Pokémon TCG Pocket has achieved a another milestone for Pikachu and friends, generating over $1.3 billion in its first year, surpassing the record-breaking debut of Pokémon GO, which earned around $1 billion in its first twelve months. This remarkable success cements the digital trading card game as the most lucrative first-year mobile release in the Pokémon franchise’s history.
Launched globally in October 2024, Pokémon TCG Pocket brought the beloved Pokémon Trading Card Game into a mobile-first format, blending nostalgia with modern accessibility. The game quickly attracted both long-time fans of the physical card game and new players eager to experience Pokémon battles in a digital space. According to data from AppMagic, the title not only outperformed expectations but also set a new benchmark for mobile gaming revenue within the franchise.
The scale of its success is staggering. In its first 24 hours, Pokémon TCG Pocket reportedly generated nearly $2 million, signaling the explosive demand that would carry it through the year. By the end of its first twelve months, the game had been downloaded more than 150 million times worldwide, with consistent engagement driving its revenue past the $1.3 billion mark. This figure eclipses the first-year performance of Pokémon GO, which had previously been considered the gold standard for mobile game launches.
Several factors contributed to this achievement. The game’s monetization strategy, built around digital card packs and in-game events, proved highly effective. Unlike Pokémon GO, which relied heavily on location-based gameplay, Pokémon TCG Pocket offered a more accessible experience that could be enjoyed anywhere, broadening its appeal. The combination of competitive play, collectible mechanics, and frequent content updates kept players invested and willing to spend.
The impact of this success extends beyond revenue. Developer DeNA, which partnered with The Pokémon Company on the project, reported an 8,000% increase in sales for its games division, underscoring the transformative effect of the title. The game also earned critical acclaim, winning Game of the Year at the Pocket Gamer Mobile Games Awards 2025, further solidifying its reputation as a cultural and commercial phenomenon.
For the Pokémon franchise, this milestone highlights the enduring power of its brand and its ability to adapt across generations and platforms. While Pokémon GO revolutionized mobile gaming with its augmented reality mechanics, Pokémon TCG Pocket has demonstrated that the franchise’s roots in strategy and collection remain just as compelling in the digital age. The game’s success also suggests that the trading card genre, often considered niche, has untapped potential when paired with a globally recognized brand.
