Pokémon Go vs. Pokémon TCG Pocket: Which game had the better launch?

23 February 2025 •

4 minutes of reading

Since their launch, Pokémon TCG Pocket and Pokémon Go have marked the mobile gaming world. But how do they compare in terms of performance, revenue, and player engagement?

Let’s dive into the numbers and key aspects of these two flagship titles.

By PokemonGoLive.com

1. Launch and First Month Figures

Pokémon TCG Pocket

• Release date : October 30, 2024

• Downloads : 60 million in 1.5 months according to JournalDuGeek

• Estimated revenue : 500 million dollars in 97 days according to AppMagic.

Pokémon Go

• Release date : July 2016

• Downloads : 130 million in the first month

• Revenue : 206 million dollars in the first month

Pokémon Go revolutionized mobile gaming with augmented reality. Its business model relies on PokéCoins, incubators, raid passes, and event tickets.

Verdict : Pokémon Go had a much bigger impact at launch, but Pokémon TCG Pocket could attract a niche of TCG fans.

2. Business Model

Pokémon TCG Pocket

Subscription system

Cosmetics (card backs, visual effects)

Pokémon Go

PokéCoins (for Poké Balls, incubators, etc.)

Raid passes and event tickets

Pokémon Go still generates over $1 billion per year, while Pokémon TCG Pocket will have to prove its profitability in the long term.

By Pokemon.com

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3. Long-Term Potential

Pokémon Go has proven its durability (8 years and still popular).

Pokémon TCG Pocket could become a Hearthstone-like, but will depend on updates and licenses.

Conclusion

Pokémon Go remains unbeatable in terms of revenue and cultural impact, but Pokémon TCG Pocket could attract card fans with more strategic gameplay. To be continued!