Unveiling Pokémon TCG's Poisoned Pocket: Cards with 'Poison' Ability

This guide explores the effects of the Poisoned status condition in Pokémon TCG Pocket. We'll cover what Poisoned does, which Pokémon inflict it, how to cure it, and strategies for building effective Poison decks.

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 is knocked out. While it can stack with other Special Conditions, multiple Poisoned effects don't increase the damage beyond 10 HP per turn. However, some Pokémon benefit from opponents being Poisoned, dealing increased damage.

Pokémon with the Poisoned Ability

Several Pokémon in the Genetic Apex expansion can inflict the Poisoned status:

• Weezing (via its Gas Leak ability)
• Grimer (a quick and efficient option)
• Nidoking
• Tentacruel
• Venomoth

Grimer is particularly effective as a Basic Pokémon that poisons with a single Energy. Weezing, while requiring the Pokémon to be active, also inflicts Poisoned without needing Energy.

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 Poisoned outright.

Building a Poison Deck

While not a top-tier archetype, a strong Poison deck can be built around Grimer, Arbok, and Muk. This strategy focuses on quickly poisoning opponents with Grimer, trapping them with Arbok, and using Muk's increased damage against Poisoned opponents. Other options include Weezing and Koga for additional control.

A sample Poison deck might include:

Alternative strategies could incorporate the Jigglypuff/Wigglytuff ex line or the Nidoking evolution line for a slower, higher-damage approach. Experiment with Rental Decks to find your preferred Poison strategy.