booster packs x1
- 5th to 8th Place — Tournament Chests x1
Entry Cost: 6 Tournament Tickets (weekend)
Rewards:
- 1st Place — Current expansion Booster packs x2, Random Booster packs x2, and Tournament Chests x3
- 2nd Place — Current expansion Booster packs x2, Random Booster packs x1, and Tournament Chests x1
- 3rd to 4th Place — Random Booster packs x1 and Tournament Chests x1
- 5th to 8th Place — Tournament Chests x1 and Trainer Tokens x25
Currency
There are four currencies available in the Pokémon Trading Card Game Online. These are Trainer Tokens, Tournament Chests, Tournament Tickets, and Gems. Only Trainer Tokens, Tournament Chests, and Tournament Tickets are currently obtainable worldwide.
Trainer Tokens
- Main article: Trainer Token
Trainer Tokens may be used to redeem non-tradable, 5-card Booster packs (95 Trainer Tokens) from current expansions of the game and Non-exclusive Theme decks (500 Trainer Tokens) also from current expansions of the game, as well as Avatar and Gameplay items. They are obtained through various means, including Daily Challenges, Trainer Challenges, Random Battle matches in the Versus Mode and Tournament Mode, and the Bonus Wheel.
Trainer Tokens are also be obtained by playing various browser-based games or by earning Stamps and reading articles on Pokémon.com. They may also be spent on various items for a player's Pokémon.com Trainer Avatar. This is similar to but distinct from the Pokémon TCG Online Avatar within the game itself.
- NOTE: 5-card Booster packs are unique to the Pokémon Trading Card Game Online. They contain at least 3 Common (), 1 Uncommon (), and the chance for 1 Rare () cards from a given expansion. Most Booster packs typically contain 10 cards and have a higher percentage of common cards in them, including those received as rewards in the TCGO game and redeemed with Redemption codes in the in-game Shop.
Tournament Chests
Tournament Chests are earned at the end of Tournament Mode tournaments. The exact number of chests awarded, if any, depends on player placement in a tournament. Each Tournament Chest contains a random number of Trainer Tokens and a single tradable card of Uncommon Rarity or higher from a Standard format expansion.[3]
Tournament Tickets
- 9.99 USD for 10 Tournament Tickets
- 24.99 USD for 25 Tournament Tickets
- 49.99 USD for 50 Tournament Tickets
- 99.99 USD for 100 Tournament Tickets
Tournament Tickets are currently available as Daily Login Bonus rewards or by spinning the Bonus Wheel. They are used to gain access to tournaments in Tournament Mode by redeeming a certain amount of tickets needed to enter a given tournament.
Additionally, Tournament Tickets my be purchased by clicking on the Ticket icon in upper right of many screens such as Tournament Mode or the in-game Shop or by going directly to www.pokemontcg.com/us/purchase.
Gems
Gems are currently only available to adult players in Canada for testing and are purchased from the in-game Shop. Similar to Trainer Tokens, Gems may be used to purchase Booster packs, Non-exclusive Theme decks, Avatar items, and Gameplay items in the Shop or used as a currency for trading with other players.
- NOTE: A Gem is typically equal to 2 Trainer Tokens.
Daily Challenge
The Daily Challenge rewards players for playing the Trading Card Game Online on a daily basis. Players are presented with specific game related challenges starting at 9:00 AM UTC (Coordinated Universal Time or Greenwich Mean Time) each day.[4] Players may ONLY accept a single challenge during a single day. The challenge does not need to be completed before the end of a given day. However, players will not be offered a new challenge until they finish their current challenge or "Abandon" it, except as a new day's challenge may be worked on simultaneously as players advance in Player level. The first four challenges cannot be abandoned. If players complete their current challenge and a new day has already started, players will be offered that new day's challenge. If more than one day passes before players complete their current challenge, only the current new day's challenge will be presented. The challenge backlog or queue is never greater than one day at a time.
- NOTE: Players can only choose ONE CHALLENGE PER DAY. At higher Player levels, players have the opportunity to choice between two and eventually three options each day. However, they can only choose ONE of them. All additional challenges that players do not select are LOST. While players may choose another challenge on the following day and may also store up to two or three old challenges at higher Player levels, players can never pick up more than one new challenge each day.
As players successfully complete challenges, they earn Trainer Tokens and random Booster packs. Each Daily Challenge has an Pokémon type associated with it as well as an Experience Point (or XP) value, which are applied to that given Pokémon type. Each Pokémon type starts at Level 0 (zero) and increases to Level 3, unlocking special Pokémon type themed Coins (Level 1), Card sleeves (Level 2), and Deck boxes (Level 3). It takes a total of 5 XP for players to reach Level 1 in a given Pokémon type and then 5 more XP for Level 2. Pokémon type Level 3 requires 10 additional XP. If more XP is earned then required to reach the next level, it rolls over. However, at present, no XP will be applied after players reach Level 3 in a given Pokémon type. Active Challenges/Level Progress in the Player Profile will not read more than "20/20".
Earning a Pokémon type level also increases overall Player level by one. Players starts at Player level 0 (zero). Increasing Player level eventually allows players to save and pursue up to three Daily Challenges at one time.
- NOTE: "Player level" should not be confused with "Player rank", by which TCGO tracks player skill level when matching players for Random Battles matches and for indicating player "Advantage" in both Random Battle and Tournament matches
View/Abandon challenge
A popup window introduces the Daily Challenge to players following their logging into the game. Afterward, "Active Challenge" and "Level Progress" may be viewed in the center icon/tab under Player Profile. Selecting an active challenge will display a small trash can icon. Selecting the trash can icon allows players to "Abandon" that challenge. "Abandoning" a challenge will cause all progress to be lost.
