The Pokemon Trading Card Game has long used icons on physical cards to denote special promotional sets. Pokemon TCG Pocket, the mobile app version, has adopted a similar practice with its Promo Cards, earned through events like the Venusaur Drop Solo Battle. However, the size and placement of these digital promo icons have sparked player frustration.
The issue lies in the icon’s prominent position in the right-center of the card, often obstructing key artwork. This is particularly noticeable on full-illustration cards like the recent Venusaur promo card, where the icon sits squarely on the slumbering Pokemon. Players have taken to online forums to express their discontent, with some jokingly exaggerating the icon’s size to highlight the problem.
While the actual icon isn’t as overwhelming as some of the memes suggest, its central placement disrupts the visual harmony of the card art. This contrasts with the physical TCG, where promo icons are typically relegated to the corner of the illustration panel, minimizing interference with the artwork.
The consistent placement of the promo icon on Pokemon TCG Pocket cards, regardless of illustration style, exacerbates the issue. On full-art cards like the Venusaur promo, the icon obscures a portion of the Pokemon’s back and its peaceful resting spot. This detracts from the immersive experience that these beautifully illustrated cards are intended to provide.
The problem becomes even more apparent when comparing promo cards to other coveted illustration cards in Pokemon TCG Pocket that lack the intrusive icon. For many collectors, the aesthetic appeal of the card art is paramount. The centrally placed promo badge diminishes this enjoyment, interrupting the visual flow and impacting the overall aesthetic.
While this might seem like a minor complaint compared to other issues players have raised about Pokemon TCG Pocket, it remains a valid concern. The clash between the desire to showcase card rarity and the need to preserve the artistic integrity of the card art is evident. For players who appreciate the intricate details and artistic beauty of Pokemon cards, the current promo icon placement detracts from the overall collecting experience.
