Poisonous Pokémon TCG Pocket Expansion Unveiled

Author: Michael Dec 26,2024

This guide explores the effects of the "Poisoned" status condition in Pokémon TCG Pocket, detailing how it works, which cards inflict it, how to cure it, and strategies for building effective Poison decks.

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Pokémon TCG Pocket features several Special Conditions, including Poisoned. This condition causes gradual HP loss to an Active Pokémon until cured or knocked out. Understanding how it works, which Pokémon inflict it, and how to counter it is crucial for strategic gameplay.

What is Poisoned in Pokémon TCG Pocket?

Poisoned is a Special Condition that inflicts 10 HP damage at the end of each round. This damage is calculated during the round's Checkup phase and persists until cured. While it can combine with other Special Conditions, multiple Poisoned effects don't stack; a Pokémon only loses 10 HP per turn regardless of how many times it's inflicted. However, some Pokémon benefit from the Poisoned status, dealing increased damage to poisoned opponents.

Which Cards Inflict Poisoned?

In the Genetic Apex expansion, several cards inflict the Poisoned status: Weezing, Grimer, Nidoking, Tentacruel, and Venomoth. Grimer stands out as an efficient Basic Pokémon inflicting Poisoned with just one Energy. Weezing's "Gas Leak" ability also applies Poisoned without needing Energy but only when active.

How to Cure Poisoned?

Three methods exist to counter the Poisoned effect:

  1. Evolution: Evolving a Poisoned Pokémon removes the condition.
  2. Retreat: Moving the Poisoned Pokémon to the bench prevents further HP loss.
  3. Item Cards: Cards like Potion heal HP, mitigating the damage but not curing Poisoned directly.

Building a Strong Poison Deck

While not a top-tier archetype, a potent Poison deck can be built around the Grimer, Arbok, and Muk synergy. Grimer quickly inflicts Poisoned, Arbok prevents opponent's retreats, and Muk inflicts significant damage to poisoned opponents.

A sample decklist might include:

Card Quantity Effect
Grimer x2 Applies Poisoned
Ekans x2 Evolves into Arbok
Arbok x2 Locks in the enemy's Active Pokémon
Muk x2 Deals increased damage to Poisoned Pokémon
Koffing x2 Evolves into Weezing
Weezing x2 Applies Poisoned with an Ability
Koga x2 Returns Weezing or Muk to hand
Poké Ball x2 Draws a Basic Pokémon
Professor's Research x2 Draws two cards
Sabrina x1 Forces opponent's Active Pokémon to Retreat
X Speed x1 Reduces Retreat cost

Alternative strategies include using Jigglypuff (PA) and Wigglytuff ex, or a slower, high-damage approach with the Nidoking evolution line. Experimentation is key to finding the best Poison deck for your playstyle.

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