Game Boy Nostalgic Locations Unearthed in Pokémon TCG!

Pokémon TCG Pocket's captivating card art has captivated players for months, but recently, a fascinating discovery has emerged: subtle details linking certain Pokémon cards to the classic Game Boy games.

The investigation began when Reddit user asch_win highlighted Spearow's card, revealing familiar landmarks. The card's background depicts grass, a fence, trees, and two buildings – one strikingly similar to the Celadon City Department Store from Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen. The nearby fenced-in grass patch mirrors Route 16, a known Spearow habitat in the Kanto region.

Image showcasing Spearow card's background details.
by u/asch_win in PTCGP

This intentional referencing of iconic locations, seemingly by developers Creatures Inc. and DeNA, isn't limited to Spearow. Reddit user jteede uncovered further connections, including a Diglett card situated near Vermillion City and a Haunter card adjacent to Lavender Town's tower. Asch_win also identified location-specific references within several Supporter cards.

Many card illustrations depict Pokémon in fantastical settings, detached from established Pokémon lore. Some, like a Pikachu variant, resemble real-world collectible cards. However, others, uniquely found in Pokémon TCG Pocket, contain these cleverly hidden Easter eggs.

The Pokémon TCG Pocket community has enthusiastically joined the hunt, uncovering more hidden references. A Gyarados full-art card subtly features the S.S. Anne, while Oddish, Venonat, and Bellsprout cards collectively tell a story reminiscent of the seaside Snorlax encounter in FireRed and LeafGreen.

Image highlighting location references on Supporter cards.
by u/asch_win in PTCGP

Since its October release, Pokémon TCG Pocket has received one additional booster expansion, Mythical Island, bringing the total to four. Further expansions are anticipated, with new cards periodically added through Wonder Pick Events and updates. As Creatures and DeNA continue releasing cards from various generations, players are encouraged to remain vigilant for additional hidden references.

Meanwhile, the current Wonder Pick event features Charmander and Squirtle, and players can explore the ongoing debate surrounding the impact of pack choice.