- NOTE: The first four Daily Challenges may not be abandoned. Players must complete these first four challenges before additional, random challenges are presented.
By hovering over a given Pokémon type with the mouse pointer (or iPad equivalent), a small indicator will show players how much XP they have earned to date for the next Pokémon type level and how much total XP is needed to reach that level. Players must hover over the progress bar itself on a Daily Challenge in order for a similar indicator to appear detailing challenge progress.
Challenge list
The very first four challenges are presented in order and cannot be abandoned or bypassed. After these first four challenges are completed and continuing through Player level 5, challenges are selected randomly from a set of three challenge types based on four Pokémon types (Fire , Grass , Psychic , and Water ). These initial Pokémon types correspond to the Pokémon found in the three Starter Theme decks and the Mental Might Theme deck. Players may use these four Theme decks or any other deck that qualifies for the challenge criteria. Player level 6 challenges represent a blending of the initial set of random challenges and the second set of random challenges. The second set of random challenges are based on all Pokémon types (except for Colorless ) and becomes the default set at Player level 7. Random challenges haves a Rarity frequency that defines how often players should expect to be presented with a particular type of challenge: Common (), Uncommon (), and Rare (). The less common the challenge, the better the rewards. Booster packs awarded with the completion of Rare () challenges may be either 5-card or 10-card Booster packs, with 10-card Booster packs becoming more typical as players increase their Player level. Challenges known to be presented so far include:
First Four Challenges: Game mode: Reward: XP: Sequence: - Win a match with a Theme Deck that contains Water Pokémon.
Any 25 Trainer Tokens 2 Challenge #1 - Win a match with a Theme Deck that contains Fire Pokémon.
Any 25 Trainer Tokens 2 Challenge #2 - Win a match with a Theme Deck that contains Grass Pokémon.
Any 25 Trainer Tokens 2 Challenge #3 Random Battle 5-card Booster pack 2 Challenge #4 Challenges appearing randomly during Player levels 0 to 5 with the following rarity frequency: Game mode: Reward: XP: Rarity: - Do damage to 20 opposing Pokémon with <Type> Pokémon.
- — Where the Pokémon Type is randomly selected from Fire , Grass , & Water .
Any 25 Trainer Tokens 1
<Type>Common Random Battle 25 Trainer Tokens 1 Common - Put 7 <Type> Evolution cards into play.
- — Where the Pokémon Type is randomly selected from Fire , Grass , & Water .
Any 50 Trainer Tokens 2
<Type>Uncommon Random Battle 50 Trainer Tokens 2 Uncommon - — Where the Pokémon Type is randomly selected from Fire , Grass , & Water .
Any 5 or 10-card Booster pack 3
<Type>Rare Random Battle 5 or 10-card Booster pack 3 Rare Player level 6 challenges are a mixture of the above and below sets. Challenges appearing randomly during Player levels 7 to 15 with the following rarity frequency: Game mode: Reward: XP: Rarity: Random Battle 30 Trainer Tokens 1
<Type>Common - Put 8 <Type> Evolution cards into play.
Random Battle 55 Trainer Tokens 2
<Type>Uncommon Random Battle 5 or 10-card Booster pack 3
<Type>Rare Challenges appearing randomly during Player levels 16 and above with the following rarity frequency: Game mode: Reward: XP: Rarity: Random Battle 35 Trainer Tokens 1
<Type>Common - Put 10 <Type> Evolution cards into play.
Random Battle 60 Trainer Tokens 2
<Type>Uncommon Random Battle 5 or 10-card Booster pack 3
<Type>Rare Challenges temporarily removed with the 2 June 2015 update: Game mode: Reward: XP: Rarity: - Leave 20 opposing Pokémon Asleep
- — The conditions may be applied by any card.
Random Battle 5 or 10-card Booster pack 3 Rare - Leave 24 opposing Pokémon Burned.
- — The conditions may be applied by any card.
Random Battle 5 or 10-card Booster pack 3 Rare - Leave 24 opposing Pokémon Confused.
- — The conditions may be applied by any card.
Random Battle 5 or 10-card Booster pack 3 Rare - Leave 20 opposing Pokémon Paralyzed.
- — The conditions may be applied by any card.
Random Battle 5 or 10-card Booster pack 3 ... Rare - Leave 20 opposing Pokémon Poisoned.
- — The conditions may be applied by any card.
Random Battle 5 or 10-card Booster pack 3 Rare
Daily Login Bonus
The Daily Login Bonus provides a reward for playing Pokémon Trading Card Game Online on a daily basis simply by logging into the game. It consists of an initial track designed to help new players get started in the game, and a track that provides recurring rewards to existing players. Each reward unlocks the first time players login each day starting at 12:00 AM UTC (Coordinated Universal Time or Greenwich Mean Time). This reward system does not require players to login on consecutive days to maintain progress on the track. Once players complete the introductory New Player track, they are migrated to the recurring Existing Player track. There is no limit to the number of times players may complete the Existing Player track, as they are cycled back to the beginning of the track after receiving the bonus reward for the fifth day.
- New Player Track
- Day 1 - 1 Online-exclusive Theme deck (currently Mental Might)
- Day 2 - 25 Trainer Tokens
- Day 3 - 5 non-tradable, 10-card Booster pack (randomly selected from Standard format expansions)
- Existing Player Track
- Day 1 - 5 Trainer Tokens (Prior to the 2 June 2015 update, Day 1 awarded 15 Trainer Tokens.)
- Day 2 - 10 Trainer Tokens (Prior to the 2 June 2015 update, Day 2 awarded 15 Trainer Tokens.)
