Pokémon Card Collector Purchases 50K Cards in Historic Spree

A Japanese YouTuber achieved a remarkable feat in Pokémon TCG Pocket, accumulating over 50,000 cards through consistent daily Poké Gold purchases since the game's launch. This impressive accomplishment, coupled with a new McDonald's collaboration, highlights the game's growing popularity. Let's delve into the details.

Japanese YouTuber's Massive Pokémon TCG Pocket Collection

A $8,500+ Investment (Excluding Sales)

Hajimesyacho, a prominent Japanese YouTuber known for diverse content, revealed his impressive collection of 50,000 Pokémon TCG Pocket cards on Twitter (X). This was achieved by maximizing daily Poké Gold purchases – 720 per day – since the game's October 30, 2024 launch. With an estimated daily cost of $100, his investment totals approximately $8,500 over 85 days, excluding any potential savings from sales events.

This dedication secured him a complete collection of cards from the Genetic Apex (A1) and Mythical Island booster packs, along with limited-edition promotional cards. The latest addition, a "Pokedex" Trainer card, rewards players for the global accumulation of 40 billion cards.

McDonald's and Pokémon TCG Pocket Team Up!

On January 21, 2025, a surprise collaboration between The Pokémon Company and McDonald's was announced. Pokémon-themed Happy Meals offer collectible physical cards and in-game rewards. Fifteen unique physical cards, including popular Pokémon like Miraidon, Roaring Moon, and Rayquaza (seven with a holographic finish), are available randomly. TCG Pocket players also receive in-game rewards: 24 Pack Hourglasses and 12 Hourglasses for opening booster packs and utilizing the Wonder Pick feature.

Four distinct Happy Meal box designs feature iconic dragon-type Pokémon like Charizard, Rayquaza, Roaring Moon, and Dragonite, alongside Pikachu. These limited-time offers are available at participating McDonald's locations until supplies last. Remember, in-game rewards expire on March 31, 2025.

Trading Feature on the Horizon

On January 17, 2025, Pokémon TCG Pocket announced details about its upcoming trading feature. Trading will initially be limited to friends with cards of equal rarity (1-4 diamonds and 1-star). Rarer cards (Special Illustration Rare, Immersive, and Crown Rares) are excluded. A consumable item, similar to Stardust in Pokémon GO, will facilitate trades.

While initially focusing on cards from the Genetic Apex (A1) and Mythical Island booster packs, the developers promise to expand trading options based on player feedback. A new booster pack is also teased for release in January 2025.