"Paralyzed Pokémon TCG Pocket: In-Depth Guide and Card List"

This guide explores the Paralyze effect in Pokémon TCG Pocket, detailing its mechanics, counters, and optimal deck building strategies.

What is Paralyzed in Pokémon TCG Pocket?

The Paralyzed status condition immobilizes the opponent's Active Pokémon for a single turn, preventing attacks and retreats. This effect automatically dissipates at the start of the opponent's next turn after their Checkup phase.

Paralyzed vs. Asleep

Both Paralyzed and Asleep prevent attacks and retreats. However, Paralyzed resolves automatically, while Asleep requires a coin flip or specific card effects for recovery.

Paralyzed in Pokémon Pocket vs. Physical TCG

Unlike the physical TCG, which offers cards like Full Heal to counter Paralysis, Pokémon TCG Pocket currently lacks direct counter cards. The core mechanic—inability to attack or retreat for one turn—remains consistent.

Pokémon with Paralyze Ability

Currently, only three Genetic Apex cards inflict Paralysis: Pincurchin, Elektross, and Articuno. All three utilize a coin flip, making the effect somewhat unreliable.

Recovering from Paralyzed

Four methods exist to cure Paralysis:

1. Time: The effect ends automatically after the next Checkup phase.
2. Evolution: Evolving the Paralyzed Pokémon removes the condition.
3. Retreat: Retreating the Pokémon removes the condition (bench Pokémon cannot have Special Conditions).
4. Support Cards: Currently, only Koga offers direct counterplay, but only under specific circumstances (Weezing or Muk).

Optimal Paralyze Deck

Paralyze alone is not a strong deck archetype. Pairing it with Asleep, however, creates synergy. An Articuno & Frosmoth deck, incorporating Wigglytuff ex, offers a potent combination of both effects.

Sample Paralyze/Asleep Deck List

This deck leverages the combined effects of Articuno, Frosmoth, and Wigglytuff ex to maximize the chances of inflicting both Asleep and Paralyzed, significantly hindering the opponent's gameplay. Remember that the reliance on coin flips remains a key weakness.