- Day 3 - 15 Trainer Tokens (Prior to the 2 June 2015 update, Day 3 awarded 1 Tournament Ticket. Prior to the 3 April 2014 update, Day 3 awarded 15 Trainer Tokens.)
- Day 4 - 1 Tournament Ticket (Prior to the 2 June 2015 update, Day 4 awarded 15 Trainer Tokens.)
- Day 5 - 1 non-tradable, 10-card Booster pack (randomly selected from Standard format expansions)
This reward system was briefly retired with the 25 March 2015 update in favor of the new Daily Challenge reward system but was reintroduced on 2 June 2015 to allow players who are not interested in pursuing Daily Challenges to continue earning daily rewards.
- NOTE: There is a separate Daily login bonus that may be received by logging into either Pokémon.com or TCGO each day starting at 12:00 AM UTC (Coordinated Universal Time or Greenwich Mean Time), which earn players/website users 12 Trainer Tokens. This Daily Login bonus to independent of the TCGO reward system.
Daily Match Bonus
The Daily Match Bonus or "Daily PvP Game Reward" awards 10 Trainer Tokens for completing the first Random Battle match each day (12:00 AM UTC, Coordinated Universal Time or Greenwich Mean Time), regardless of whether players win or lose and in addition to any other rewards. All player versus player match play time minimums apply.
Special Challenges
Special Challenges are like Daily Challenges except they are more complicated and therefore take more time to complete. They also offer greater rewards. They are viewed or abandoned just like Daily Challenges. Known Special Challenges include:
Special Challenge: Game mode: Time Limit: Reward: XP: Rarity: - Put 135 Basic Pokémon into play.
Random Battle 5 days 10-card Booster pack x2 from the current expansion n/a Common - Put 90 Evolution cards into play.
Random Battle 5 days 10-card Booster pack x2 from the current expansion 3 Common Random Battle 5 days 10-card Booster pack x2 from the current expansion n/a Common
Theme decks
- Main article: Theme Deck (TCG)
Currently, new players have access to five Online-exclusive Theme decks unique to the Pokémon Trading Card Game Online. These Theme deck are composed of cards from various Black & White and XY expansions of the Pokémon Trading Card Game. Many Non-exclusive Theme decks are also available.
Online-exclusive Theme decks
- Main article: Online-exclusive Theme decks
- BW Basic Red, BW Basic Green, and BW Basic Blue are the current Starter Pokémon Theme decks. They are slowly unlocked for use in all play modes by beating seven different computer-controlled Trainers in the Trainer Challenge with each deck. This automatically replaces certain cards per Trainer beaten.
- Mental Might is given as the first Daily Login Bonus and is NOT playable in the Trainer Challenge.
- Rallying Cry is unlocked by entering non-exclusive Redemption codes (e.g. "plasmablast") in the in-game Shop. It is NOT playable in the Trainer Challenge.
Rotated Online-exclusive Theme decks
- Main article: Rotated Online-exclusive Theme decks
- Four original Starter Pokémon Theme decks — Basic Red, Basic Yellow, Basic Green and Basic Blue — were available to players prior to the 18 April 2013 update. These decks are composed of cards from the HeartGold & SoulSilver Series expansions. Players with accounts created prior to this update may access these rotated Starter Theme decks as well as the current Black & White series Starter Theme decks in all play modes.
- Basic Orange was formally unlocked as the first Daily Login Bonus prior to the 13 August 2014 update. It can no longer be unlocked. It is still accessible to players who have already obtained it. It is NOT playable in the Trainer Challenge.
- Power Relay was formally unlocked by entering a special Redemption code (e.g. "plasmablast") in the in-game Shop prior to the 2 October 2013 update. It can no longer be redeemed. It is NOT playable in the Trainer Challenge.
Non-exclusive Theme decks
- Main article: Non-exclusive redeemable decks
These Theme decks correspond to the physical decks in the Black & White Series expansion onward and be may unlocked in Pokémon Trading Card Game Online by redeeming the deck-access Redemption codes included in the Theme deck box. Only one Theme deck of the same kind per account can be unlocked regardless of the number of codes. Alternatively, newer Theme decks may also be purchased with Trainer Tokens or Gems in the in-game Shop. There is no limit to the number of in-game Shop copies of a Theme deck that may be purchased.
Players obtain a single Trainer Token for beating each of the 36 Trainers in the Trainer Challenge once per Theme deck. Additionally, players also obtain a non-tradable, 10-card Booster pack from the current Standard format by beating 12 Trainers once per Theme deck. These Trainer Tokens and Booster packs can only be obtained once per account.
Other Features
Bonus Wheel
The Bonus Wheel provides an opportunity to receive special bonus rewards such as Trainer Tokens, Tournament Tickets, or a Mystery Box. Spins on the Bonus Wheel are earned through participation in a Random Battle in Versus Mode or a tournament match in Tournament Mode against another player.
There are two Bonus Wheels: a Victor’s Bonus Wheel and a Basic Bonus Wheel. The Victor’s Bonus Wheel includes greater Trainer Token amounts, an opportunity to receive Tournament Tickets, and a high value Mystery Box.
- Victor's Bonus Wheel: 5 Trainer Tokens x3, 10 Trainer Tokens x2, 15 Trainer Tokens x1, 25 Trainer Tokens x1, 1 Tournament Tickets x2, and a Mystery Box x1
- Basic Bonus Wheel: 1 Trainer Tokens x4, 3 Trainer Tokens x3, 5 Trainer Tokens x2, and a Mystery Box x1
- NOTE: The original, now retired, single Bonus wheel contained 1 to 5 Trainer Tokens, 1 Tournament Ticket, and a Mystery Box.
