Pokémon TCG Pocket Replaces 3-Star Card Art Following Fan Art Controversy

The Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) continues to be a cornerstone of Nintendo’s robust ecosystem, captivating millions of fans worldwide.

Recently, The Pokémon Company International addressed a significant concern related to Pokémon TCG Pocket, specifically within the Wisdom of Sea and Sky set available through the eShop and connected platforms.

The issue involved the 3-Star Ho-Oh and Lugia cards, which had initially featured artwork traced or heavily inspired by a fan artist’s creations—a situation that sparked immediate backlash from the global Pokémon community. Shortly after the controversy came to light, The Pokémon Company acted swiftly, publicly acknowledging the error and committing to take corrective measures.

In a formal statement, representatives for the company emphasized that protecting artists’ original work is of paramount importance and assured fans that appropriate steps would be taken to rectify the situation. True to their word, The Pokémon Company has now unveiled official replacement art for both the Ho-Oh and Lugia 3-Star cards in the Pokémon TCG Pocket Wisdom of Sea and Sky series.

The new designs, crafted by the internal creative team, are now making their debut just one week after the controversy was made public.

This rapid response highlights the company’s dedication to quality control and its ongoing respect for the creative integrity of the Pokémon franchise. The Pokémon TCG Pocket, available on the Nintendo Switch platform and related digital services, has seen significant growth since its release, engaging veteran collectors and newcomers alike.

As part of the company’s broader commitment to its player base, these measures not only address immediate concerns but also reinforce Pokémon’s longstanding reputation for transparency and ethical content creation. Pokémon TCG Pocket and its expansion sets such as Wisdom of Sea and Sky continue to drive sales and sustain community enthusiasm across retail and digital channels, marking another milestone in Nintendo’s acclaimed partnership with The Pokémon Company.

As the series moves forward, both the developer and publisher have reiterated their dedication to upholding fan trust and ensuring the highest standards for all officially sanctioned artwork. With the new Ho-Oh and Lugia cards already gaining attention on the eShop and among TCG communities, players are once again reminded of the importance of authenticity in game design—a value that remains at the core of Nintendo and The Pokémon Company’s legacy.

Pokémon The Pokémon Company Pokémon TCG Pokémon Company Pokémon TCG Pocket TCG Pocket Sky Ho-Oh Lugia Wisdom of Sea and Sky Nintendo