Pokémon TCG: Poison Masters Revealed!

This guide explores the intricacies of the Poisoned condition in Pokémon TCG Pocket, a special status effect that gradually drains a Pokémon's HP. We'll cover what Poisoned is, which Pokémon inflict it, how to cure it, and build a competitive Poison-themed deck.

Quick Links

• What is Poisoned in Pokémon TCG Pocket?
• Which Pokémon Inflict Poisoned?
• How to Cure Poisoned
• Building a Strong Poison Deck

Pokémon TCG Pocket incorporates several Special Conditions from the physical card game, including Poisoned. This condition steadily reduces a Pokémon's HP until it's cured or knocked out. Understanding how Poisoned works, which cards utilize it, and how to counter it is crucial for effective gameplay.

What is Poisoned in Pokémon TCG Pocket?

Poisoned is a Special Condition that inflicts 10 HP damage at the end of each turn. This damage is calculated during the round's Checkup phase and persists until cured or the Pokémon is defeated. Unlike some effects, it doesn't disappear automatically. While it can combine with other Special Conditions, it doesn't stack with additional Poison effects; a Pokémon only loses 10 HP per turn regardless of multiple applications. However, this status can be exploited by certain Pokémon, such as Muk, for increased damage output.

Which Pokémon Inflict Poisoned?

In the Genetic Apex expansion, five Pokémon can inflict the Poisoned status: Weezing, Grimer, Nidoking, Tentacruel, and Venomoth. Grimer stands out as an effective Basic Pokémon, poisoning opponents with a single Energy. Weezing offers another strong option, using its Gas Leak ability (no Energy needed) while active.

For aspiring Poison deck builders, exploring the game's Rental Decks is recommended. Koga's Rental Deck, featuring Grimer and Arbok, provides a solid starting point.

How to Cure Poisoned?

Three methods exist to counteract 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, extending survivability but not curing the Poisoned status itself.

Building a Strong Poison Deck

While not a top-tier archetype, a potent Poison deck can be constructed around the Grimer, Arbok, and Muk synergy. The strategy revolves around swiftly poisoning opponents with Grimer, using Arbok to lock down their Active Pokémon, and leveraging Muk's increased damage against Poisoned targets.

Below is a sample decklist showcasing this strategy:

Sample Poison Deck

Alternative strategies include using Jigglypuff (PA) and Wigglytuff ex, or a slower, high-damage approach with the Nidoking evolution line (Nidoran, Nidorino, Nidoking).