Collection viewer
This section shows cards, unopened booster packs and Non-exclusive Theme decks, and Avatar and Gameplay items in a player's collection as well as items players tag "For Trade", "Wanted", or "For Review".
Trade Locked cards
Most cards available in the TCGO are "Trade Locked", meaning that they may not be Traded with other players. This limitation is designed to discourage "card farming" — players creating extra accounts solely to expand their card collection through card trading (including trades with the player's primary account). Only cards redeemed with Redemption codes found with the purchase of physical Non-exclusive Theme decks, Booster packs, and similar collections, gained through Booster packs earned in Tournament Mode, and Booster packs and individual cards earned through the Victor's Bonus Wheel are "Tradable". Two symbols at the bottom of each card in the Collection viewer represent how many Tradable or Trade Locked cards players have in their collection. The left number with a blue background represents tradable cards, while the right number next to the padlock symbol with the grey background represents Trade Locked cards.
Deck Manager
This allows the players to view, clone, edit or create decks using obtained cards and items. Decks may be created in either the Standard, Expanded or Unlimited format Play types. Selecting a Standard format or Expanded format filters out cards not sanctioned for official Pokémon Trading Card Game events. After selecting a set of 60 cards, a Deck box, Coin, and Card sleeve Gameplay item may also be selected. While the TCGO presents an option to select a Playmat, only the default Playmat is available at this time. These Gameplay items may be obtained by Redemption codes from code cards or event codes in the in-game Shop or purchased with Trainer Tokens or Gems.
The Full Game menu is located in the upper righthand corner of most screens and is represented by the orange icon with a white leftward pointing triangle and three lines. When it is selected, it opens a side bar that slides out from the right side of the screen. The top of most screens contain icons representing shortcuts to only a few primary game features: Trainer Challenge, Versus Mode, Tournament Mode, in-game Shop, Landing page, and Help menu. When the Full Game menu is open, it provides access to all game features except for Quick Match, which is only found on the Landing page, and the Social menu.
- Game features available at the top of the slide out bar represented by four grey, small, square like icons from left to right: Player Profile, Help menu, in-game Options, and "Exit the Game".
- Game features available down the right side of the slide out bar represented by large, rectangle like icons from top to bottom: Trainer Challenge, Versus Mode, Tournament Mode, in-game Shop, Deck Manager, Collection viewer, and in-game Trade.
Game notifications
Game notices are posted via two methods: 1.) the Game Information section at the bottom of the TCGO log-in screen, and 2.) Pop-up Windows that appear shortly after logging into the game. Notices include Daily Challenge announcements as well as announcements concerning future Tournament special events, server maintenance that will make the Pokémon Trading Card Game Online unplayable for a few hours, information about a recent program upgrade or patch, etc.
Gameplay items
Gameplay items include Card sleeves, Coins, and Deck boxes. There is no unique advantage to selecting any one Gameplay item over another. It is solely a matter of player preferences about how certain game elements look. Gameplay items may be purchased from time to time in the in-game Shop, made available along with the purchase of Theme decks directly from the in-game Shop or through Redemption codes provided with the purchase of physical Theme decks and other select card collections, or may be Traded for with other players.
- NOTE: Playmates are not currently available in the TCGO, although an option to select one in the Deck Manager indicates that they may become available in the future.
- Coins
- Main article: Coin (TCG)
- Coins are Gameplay items that are used in-game when a move, status effect, or ability requires a coin flip. Different coins have no special effects; their only difference is their appearance. Players start out with the Red Arceus coin. At one time, the Blue Energy coin was given to players by completing certain in-game achievements (currently unavailable to newer players). Additional coins are made available when players redeem a purchased Non-exclusive Theme deck's Redemption code or event code in the in-game Shop or when players purchase a Non-exclusive Theme deck through Trainer Tokens or Gems.
The Help menu is represented by an icon with a white question mark ("?") inside it. The icon is found at the top of most screens and the top of the Full Game menu. It provides links to web-browser based "Support", "Pokémon Rules", and "Pokémon Tutorials" (online Professor (TCGO)). The final "Legal" entry provides access to the in-game "End User License Agreement" and "Privacy Policy".
Landing page
The Landing page is what players see immediately upon logging into the game. Its layout of game features is different from the rest of the game. All game features may be accessed on the Landing page except for the Social menu. The Quick Match play mode is only accessible on the Landing page. Players may re-access the Landing page by clicking on the Pokémon Trading Card Game Online logo in the upper center of most TCGO screens.
Miscellaneous
- Card Detail View
- For the Windows PC client, detail about a given card is available to the player by right clicking on the card. During matches, a much larger image of the card is displayed. When opening a new Booster pack or Theme deck or when using the Deck Manager and in-game Trade, players are presented with a card interface similar to the Collection viewer, which displays how many total copies of that card the player already has in their collection and what number of these cards are tradeable or locked. Players can also mark the cards "For Trade", "Wanted", and "For Review". When opening Booster packs and Theme decks, this is often the only way to see this additional card information.
- Full Screen/Window Display
- For the Windows PC client, players may switch between a full screen display and a window display by using the following keyboard key combination: hold down the Alt key and then press the Enter key. For the Mac client, hold down the Command key then press the Enter key. Display issues may arise when not playing the TCGO inside a full screen.
- Match Inactivity
- Players must remain actively engaged in matches with other online players in Versus Mode or Tournament Mode. Discussions in the Social menu's "Game Chat" do not count toward player activity. Players should be considerate of the time invested not only by themselves but also their opponents. If the TCGO determines that players are inactive too long, it will display a 15 second warning. Ignoring the warning causes players to lose matches. This activity mechanism is designed to help insure players do not take advantage of another player.
