Evolving Meta Decks in Triumphant Light
Pokémon TCG Pocket’s latest expansion, Triumphant Light, is shaking up the meta with a wave of innovative decks. Powerful cards such as Arceus Ex, Irida, and Sky Support Shaymin, alongside Leafeon Ex, have fueled the emergence of new strategies. Long-standing archetypes are undergoing transformation; for example, cards like Exeggutor Ex have seen their prominence diminish after the breakthrough of Leafeon Ex. In some cases, familiar counters – like Sudowoodo countering Arceus Ex in Fighting decks – have reshaped the strategic landscape.
The Ongoing Demand for Enhanced Trainer Cards
Amid these rapid changes in deck construction, certain staple Trainer cards have stood the test of time. Notably, Professor’s Research and Poke Ball consistently appear in nearly every deck. Fans have long appreciated Professor’s Research for its ability to draw two cards from a 20-card deck—a significant boost in card advantage. Similarly, Poke Ball is a near-ubiquitous inclusion, typically appearing in two copies but sometimes only once, as it fetches a random basic Pokémon from the deck.
However, these essential cards remain available only in their base versions, with no special presentation to set them apart from the rest. Despite being simple and relatively free to include in a deck, their constant use across the meta makes them prime candidates for a cosmetic upgrade.
Enhancing the Look with Full Art Versions
A number of quality-of-life improvements have been suggested for Pokémon TCG Pocket, ranging from tweaks to Pack Points to other gameplay updates. Yet, one glaring omission has caught the community’s attention: the lack of full art, or other rarer versions, for popular Trainer cards. In every expansion since Genetic Apex, full art Trainer cards have been a recurring theme—from the beloved Leaf illustration in Mythical Island to the standout OP Cyrus featured in the Space-Time Smackdown update.
Fans argue that it would be only natural for Professor’s Research and Poke Ball to receive the same special treatment. Special art enhances the visual appeal and collector value of cards, and players have been requesting these updates for months.
Approaches for Future Expansions
One potential approach for rewarding players’ loyalty would be to mirror the physical version of the Pokémon Trading Card Game. By introducing special full art editions, the next expansion of Pokémon TCG Pocket could spotlight a different Pokémon Professor—a modern take on the classic Professor Oak concept. For instance, a dedicated Generation 9 set might feature a secret rare version of Professor’s Research reimagined as either Professor Sada or Turo, aligning with the Scarlet and Violet theme.
Regarding Poke Ball, developers could offer a full art shiny version that stands out visually. Much like other full art Trainer cards in the game, this version might include varied artistic depictions of different types of Poke Balls. Although this upgrade is purely cosmetic and will not alter gameplay mechanics, it would satisfy longtime fans and collectors, ensuring these important cards receive the attention they deserve.
Final Thoughts
The evolution of deck strategies in the Triumphant Light set highlights how Pokémon TCG Pocket continues to grow and innovate. Yet, even as new cards and mechanics drive change, the absence of updated, full art versions of key staples like Professor’s Research and Poke Ball remains a noticeable gap. The introduction of these enhancements in future expansions would not only bolster the game’s visual appeal but also offer dedicated fans a tangible way to celebrate some of the most important cards in the meta.
By embracing such cosmetic updates, Pokémon TCG Pocket can maintain its momentum while building an even stronger connection with its community. As the game evolves, one thing is clear: the future holds exciting improvements that promise to balance innovation with the timeless charm of the classics.
