In *Pokemon Pocket*, the concept of 'Poisoned' mirrors one of the Special Conditions from the physical *Pokemon Trading Card Game*. When a Pokemon is afflicted with Poisoned, it suffers a gradual loss of HP at a rate of 10 HP per turn until it's either knocked out or the condition is cured. Understanding how Poisoned is applied, which cards feature this ability, how to cure it, and which decks best utilize this effect is crucial for mastering *Pokemon TCG Pocket*. This guide dives into all these aspects to enhance your gameplay strategy.
What Is 'Poisoned' in Pokemon TCG Pocket?
The Poisoned condition in Pokemon TCG Pocket is a persistent effect that causes an afflicted Pokemon to lose 10 HP at the end of each turn during the Checkup phase. Unlike some other conditions, Poisoned does not dissipate over time or through coin flips; it remains until the Pokemon is cured or defeated. Importantly, while multiple Poison effects won't stack to increase damage per turn, you can capitalize on a Poisoned opponent with cards like Muk, which deals an additional +50 DMG to Poisoned foes.
Which Cards Have the Poisoned Ability?
In the Genetic Apex expansion, the cards capable of inflicting Poisoned are Weezing, Grimer, Nidoking, Tentacruel, and Venomoth. Grimer stands out as a top choice due to its ability to poison with just one Energy as a Basic Pokemon. Weezing, on the other hand, can apply Poisoned through its Gas Leak ability without needing Energy, though it must be in the Active slot to do so. For those looking to experiment with Poisoned decks, consider exploring Pokemon Pocket's Rental Decks, such as Koga’s, which features Grimer and Arbok.
How Do You Cure Poisoned?
To counteract the Poisoned condition, you have three main options:
- Evolution: Evolving the Poisoned Pokemon will remove the Poisoned status.
- Retreat: By benching the afflicted Pokemon, you prevent further HP loss due to Poisoned.
- Item Cards: While cards like Potion can heal HP lost to Poisoned, they don't cure the condition itself but can extend your Active Pokemon's lifespan on the field.
What Is the Best Poison Deck?
While Poison decks aren't currently dominating the Pokemon Pocket metagame, a well-constructed lineup featuring Grimer, Arbok, and Muk can be highly effective. The strategy hinges on rapidly poisoning foes with Grimer, trapping them with Arbok, and then hitting them hard with Muk's increased damage against Poisoned targets.
Poisoned Deck Details
| Card | Quantity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Grimer | x2 | Applies Poisoned |
| Ekans | x2 | Evolves into Arbok |
| Arbok | x2 | Locks in the enemy’s Active Pokemon |
| Muk | x2 | Deals 120 DMG to Poisoned Pokemon |
| Koffing | x2 | Evolves into Weezing |
| Weezing | x2 | Applies Poisoned with an Ability |
| Koga | x2 | Puts an Active Weezing or Muk back in your hand |
| Poke Ball | x2 | Draws a Basic Pokemon |
| Professor’s Research | x2 | Draws two cards |
| Sabrina | x1 | Forces the enemy’s Active Pokemon to Retreat |
| X Speed | x1 | Discounts the Retreat |
For alternative strategies, you might consider the Jigglypuff (PA) and Wigglytuff ex lineup as a secondary option in your Poisoned deck, or the Nidoking Evolution lineup for a slower but potentially devastating Poisoned strategy.
