Pokemon TCG Pocket: Understanding Poison Effects and Cards

***Pokemon Pocket*** brings the thrill of the physical *Pokemon Trading Card Game* into the digital realm, including the strategic use of Special Conditions like Poisoned. When a Pokemon is afflicted with this condition, it loses 10 HP at the end of each round, which can be a game-changer if not addressed. Understanding how Poisoned works, which cards can apply this effect, how to cure it, and the best decks utilizing this mechanic is essential for mastering *Pokemon TCG Pocket*. This guide delves into all these aspects, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of Poisoned in the game.

What Is 'Poisoned' in Pokemon TCG Pocket?

Poisoned is a Special Condition that causes an Active Pokemon to lose 10 HP at the end of each round. This effect is assessed during the Checkup phase of each round. Unlike some conditions that may resolve through coin flips or automatically, Poisoned persists until the afflicted Pokemon is either cured or knocked out. Importantly, Poisoned does not stack; even if a Pokemon is hit with multiple Poison effects, it will still only lose 10 HP per turn. However, savvy players can use this to their advantage with cards like Muk, which deals an additional +50 DMG to Poisoned opponents.

Which Cards Have the Poisoned Ability?

In the Genetic Apex expansion, you have several options for applying Poisoned:

• Weezing
• Grimer
• Nidoking
• Tentacruel
• Venomoth

Among these, Grimer stands out as the most accessible, being a Basic Pokemon that can Poison with just one Energy. Weezing also offers a powerful option with its ability, Gas Leak, which applies Poisoned without needing Energy, though it requires Weezing to be in the Active slot. For those new to Poison decks, consider starting with Koga’s Rental Deck, which features key Poison cards like Grimer and Arbok.

How Do You Cure Poisoned?

There are several strategies to mitigate the effects of Poisoned:

1. Evolution: Evolving the Poisoned Pokemon will remove the Poisoned condition.
2. Retreat: Moving the Poisoned Pokemon to the bench will halt the HP loss.
3. Item Cards: While cards like Potion can heal HP lost to Poison, they don’t cure the condition itself, merely prolonging your Pokemon's time in the fight.

What Is the Best Poison Deck?

Although Poison decks may not dominate the current Pokemon Pocket meta, a well-constructed lineup featuring Grimer, Arbok, and Muk can be very effective. The strategy focuses on quickly poisoning opponents with Grimer, trapping them with Arbok, and then hitting hard with Muk, which can deal up to 120 DMG to Poisoned foes.

Here’s how you can build a competitive Poison deck:

Poisoned Deck Details

For alternative strategies, consider the Jigglypuff (PA) and Wigglytuff ex lineup as a backup plan, or opt for the Nidoking Evolution lineup (Nidoran, Nidorano, Nidoking) for a slow-build, high-damage Poison deck.