- Minimum Playtime Requirement
- During Versus Mode Random Battle and Tournament Mode matches against other online players, Trainer Token and Bonus Wheel rewards are earned if matches lasts at least 2 minutes (5 minutes prior to the 3 April 2014 update).[5] This minimum amount of time was increased with the 22 December 2014 update for players forfeiting matches early (actively leaving a match, remaining inactive for an extended period of time, or not taking at least one Prize card) back to 5 minutes while guaranteeing rewards for players whose opponent forfeits matches regardless of the amount of time that passed.[6] This change was designed to discourage players for only playing long enough to earn Trainer Token and Bonus Wheel rewards.
- Loss of Internet Connection
- During online player versus player matches in Versus Mode or Tournament Mode, if players lose their Internet connection, they have 5 minutes to log back into the game before their opponents are declared the winner. When the Internet connection is lost by an opponent, players are notified with a pop-up message.
Mystery Box
Mystery Box rewards are earned on Bonus Wheel spins. Rewards include both static rewards (25 Trainer Token, 4 Tournament Tickets, a 5-card Booster pack from the current Standard format expansion or randomly selected from current Standard format expansions) or items that are updated weekly such as a single expansion or promo card or a Gameplay item such as Coin or Card sleeve. The 4 February 2015 update increased the rewards in a Victor’s Mystery Box to include 50 Trainer Tokens, a larger Tournament Ticket amount, tradable single cards, and tradable 10-card Booster packs.
in-game Options
Accessible on the Landing page or via the Full Game menu, the orange icon in the upper righthand corner of most screens. This feature allows players to change various game settings such as Game Play, Video, and Audio. Multiple players using the same Pokémon Trading Card Game Online program have individual/per-account settings.
- NOTE: Turning off Tool Tip Hints may negatively affect game play by making certain in-game information inaccessible, such as how many cards are left in the player's or an opponent's deck.
Pokémon Trainer Club
- Main article: Pokémon Trainer Club
Some game settings are inaccessible in the TCGO game itself and can only be found in the Pokémon Trainer Club by signing into Pokémon.com and viewing a player Profile. Adult players may adjust all available settings by selecting "Pokémon TCG Online Settings" under the adult player's Profile.
Child accounts
- Main article: Pokémon.com, User profile
While TCGO strives to be child friendly, parents may further restrict access to certain in-game features by signing into the parent's account on Pokémon.com, selecting the child's account under the parent account, and selecting Pokémon TCG Online Settings. Parents should be certain to select "Pokémon TCG Online Settings" under the child's account, not the parent's account. Parents may then restrict some in-game features such as Friend Chat, Game Chat, Shopping, and Trading.
- NOTE: Some in-game features are inaccessible in child accounts, such as Public Chat and Private Messaging, while other in-game features are restricted by limiting available options. Adult accounts do not have such restrictions.
Player level
"Player level" strictly corresponds to player progress in the Daily Challenge reward system. It should not be confused with "Player rank", which is related to player versus player Random Battles or Tournament matches. Successful completion of challenges earns players Experience Points (or XP) that are applied to a specific Energy type related to a given challenge. Players eventually earn levels (Levels 0 to 3) for each Energy type. Earning Energy type levels increases overall Player level. Every players starts at Player level 0 (zero). Higher Player level grants greater flexibility in completing Daily Challenges.
Player level Available Challenges Total Active Challenges NOTES 0 to 2 1 1 Players receive one Daily Challenge option per day and may pursue one Daily Challenge at a time. 3 to 4 2 1 Players choose one of two Daily Challenges per day and may pursue one Daily Challenge at a time. 5 to 7 2 2 Players choose one of two Daily Challenges per day and may pursue up to two Daily Challenges at a time. 8 to 9 3 2 Players choose one of three Daily Challenges per day and may pursue up to two Daily Challenges at a time. 10 or more 3 3 Players choose one of three Daily Challenges per day and may pursue up to three Daily Challenges at a time.
Player rank
Little is known about the specific mechanics of the TCGO's "Player rank" system or exactly when and why players are identified to have an "Advantage" in a Random Battle or Tournament match. The ranking system appears to be based on specific player deck history instead of overall player history. Based on the ranking system, players with an "Advantage" are not always identified during a match. However, if TCGO does and the player without the "Advantage" wins the match, the winning player earns 2 Trainer Tokens. The ranking system is also used to help match players of similar experience during player versus player Random Battle matches. The Player rank system is more effective matching players during high player active and less effective when fewer players are looking to play a Random Battle against other online player. "Player rank" should not be confused with "Player level", which is related to the Daily Challenge reward system.
Player Profile
Accessible on the Landing page or via the Full Game menu in the upper righthand corner of most screens (orange icon that looks like a leftward pointing triangle and three lines). The Profile is found in the top left of the Full Game menu's open side bar and is represented by a icon with the white silhouette of a person's shoulders and head. The Profile includes Statistics, Daily Challenge information, and Avatar Creator.
Statistics
The Statistics icon (right most of three icon near the upper righthand corner of the Player Profile screen with three dots followed by three short lines) allows players to view their cumulative "Game Stats" and "Collection Stats" on one of two tabs. Before being retired, information about the Achievements reward system was also located here
Game Stats: Collection Stats: - Percent Complete — percentage of cards obtained out of all cards available in the game
- Different Cards Owned — number of different cards in a player's collection
- Total Cards Owned — total number of cards in a player's collection
- Set Nearest to Completion — expansion or set with the highest percentage of total cards are in a player's collection
- Complete Sets — enumeration of expansion or sets of which all cards are in a player's collection
- Most of One Card
- Foil Cards Owned — number of holofoil and reverse-holofoil rare cards
Active Challenges/Level Progress
This is the default screen that opens when players select their Player Profile, represented as the middle of three icon near the upper righthand corner of the Profile screen — looks like an upward pointing arrow). All active Daily Challenges are shown here after they are first presented to players in a popup window. Additionally, player progress toward achieving specific Energy type level and rewards and overall Player level are viewable here.
