This guide explores the Paralyze effect in Pokémon TCG Pocket, a digital adaptation of the popular card game. The guide covers how the effect works, how to cure it, and strategies for incorporating it into a deck.
Paralyze in Pokémon TCG Pocket: A Quick Overview
Paralyze is a Special Condition that prevents an opponent's Active Pokémon from attacking or retreating for a single turn. The effect automatically disappears at the start of the next Checkup phase, just before your turn.
Paralyze vs. Asleep
Both Paralyze and Asleep hinder an opponent's Active Pokémon, but they differ in how they're resolved. Paralyze ends automatically, while Asleep requires a coin flip or specific counter-strategies (like evolving or forcing a retreat).
Paralyze in Pokémon Pocket vs. Physical TCG
Unlike the physical Pokémon TCG, which offers Trainer cards to counter Paralysis, Pokémon Pocket currently lacks direct counter cards. However, the core mechanic – preventing attack and retreat for one turn – remains consistent.
Pokémon with Paralyze Abilities
Currently, only three cards in the Genetic Apex expansion inflict Paralysis: Pincurchin, Elektross, and Articuno. Each relies on a coin flip, making consistent Paralysis application unreliable.
Curing Paralysis
Four methods exist to remove the Paralyze condition:
- Time: The effect automatically ends at the next Checkup phase.
- Evolution: Evolving the Paralyzed Pokémon instantly removes the condition.
- Retreat: Retreating the Pokémon to the Bench also cures Paralysis.
- Support Cards: Currently, only Koga's support card can counteract Paralysis, but only under specific conditions (Weezing or Muk).
Building a Paralyze Deck
Paralysis alone is not a strong deck-building strategy. Combining it with Asleep, however, can be effective. A sample Articuno & Frosmoth deck incorporating both conditions is provided below.
Sample Paralyze/Asleep Deck
Card | Quantity |
---|---|
Wigglypuff ex | 2 |
Jigglypuff | 2 |
Snom | 2 |
Frosmoth | 2 |
Articuno | 2 |
Misty | 2 |
Sabrina | 2 |
X Speed | 2 |
Professor's Research | 2 |
Poke Ball | 2 |
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the Paralyze effect in Pokémon TCG Pocket, offering insights into its mechanics, counters, and strategic applications.