Pokémon comes to iOS with iPad release of the Trading Card Game

A digital version of the Pokémon Trading Card Game, in which players battle with card-based versions of creatures from the popular series, is now available as a free-to-play app for iPad and iPad mini via the iTunes App Store.

Pokémon TCG Online is currently available as a downloadable client for both Mac and Windows PC. The TCG app is intended to provide a similar experience to the PC version by allowing players to learn the game, build decks, customize avatars and battle other players. Cards can either be purchased or won.

According to The Pokémon Company International's director of consumer marketing, J.C. Smith, the app is an easier way to get fans into the game.

"We want to provide players with various access points to play and enjoy the Pokémon TCG, whether it's the traditional tabletop game, PC and Mac version, or the iPad and iPad mini app," Smith said.

The app was released in Australia, Canada, France, New Zealand and the U.K. yesterday. It's expected to launch in additional markets, including Africa and South America, this week.

For more on The Pokémon Company International, check out our report. You can also view all our Pokémon stories in our hub.