The Pokémon Company International announced the retirement ofPokémon Trading Card Game Online, making way for thePokémon TCG Liveapp. The new desktop and mobile app will completely revamp the digital trading card game - here’s what we know.

Set to launch later this year, thePokémon TCG Liveappwill be available to players on iOS and Android devices, as well as PCs and Macs. Free to play, the app lets players continue all the favorite parts of the collectable card game, but with updated visuals and gameplay.

The announcement of the new game comes with the retirement of the 2012Pokémon TCG Online, where players were first able to play the tabletop card game online. ThoughTCG Onlinewill shut down its servers just prior to the new game’s release, players will be able to transfer their current data toTCG Live.

What’s New In ThePokémon TCG LiveApp

TCG Livewill be a welcome update toTCG Online, providing a greater range of card decks more games in the franchise, as well as a host of varied customization options for new 3D avatars. Alongside the new avatars, the game will also feature updated visual effects, modernizing the old game UI for more exciting visual gameplay.

Additionally,PokémonTCG Livebrings a new card logic system that will respond to player gameplay more effectively. With a heavy focus on fluid mechanics, a stronger logic system will lead to more challenging matches and updated strategies. Players can also look forward to a Ranked Ladder, as well as a Battle Pass and duplicate card protection for game Credits.

Character Customization Screen

Most exciting, however, is the upcoming cross-platform play. WithTCG Livebeing available on both desktops and mobile devices, players can build decks and battle others on the go. A new app format also means thatTCG Livewill have periodic updates, bringing new frequent content post-launch.

WHAT PLAYERS CAN TRANSFER FROM THE TCG ONLINE

Players will be able to transfer and play all the cards fromtheSword & ShieldSeries,Sun & Moon—Lost Thunder, andSun & Moon—Cosmic EclipseatPokémon TCG Liveapp’s launch.

Cards from the earlier games in the franchise, likeSun & Moon,XY, andBlack & WhiteSeries are transferrable, but won’t be playable at launch quite yet. Upcoming post-launch updates will, however, ensure that these cards will be playable for Trainers. Unfortunately,HeartGold & SoulSilvercards will be unavailable to the game at the start.

Aside from the main cards, players can also transfer the following:

By combining the nostalgia of collectable cards with the modern convenience of smartphones,PokémonTCG LivekeepsPokémon’s roots alive. Though no specific release date has been announced, there will be a Canadian soft launch as well as a global open beta for PCs and Macs.