The Pokemon TCG is finally getting its big digital upgrade. Pokemon TCG Live is ready to exit its successful year-long beta next month, and it's incentivizing players to make the switch with some sweet freebies.For those who haven't noticed the old Pokemon TCG Online app stopped receiving updates back in January, Pokemon TCG Live is the brand-new app that updates and upgrades the digital version of the Pokemon TCG. Much like Magic Arena updated Magic: The Gathering Online, Pokemon TCG Live will replace Pokemon Online with an improved interface, player customization options, cross-platform matchmaking, battle passes, and exclusive events. Players won't need to start their collection over, however, as you're able to transfer your TCG Online account to Pokemon Live.Related: I Opened 600 Packs In Pokemon TCG Live And I Still Can't Build A Decent DeckPokemon TCG Live started its beta in Canada back in February 2022 after originally targeting a 2021 release. The beta later expanded to other countries until it launched globally last November. At the time it was unknown how long the beta would last, but now we know that the beta will officially end on June 8, 2023, just ahead of the Scarlet & Violet - Paldea Evolved expansion.
To incentivize players leaving Pokemon Online for TCG Live, the new app is offering a free login reward for all players between now and June 6 at 10 AM PDT. Download the app and log in to receive a special Global Beta Coin, deck box, and sleeves. Keep in mind that you'll be able to transfer most of your old Pokemon TCG Online cards and items with a few exceptions, which you can read about on the TCG Live FAQ page here.
As for Pokemon Online, the app will be removed from mobile stores and global servers will shut down on June 5. That means you won't be able to download the old app or play any games using it. You'll still be able to transfer your account to Pokemon TCG Live after the shutdown, although the Pokemon Company didn't say how long such a service will be available.
Really, you should make the switch now while it’s both easy and profitable to do so. You can download Pokemon TCG Live from the Apple and Google Play app stores, and there are even PC and Mac versions of the app you can download to your desktop.
In other Pokemon TCG news, one Pokemon TCG store in Japan has taken the unusual step of barring adults from purchasing packs of the latest Clay Burst and Snow Hazard expansions. In Japan, scalpers have scooped up store inventories to resell these packs online for a huge markip, pricing most children out of the new expansions. To level the playing field, Hareruya 2 in Akihabara created a specific section just for kids, with adults being told to look elsewhere.
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