DeNA, the developer of Pokémon Masters, has secured another partnership with the popular Pokémon franchise through the announcement of Pokémon Trading Card Game Pocket. This mobile adaptation of the trading card game involves collaboration between The Pokémon Company, Creatures Inc, and DeNA to bring the traditional card game into the digital realm. Investors are optimistic about the potential success of this project, evident in the 24.4% surge in DeNA’s shares following the announcement. This boost comes after a significant decline in game profits between April and December 2023.
According to a report by Bloomberg, DeNA’s shares had reached a 3.5-year low before the unveiling of the card game. Pokémon Trading Card Game Pocket was introduced during the Pokémon Day presentation on February 27, coinciding with the franchise’s 28th anniversary. Fans eagerly anticipate annual updates and announcements on this day, which also brought news of content updates for all five active mobile Pokémon games.
In addition to the mobile game, Pokémon Legends: Z-A was announced for the Nintendo Switch, continuing the innovative approach of the Legends series following the success of Legends: Arceus. While 2024 may not see a new Nintendo platform Pokémon release for the first time since 2015, the mobile market will be enriched with Trading Card Game Pocket’s launch. With a history of over 50 billion card sales, the physical trading card game still thrives after decades, making the transition to mobile a logical progression. Players can expect features such as organizing their collections, trading with friends, and engaging in streamlined battles. The game will offer two free card packs daily, with additional packs likely available for purchase.
Given the enduring popularity of collectible Pokémon cards, the rapid rise in DeNA’s shares is understandable. It has been nearly a year since the establishment of Nintendo Systems, a joint venture between DeNA and Nintendo focusing on digital services, with anticipated results yet to fully materialize.