Avatar Creator
Selecting the Avatar Creator icon (left most of three icon near the upper righthand corner of the Player Profile screen — looks like a short sleeve t-shirt) allows players to customize their online Avatars' in-game picture.. Players may select from several skin and hair colors, hair styles, facial features, and clothes (also known as "Avatar items"). Players may unlock various Avatar items (clothes) by purchasing them with Trainer Tokens or Gems in the in-game Shop, redeeming codes in the Shop, or by Trading with other players. Trainer Tokens may also be used to unlock clothing items on Pokémon.com by going to Customize Trainer. Avatar and/or Trainer clothing items available for purchase in one, are not always available for purchase in the other. Items added in one are not always available in the other. Like Pokémon cards, Avatar items cannot always be traded. Items purchased on Pokémon.com typically cannot be traded.
The Avatar Creator in the TCGO adopts changes made by players on Pokémon.com to their Customize Trainer the next time that players logs back in to the TCGO, and visa versa.
Redemption codes
Redemption codes are unique codes that allow players to unlock Theme decks, Booster packs and more. They are only found on specially marked packs and decks. "Contains 1 code card" is found on the back of Booster packs which contain a Redemption code card. Only Theme decks that are clearly marked "Play This Deck Online" will contain Redemption codes. These unique Redemption codes can only be used once.
However, there are generic Redemption codes which may be used by all Pokémon TGCO players. The following are confirmed codes which unlock Theme decks, Booster packs, and Avatar items (all of which are non-tradable):
- PlasmaFreeze - Rallying Cry deck
- PlasmaBlast - Rallying Cry deck
- PlasmaStorm - Rallying Cry deck
- BoundariesCrossed - Rallying Cry deck
- LegendaryTreasures - Rallying Cry deck
- Flashfire - Rallying Cry deck
- FuriousFists - Rallying Cry deck
- PhantomForces - Rallying Cry deck
- DragonsExalted - Pokémon-EX Hat (Avatar Item)
- DarkExplorers - Pokémon-EX Hat (Avatar Item)
- NextDestinies - Pokémon-EX Hat (Avatar Item)
- PokemonTCG - Black Cap (Avatar Item)
in-game Shop
The in-game Shop feature allows players to purchase Non-exclusive Theme decks, 5-card Booster packs, Gameplay items (Card sleeves, Coins, Deck boxes, etc.), and Avatar items with either Trainer Tokens or Gems. Redeeming Redemption codes, found with the physical purchase of the above items, is also done through this in-game Shop. Finally, the Shop allows adult players to purchase Gems and Tournament Tickets with real currency. A Gem is typically equal to 2 Trainer Tokens.
Shop items
- Non-exclusive Theme decks cost 500 Trainer Tokens.
- 5-card Booster packs cost 95 Trainer Tokens.
- Limited available Card sleeves cost 275 Trainer Tokens.
- Limited available Deck boxes cost 150 Trainer Tokens.
- Avatar items availability are limited and Trainer Tokens cost varies. A wide variety of Avatar items are available at Pokémon.com, and new Avatar items are more routinely release at the Pokémon.com website than in the Pokémon Trading Card Game Online in-game store.
- Weekly special rotated items vary widely but often include themed Bundles[7] or Blister packs with a cost range of 200 to 900 Trainer Tokens that typically include some combination of Booster pack(s), Promotional card(s), and game Coin.
Shop rotation
Starting on 13 March 2015, the predictability of item availability was streamlined and standardized.[8] A weekly special rotation was established, which occurs at midnight Wednesday UTC (Coordinated Universal Time or Greenwich Mean Time), when a new Weekly special is offered and the former Weekly special is removed. The rotation should see a specific item's eventual return in the rotation cycle. Quarterly, new Non-exclusive Theme decks and Booster packs are introduced following the release of a new Pokémon Trading Card Game expansion. Annually, older Non-exclusive Theme decks and sometimes Booster packs are removed following the start of a new format Rotation usually after the Trading Card Game World Championships in August of each year. Finally, there are occasional, exclusive items made available for time to time that may only remain available for a less defined, limited period.
The Social menu, represented by the orange icon with three white head and shoulder silhouettes and a right pointing triangle, is found in the upper lefthand corner of most screens. When it is selected, it opens a side bar that slides out from the left side of the screen. When open, this Social menu side bar allows players to search for online "Friends", participate in "Public Chats", and review most recent in-game notification "Messages". This feature is inaccessible from the Landing page.
Blocking players
Players may choose to Block other players from interacting with them for any reason within the TCGO, including features such as "Chat" and Versus Mode Random Battles. This "Block and Ignore Player" feature is found in the Social menu's "Freind" and "Chat" sections by selecting the head silhouette icon next a player's name and then selecting the "Block and Ignore Player" option.
in-game Trade
This feature allows players to view and create public and private trade offers in-game. Players may trade one or several items, cards, and packs in each transaction. Items, cards, and packs obtained from Daily Challenges, the Trainer Challenges, redeeming the multiple-use Redemption codes or with Trainer Tokens are not available for trade with other players (appeared as "Trade Locked") to prevent players from accumulating these items by creating multiple accounts.
The following are features still unavailable worldwide:
- Gems (Canada only)
- Leaderboards
- Account History
Retired game features
The Pokémon Trading Card Game Online has been in continual development since its initial inception. Often updates involve the addition of new rules and card as new expansion sets are released, the resolution of program errors, player interface changes improving usability, and the addition or re-addition of new game features. Occasionally, updates to the game involve the removal of previously existing game features.
