Pokemon TCG Pocket vs TCG Live: What is the difference?

Pokemon TCG Pocket, released on October 30, 2023, has quickly gained popularity in the community, earning more daily revenue than Pokemon Go. However, many fans have wondered what makes the game different from the original Pokemon TCG Live.

Questions about which version is better, and whether Pocket will be replacing TCG Live, have also arisen. Below we’ll explore these differences in detail and offer insights to help you determine which game best suits your needs and if Live is actually coming to an end.

What is the difference?

The difference between Pokemon TCG Pocket and TCG Live is primarily competitive versus casual gameplay. Live provides an authentic card battle experience for players seeking true simulation, while Pocket offers a relaxed setting for opening packs, collecting cards, and casual battles at your convenience.

Here are all the key differences between the two games:

Feature	Pokemon TCG Live	Pokemon TCG Pocket
Release Date	June 8, 2023	October 30, 2023
Platform Availability	Mobile and desktop	Mobile
Target Audience	More experienced and competitive players	Casual players and newcomers
Gameplay Style	Competitive, in-depth mechanics, longer matches	Casual, quick gameplay
Deck Size	60 cards	20 cards
Game Depth	Full mechanics of the physical TCG for all strategies.	Simplified mechanics that disable some strategies.
Prize Cards vs Points	Prize Cards	Points system
Customization Options	High level of deck customization	Limited customization
User Interface	Detailed, with animations and customization	Simple and user-friendly
Card Collection	Extensive collection features, including trading and barcode scanning for real-life cards	Focused on opening digital packs and collecting. Has no barcode scanner for physical cards.
Match Types	Ranked matches and events	Casual battles at your convenience
Updates and Support	Regular updates and new content	Less frequent updates

Which is better?

The choice between Pokémon TCG Pocket vs Pokémon TCG Live ultimately depends on your playstyle.

If you’re looking for a fast-paced, casual experience that allows you to collect cards and play on the go, Pocket is the ideal option. Its user-friendly design makes it easy to jump into quick matches whenever you have time.

Alternatively, if you’re a seasoned player who desires a complete simulation of in-person gameplay with the ability to engage in competitive matches for extended periods, TCG Live is the superior choice. It does offer a more immersive and strategic gaming experience.

Will Pocket replace TCG live?

The Pokémon Company has not announced or indicated that TCG Pocket is replacing TCG Live, despite some having expressed concerns due to their distinct similarities.

Together, these platforms coexist to serve different segments of the Pokemon TCG community, allowing you to select the option that best fits your gaming style and preferences.

Overall, the two games work similarly to the Yu-Gi-Oh! franchise. Yugioh Duel Links is the fast easy-to-understand TCG version suited more for casual fans and beginners, while Yugioh Master Duel is more complex and is for competitive players.

Check out our complete guide for the rarest cards in Pocket and all their pull rates and how you can get the secret and ultra-rare Mew card.