This guide explores the intricacies of Poison in Pokémon TCG Pocket, a Special Condition mirroring the physical card game. This guide covers how Poisoned works, which cards inflict it, how to cure it, and effective deck-building strategies.
Quick Links
- What is Poisoned in Pokémon TCG Pocket?
- Which Cards Inflict Poisoned?
- How to Cure Poisoned
- Best Poison Decks
Pokémon TCG Pocket replicates several Special Conditions from the physical game, including Poisoned. This effect gradually depletes an Active Pokémon's HP until cured or knocked out. Understanding its application, the cards involved, cures, and effective deck strategies is crucial.
What is Poisoned in Pokémon TCG Pocket?
Poisoned is a Special Condition that subtracts 10 HP at the end of each round, calculated during the Checkup phase. Unlike some effects, it persists until cured or the Pokémon is defeated. While it can combine with other Special Conditions, it doesn't stack with additional Poison effects; only 10 HP is lost per round regardless of application frequency. Pokémon with Poison-based abilities, like Muk (dealing +50 DMG to Poisoned opponents), can exploit this status.
Which Cards Inflict Poisoned?
In the Genetic Apex expansion, five cards inflict Poisoned: Weezing, Grimer, Nidoking, Tentacruel, and Venomoth. Grimer stands out as a Basic Pokémon poisoning opponents with one Energy. Weezing's "Gas Leak" ability (usable only when Active) also inflicts Poisoned without Energy cost.
For Poison decks, consider Pokémon TCG Pocket's Rental Decks; Koga's deck, featuring Grimer and Arbok, is a good starting point.
How to Cure Poisoned?
Three methods exist:
- Evolution: Evolving a Poisoned Pokémon removes the condition.
- Retreat: Benching the Pokémon prevents further HP loss.
- Item Cards: Cards like Potion heal HP, extending survivability but not outright curing Poisoned.
Best Poison Decks?
While not a top-tier archetype, a strong Poison deck can be built around the Grimer, Arbok, and Muk synergy. Grimer quickly poisons opponents, Arbok traps them, and Muk inflicts up to 120 DMG on Poisoned enemies.
Poisoned Deck Example
| Card | Quantity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Grimer | x2 | Applies Poisoned |
| Ekans | x2 | Evolves into Arbok |
| Arbok | x2 | Locks in the enemy's Active Pokémon |
| Muk | x2 | Deals 120 DMG to Poisoned Pokémon |
| Koffing | x2 | Evolves into Weezing |
| Weezing | x2 | Applies Poisoned via Ability |
| Koga | x2 | Returns Active Weezing or Muk to your hand |
| Poké Ball | x2 | Draws a Basic Pokémon |
| Professor's Research | x2 | Draws two cards |
| Sabrina | x1 | Forces enemy's Active Pokémon to Retreat |
| X Speed | x1 | Discounts Retreat Cost |
Alternative strategies include Jigglypuff (PA) and Wigglytuff ex, or a slower, high-damage Nidoking evolution line (Nidoran, Nidorino, Nidoking).
