Pokémon Digital Card Game Surpasses Pokémon Go's Debut Performance

Pokémon TCG Pocket has eclipsed Pokémon Go to become the most lucrative first-year mobile game in the franchise's history, generating $1.3 billion since its October 2024 launch, according to data from mobile analytics firm AppMagic.

Data from AppMagic shows that the digital card game's performance exceeded Pokémon Go's inaugural year by roughly $245 million, marking a significant milestone as the title celebrates its first anniversary. The success has proven transformative for developer DeNA Co., whose games segment sales surged 8,000% following the release.

Revenue peaked in November 2024 at $229.3 million, while the game's strongest single day came Feb. 1, 2025, generating $11.2 million in revenue following the launch of its Space-Time Smackdown expansion pack.

Record Downloads Drive Pokémon TCG Pocket's Mobile Gaming Success

The title's rapid adoption underscores the enduring appeal of the Pokémon brand in mobile gaming. Downloads hit 10 million within three days of launch, reached 100 million after four months and exceeded 150 million by its one-year anniversary.

Industry analysts attribute the game's sustained engagement to regular content updates and a monthly subscription model offering daily bonus card packs. Expansions including Genetic Apex, Mythical Island and Space-Time Smackdown have tapped into nostalgia for earlier Pokémon generations while introducing new gameplay mechanics designed to appeal to both longtime fans and newcomers.

To commemorate its first anniversary, the game's latest update introduces Mega Evolution (a feature recently revived in the upcoming console title Pokémon Legends: ZA) along with limited-time events and promotional card packs.

The performance of Pokémon TCG Pocket reinforces the franchise's commanding position in the global mobile-games market as it enters its second year of operation.