Achievements | ||||||
This reward feature was another feature retired on 25 March 2015,[9] though it had not been actively updated for some time prior to its retirement. Players earned Achievements for completing various tasks. These Achievements had no special effect on the game. TCGO has announced the intention to reward players who completed a significant number of Achievements before it was retired with special Card sleeve(s) to commemorate given Achievements. Specific details are not yet known.
|
Booster Credits |
This former in-game Currency was originally used with Redemption code cards found in physical Booster packs. Booster Credits could be redeemed for Booster packs of the player’s choice in the Pokémon Trading Card Game Online from HeartGold & SoulSilver through Boundaries Crossed expansions. This Redemption code card method ended with the release of the Plasma Storm expansion when codes from a specific expansion Booster pack became redeemable for a virtual version of that specific Booster pack.[10] The Booster Credit system officially ended on 1 July 2013.[11] From July 2013 to December 2013, players with Booster Credits redeemed before July 2013 could redeem these credits for any pack from Next Destinies to Boundaries Crossed expansions. Players who still had Booster Credits after the 07 February 2014 update automatically had any remained credits redeemed for Boundaries Crossed Booster packs. |
Diamond League |
A higher difficulty, fourth Diamond League existed in the Trainer Challenge prior to the 07 February 2014 update. |
Practice Battle |
Practice Battle was originally an Opponent types in Versus Mode found under Ranked Battle. This mode allowed players to practice using their chosen deck against another randomly selected player. These matches did not count toward player Player rank or earn Trainer Tokens or Bonus Wheel spins. The Practice Battle option was retired on 25 March 2015. |
Professor Tutorials |
The original dedicated set of tutorials taught by the Professor in the original browser-based release of the Pokémon Trading Card Game Online were never transferred to the downloadable version of the game, though a new set of in-game Tutorials has since been added to the beginning of the game for first time players. The original tutorials continue to exist as a stand-alone browser-based program found on the Trading Card Game section of the Pokémon.com website. |
Ranked Battle |
The Ranked Battle option was folded directly into "Random Battle" in Versus Mode with the 25 March 2015 update after the removal of Practice Battle option rather than "Random Battle" being one of two options under "Ranked Battle". |
Tournament Keys |
Early expectation for the Tournament Mode envisioned Tournament Keys as the in-game Currency used to access special Tournament events. Tournament Keys were never implemented in open beta testing, which instead utilized Tournament Tickets.[12] |
History
The Pokémon Trading Card Game Online was originally released on 24 March 2011[13] as a browser-based game. The game was subsequently redesigned as a downloadable game utilizing the Unity (game engine)[14] and relauched on 15 May 2012 for PC,[15] on 5 November 2012 for Mac,[16][17] and on 30 September 2014 for iPad.[18] The original browser-based version continued to function until 8 August 2012.[19] Development continues on the downloadable version even after it officially emerged from open beta testing in February 2015.[20] Additionally, some early features have also been retired or removed from the game.
The reprogramming and relaunch of the Pokémon Trading Card Game Online[21] initially required the removal all game features except for the Trainer Challenge[22] and the now retired Achievements reward system.[23][24] Other features were gradually readded or added over time:
- Avatar Creator — While rudimentary Avatar options (4 male and 4 female) were reintroduced on 12 June 2012,[25] true functionality was not reintroduced until the 29 June 2013 update.[26]
- Collection viewer, Deck Manager, Social menu, and Player Profile — Reintroduced on 21 August 2012.[27]
- Versus Mode — Also reintroduced on 21 August 2012 and Deck formats introduced on 12 December 2012.[28]
- in-game Shop — Also reintroducted on 21 August 2012 (initially allowing for just Code Redemption and Booster pack purchases through the now retired Booster Credit system)[29] with the current Gems system added on 19 Apr 2013[30][31] and the Trainer Token system on 25 July 2013.[32]
- in-game Trade interface — Reintroduced with the 24 October 2012 update.[33]
- Daily Login Bonus and Daily Match Bonus reward systems — Introduced on 16 January 2013 as two parallel reward systems.[34] Both were temporarily retired on 25 March 2015 in favor of the new Daily Challenge reward system, but the Daily Match Bonus was subsequently reintroduced on 23 April 2015[35] and the Daily Login Bonus on 2 June 2015.[36]
- Booster pack, Exclusive TCGO 5-card — Introduced with the 25 July 2013 update.[37]
- Player rank — "Advantage" notification feature added on 2 October 2013.[38]
- "Play as a Guest" option — Introduced in October 2013.[39]
- Player Interface overhaul — Substantial changes to the game interface began in mid-2013[40][41][42] and continued to early-2014,[43][44][45] which allowed for the introduction of the touchscreen based iPad client in September 2014.[46]
- Tournament Mode — Introduced for testing with the 27 March 2014 update[47][48][49][50] with occasional trial Tournament special events until it officially premiered on 5 February 2015[51] and continuously running tournaments on 24 February 2015.[52]
- Bonus Wheel and Mystery Box — Added with the 24 June 2014 update,[53][54] while the 4 February 2015 update split the Bonus Wheel into a Victor's and a Loser's Bonus Wheel.[55]
- in-game Tutorials — Two match based in-game Tutorials added on 14 August 2014.[56]
- Pokémon Trainer Club — Added ability for players to register for a Pokémon Trainer Club account from within the game on 3 September 2014.[57]
- Daily Challenge — Implemented on 25 March 2015 replacing the briefly retired Daily Login Bonus and Daily Match Bonus and retired Achievements reward systems.[58] The 2 June 2015 update reduced the requirements for Evolution challenges by 1/2 and Knock Out challenges by 10, replaced challenges with a "Play Basic Pokémon" completion requirement to a "Do damage to opposing Pokémon" requirement, and temporarily removed all challenges with Special Condition completion requirements.
