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 Card Collection

A $8,500+ Investment (Excluding Sales)

Hajimesyacho, a popular 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 buying the maximum 720 Poké Gold daily since the game's October 30, 2024 release. This daily expenditure, estimated at around $100, translates to a total investment of approximately $8,500 over 85 days—excluding any potential savings from in-game sales events.

His dedication resulted in a complete collection from the Genetic Apex (A1) and Mythical Island booster packs, along with time-limited promotional cards. The recent addition of a "Pokedex" Trainer card, awarded for global card collection milestones (40 billion cards), further showcases the game's progress.

McDonald's Happy Meal Collaboration: Physical & In-Game Rewards

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

Fifteen unique physical cards, featuring popular Pokémon like Miraidon, Roaring Moon, and Rayquaza (seven with a holographic finish), are randomly distributed. In-game, players receive 24 Pack Hourglasses and 12 Hourglasses to enhance their card-opening experience.

Four distinct Happy Meal box designs, showcasing Charizard, Rayquaza, Roaring Moon, Dragonite, and Pikachu, add to the excitement. This limited-time promotion is available while supplies last, with in-game rewards expiring on March 31, 2025.

Upcoming Trading Feature in Pokémon TCG Pocket

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

Initially, trading will focus on cards from the Genetic Apex (A1) and Mythical Island booster packs, with the developers promising to expand the selection based on player feedback. A new booster pack is also teased for release in January.