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Paralyzing Poké Power: Paralyzed in TCG Pocket Explained

by Sophia Jan 10,2025

This guide explores the Paralyze effect in Pokémon TCG Pocket, detailing its mechanics, cures, and potential deck-building strategies.

Paralyze: Immobilizing Your Opponent

Paralyzed Effect

The Paralyze 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 Checkup phase.

Paralyze vs. Asleep

Both Paralyze and Asleep prevent attacks and retreats. However, Paralyze resolves automatically, while Asleep requires a coin flip or specific counter-strategies for recovery.

Pokémon TCG Pocket vs. Physical TCG

Unlike the physical TCG, where cards like Full Heal remove Paralysis, Pokémon TCG Pocket currently lacks direct counter-cards. The core mechanic remains consistent: a Paralyzed Pokémon is inactive for one turn.

Pokémon with Paralyze Abilities

Pokémon with Paralyze

Currently, only three Genetic Apex cards inflict Paralysis: Pincurchin, Elektross, and Articuno. Each uses a coin flip, making consistent Paralysis unreliable.

Curing Paralysis

Curing Paralysis

Four methods exist to remove Paralysis:

  1. Time: The effect ends automatically at the start of your next turn.
  2. Evolution: Evolving the Paralyzed Pokémon instantly cures it.
  3. Retreat: Retreating removes the condition (as Bench Pokémon cannot have Special Conditions). Cards like Koga can facilitate this.
  4. Support Cards: Currently, only Koga offers direct counter-play, but only under specific circumstances (Weezing or Muk).

Building a Paralyze Deck

Paralyze Deck Example

Paralysis alone is insufficient for a strong deck. Combining it with Asleep creates a more effective strategy. An Articuno & Frosmoth deck, leveraging Articuno, Frosmoth, and Wigglytuff ex, offers a potent combination of both conditions.

Sample Paralyze-Asleep Deck

Card Quantity
Wigglypuff ex 2
Jigglypuff 2
Snom 2
Frosmoth 2
Articuno 2
Misty 2
Sabrina 2
X Speed 2
Professor's Research 2
Poke Ball 2

This provides a framework for a Paralyze-focused deck in Pokémon TCG Pocket. Remember that the reliance on coin flips remains a significant factor.