The Pokémon Trading Card Game (PTCGO) Space Time Smackdown expansion, released January 30th, features a Weavile ex card depicting a scene that has sparked outrage among players. Specifically, the full-art 2-Star version shows a group of Weavile poised to attack an unsuspecting Swinub.
This depiction of potential predation has generated significant online discussion, with numerous Reddit posts expressing concern and dismay. Many players highlight the graphic nature of the scene, contrasting it with the typically gentler portrayal of Pokémon interactions. One Reddit post, garnering nearly 10,000 upvotes, simply exclaims, "NO ! SWINUB LOOK UP !! LOOK UP !!".
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The intense reaction underscores the emotional connection players have with Pokémon characters. The perceived brutality of the card's artwork is jarring to many, who view Pokémon as generally friendly creatures. The juxtaposition of this violent imagery with the fantastical elements of the game (like laser beams) further intensifies the debate.
However, some fans offer a more optimistic interpretation, pointing to the Mamoswine full-art card, which depicts a Mamoswine (Swinub's evolution) protectively looking over several Swinub. This is presented as a potential "happy ending," suggesting Mamoswine intervened to save its young.
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Space Time Smackdown, a Diamond and Pearl-themed set, includes 207 cards, featuring Pokémon like Dialga, Palkia, and Giratina. While smaller than the Genetic Apex expansion, it boasts a higher percentage of rare alternate art cards (52 out of 207, compared to 60 out of 286 in Genetic Apex).
The developer, Creatures Inc., has yet to address the controversy surrounding the Weavile card artwork, despite receiving significant player feedback and a request for comment from IGN. A "Trade Feature Celebration Gift" was released, including in-game currency, but this has done little to quell the ongoing discussion. The lack of response from Creatures Inc. has further fueled player frustration.
