Pokemon TCG Pocket: Poisoned, Explained (& All Cards with ‘Poison’ Ability)

This guide delves into the intricacies of the Poisoned condition within the Pokémon TCG Pocket game. We'll explore its mechanics, which cards inflict it, how to counter it, and effective deck-building strategies.

Understanding the Poisoned Condition

Poisoned is a Special Condition inflicting 10 HP damage to an Active Pokémon at the end of each round. This damage is calculated during the round's Checkup phase and persists until cured or the Pokémon is knocked out. While it can coexist with other Special Conditions, multiple Poisoned effects on a single Pokémon don't increase the damage beyond 10 HP per turn. However, certain Pokémon, like Muk, benefit from this status, dealing increased damage to Poisoned opponents.

Pokémon with the Poisoned Ability

Several Pokémon in the Genetic Apex expansion possess the ability to inflict the Poisoned condition:

• Weezing (Gas Leak ability - requires no energy, but must be active)
• Grimer (Basic Pokémon, efficient poisoning with one Energy)
• Nidoking
• Tentacruel
• Venomoth

Grimer stands out as a particularly effective option due to its low energy cost and basic Pokémon status.

Curing Poisoned

Three methods exist to counter 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.

Building a Poison-Type Deck

While not a top-tier archetype, a potent Poison deck can be built around the Grimer, Arbok, and Muk synergy. This strategy focuses on rapid poisoning with Grimer, opponent lock-in with Arbok, and maximizing Muk's damage against Poisoned opponents. A sample decklist is provided below:

Sample Poison Deck

Alternative strategies could incorporate Jigglypuff (PA) and Wigglytuff ex or the Nidoking evolution line (Nidoran, Nidorino, Nidoking) for different playstyles. Remember to utilize the Rental Decks feature for a good starting point.