Pokémon TCG: 'Poisoned' Ability & Cards Revealed

This guide explores the intricacies of the Poisoned condition in Pokémon TCG Pocket, a special status effect that gradually depletes a Pokémon's HP. We'll cover its mechanics, which Pokémon inflict it, how to counter it, and build a competitive Poison-type deck.

Quick Links

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

Pokémon TCG Pocket features several Special Conditions mirroring the physical card game, including Poisoned. This effect steadily reduces an Active Pokémon's HP until it faints or the condition is removed. Understanding how Poisoned works, which cards utilize it, and how to counteract it is crucial for effective gameplay.

What is Poisoned in Pokémon TCG Pocket?

Poisoned is a Special Condition inflicting 10 HP damage at the end of each round. This damage is calculated during the round's Checkup phase and persists until cured or the Pokémon faints. Unlike some effects, it doesn't resolve automatically or through chance. While it can coexist with other Special Conditions, it doesn't stack with additional Poison effects; a Pokémon only takes 10 HP damage per turn regardless of how many times Poisoned is applied. However, this status can be exploited by cards benefiting from a poisoned opponent, such as Muk, which gains a significant damage boost.

Which Cards Inflict Poisoned?

In the Genetic Apex expansion, five cards can inflict the Poisoned status: Weezing, Grimer, Nidoking, Tentacruel, and Venomoth. Grimer stands out as a 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-type deck builders, exploring Pokémon Pocket's Rental Decks is recommended. Koga's Rental Deck, featuring Grimer and Arbok, provides an excellent starting point.

How to Cure 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, mitigating damage but not curing the Poisoned status.

Building a Poison Deck

While not a top-tier archetype, a strong Poison deck can be built around the Grimer, Arbok, and Muk synergy. The strategy revolves around swiftly poisoning opponents with Grimer, trapping them with Arbok, and maximizing Muk's damage against poisoned foes.

Here's a sample decklist leveraging these synergies:

Poisoned Decklist

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