The Pokemon CompanyPokemon TCG Pocket leaks reveal that ranked battles are finally set to be added to the game, and it’ll be very soon.
Pokemon TCG Pocket was first released at the end of 2024 and has quickly become a massive hit among Pokemon fans.
The virtual trading card game made millions of dollars in its first few months. It has its own meta, unique promo cards to collect, and plenty more for longtime Pokemon fans to enjoy. However, many features still need to be added, and fans are desperate to have others that are already included reworked.
Trading was finally introduced in January 2025, but the limitations and restrictions included players slamming the mechanic so much that developer Niantic responded and vowed to alter it in the future.
While players wait, they should have a new feature to contend with. It’s been leaked that ranked matches will finally be added to Pokemon TCG Pocket. This report comes from Pyoro, the same source that previously revealed that the last set, Space-Time Smackdown, would feature Pokemon from Generation 4 and include two new pack types to open.
Currently, there is no option for any ranked battles in Pokemon TCG Pocket. The only way to fight against other players is via the causal “versus” game mode. While players can earn experience and rewards for doing so, there is still a massive gap regarding the competitive aspect of replicating the classic TCG experience.
Alternatively, players can compete against the computer in in-game events. Still, this feature has been criticized for lacking variety in “irritating” completion tasks.
Regarding when ranked battles will be officially introduced to TCG Pocket, the leak claimed they would be added in March. With Pokemon Day right around the corner and plenty of updates expected from this event, this will likely be officially announced if it launches in March.
What does ranked play mean for Pokemon TCG Pocket?
The Pokemon CompanyAs it stands, Pokemon TCG Pocket is more of a casual experience for gamers. They open packs, collect new cards, and earn rewards via computer battles. Trading has added more social gameplay, but Pocket has avoided introducing competitive elements to the app.
The introduction of ranked play would significantly change the game. The meta will be more critical than ever, and strategy will be a more significant factor. Finding counters to the most popular builds is pivotal to ensuring success and climbing the ranks.
After all, one of the most important aspects of Pokemon is competitive battles, and given how vocal the community has been about adding this mechanic to TCG Pocket, it was only a matter of time before the devs listened.
This new feature would also allow for more in-game events, rewards and items, and, most importantly, a more complete Pokemon TCG experience for app users.