- Special Challenges and Tournament Chests — Implemented with the 6 May 2015 update.[59]
External links
- Pokémon Trading Card Game Online
- Download Pokémon Trading Card Game Online
- Pokémon Trading Card Game Online official forums
- Step-by-step Web Browser TCG Tutorials
References
- ↑ New Trainer Challenge scoring system — 23 April 2013
- ↑ Tournament Rotation Refined — 31 March 2015
- ↑ Tournament Chests/Special Challenges — 6 May 2015
- ↑ Daily Challenge Details — Clocks, Levels and More - 03 April 2015
- ↑ Minimum PvP match time/Daily Login Bonus, 2.18.1.402 Hotfix Notes | April 3, 2014
- ↑ PvP match forfeiting, 2.25.0.1042 Patch Notes | December 17, 2014
- ↑ Booster pack bundle, XY 4 Booster Pack Bundle with Krookodile-EX — 01 April 2015
- ↑ Shop rotation, Development Update: Tournaments, Shop and Next Game Update — 13 March 2015
- ↑ Feature Retirement, 2.27 Patch Notes | March 25, 2015
- ↑ Booster Credit, 1.0.94 Patch Notes | February 6, 2013
- ↑ Booster Credit Sunsetting—Phase II — 31 May 2013
- ↑ Tournament Keys, 2013 March Community Update — 28 March 2013
- ↑ Web-based, Pokémon Trading Card Game Online announcements — 25 February 2011 and 23 March 2011
- ↑ Unity Game Engine, 2012 April Community Update — 27 April 2012,
- ↑ TCGO Beta Release for PC, Build Notes — 15 May 2012
- ↑ TCGO Beta Release for Mac, 2012 October Community Update — 27 October 2012
- ↑ TCGO Beta Release for Mac, 2012 Patch notes for 11/16 — 17 November 2012
- ↑ TCGO Release, The Pokémon TCG Online Comes to iPad! — 30 September 2014
- ↑ Web-based Pokemon TCG Online now offline — 8 August 2012
- ↑ End of Open Beta, September 2014 Community Update — 25 September 2014
- ↑ Relaunch, 2012 March Community Update — 30 March 2012
- ↑ Initial features, New Trainer Challenge build heads up — 11 May 2012
- ↑ Achievements, Build Notes | May 15th, 2012
- ↑ Achievements, State of the Game | May 21, 2012
- ↑ Avatar Creator, Build Notes | June 12th, 2012
- ↑ Avatar Creator, 2013 June Community Update — 29 June 2013
- ↑ Many features reintroduced, 2012 July Community Update — 24 July 2012
- ↑ Versus Mode, 1.0.71 Build Notes | December 12, 2012
- ↑ in-game Shop, Notes for Build 1.0.10.21 — 21 August 2012
- ↑ Gems, 1.8.0 Patch Notes | April 18, 2013
- ↑ Gems, 2013 April Community Update — 25 April 2013
- ↑ Trainer Tokens, 1.11.18 Patch Notes | July 25, 2013
- ↑ Trading, 1.0.42 Build Notes | October 23, 2012
- ↑ Daily Bonuses, 1.0.84 Build Notes | January 16, 2013
- ↑ Daily Match Bonus, Server Update | April 23, 2015
- ↑ Daily Login Bonus, 2.28.1 Patch Notes | June 2nd
- ↑ 5-card Booster pack, 2013 July Community Update — 31 July 2013
- ↑ Player rank, 1.13.27 Patch Notes | October 3, 2013
- ↑ Play as a Guest, 2013 October Community Update — 1 November 2013
- ↑ Interface changes, 2013 July Community Update — 31 July 2013
- ↑ Interface changes, 2013 September Community Update — 2 October 2013
- ↑ Interface changes, 2013 November Community Update — 28 November 2013
- ↑ Interface changes, January 2014 Community Update — 9 January 2014
- ↑ Interface changes, 2.17.239 | February 5, 2014
- ↑ Interface changes, 2.18.0.380 Patch Notes | March 27, 2014
- ↑ Interface changes & iPad, September 2014 Community Update — 25 September 2014
- ↑ Tournament Mode, February 2014 Community Update — 01 March 2014
- ↑ Tournament Mode, 2.18.0.380 Patch Notes | March 27, 2014
- ↑ Tournaments Alpha Testing Status Update — 11 April 2014
- ↑ Tournament Mode, April 2014 Community Update — 1 May 2014
- ↑ The Clash of Magma vs. Aqua - The very first Pokémon TCG Online tournament event! — 4 February 2015
- ↑ Play Tournaments! On-demand — 24 February 2015
- ↑ Give the Bonus Wheel a Spin! — 25 June 2014
- ↑ Mystery Box contents updates — 28 July 2014
- ↑ Bonus Wheel, 2.26 Patch Notes | February 4, 2015
- ↑ in-game Tutorials, 2.22.0.755 Patch Notes | August 13, 2014
- ↑ Pokémon Trainer Club, 2.23.0.822 Patch Notes | September 3, 2014
- ↑ Daily Challenge Details – Achievements and Daily Login — 24 March 2015
- ↑ Special Challenges/Tournament Chests, 2.28 Patch Notes | May 6, 2015
This article is part of both Project Sidegames and Project TCG, Bulbapedia projects that, together, aim to write comprehensive articles on the Pokémon Sidegames and TCG, respectively. |
[[it:Gioco di Carte Collezionabili Pokémon Online