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 on Twitter (now X) his impressive collection of 50,000 Pokémon TCG Pocket cards. This was achieved by consistently purchasing the maximum 720 Poké Gold daily since the game's October 30, 2024 launch. This daily expenditure, estimated at around $100, translates to a total investment of approximately $8,500 over 85 days, excluding any potential savings from sales events.

His dedication resulted in a complete collection of cards from the Genetic Apex (A1) and Mythical Island booster packs, along with time-limited promotional cards. The latest addition, a "Pokedex" Trainer card rewarding top collectors, was given to players celebrating the global collection of 40 billion cards.

McDonald's Happy Meal Collaboration

The Pokémon Company announced a surprise collaboration with McDonald's on January 21, 2025. Happy Meal purchases now include exclusive Pokémon-themed boxes containing physical collectible cards and in-game items.

Fifteen unique physical cards, including popular Pokémon like Miraidon, Roaring Moon, Rayquaza, and others (seven of which are holo/foil), are available randomly. Pokémon 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. This promotion is available at participating McDonald's locations while supplies last, with in-game rewards expiring on March 31, 2025.

Upcoming Trading Feature

On January 17, 2025, Pokémon TCG Pocket announced details about its upcoming trading feature. Trading will be limited to friends, requiring cards of the same 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.

Initially, trading will include cards from the Genetic Apex (A1) and Mythical Island booster packs, with the developers promising expanded card selection based on player feedback. A new booster pack is also teased for release in January, though the exact date remains unannounced.