Pokémon TCG: Pocket Poison: Unveiling 'Poison' Ability Cards

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 that inflicts 10 HP damage at the end of each round. Unlike some conditions, it doesn't disappear automatically; it persists until cured or the Pokémon is knocked out. While it stacks with other Special Conditions, multiple Poisoned effects on a single Pokémon don't increase the damage beyond 10 HP per turn. However, some Pokémon, like Muk, benefit from this status, dealing increased damage to poisoned opponents.

Pokémon with Poison Abilities

Several cards can inflict the Poisoned status. Key examples from the Genetic Apex expansion include Grimer (efficient Basic Pokémon), Weezing (ability-based, requiring no Energy but needing to be active), Nidoking, Tentacruel, and Venomoth.

Consider using rental decks like Koga's deck (featuring Grimer and Arbok) as a starting point for building your own Poison strategy.

Curing Poisoned

There are three ways to remove the Poisoned condition:

Evolution: Evolving a poisoned Pokémon removes the effect.
Retreat: Switching out the poisoned Pokémon prevents further damage.
Item Cards: Cards like Potion heal HP, but don't cure Poisoned directly; they only buy time.

Building a Poison Deck

While not a top-tier strategy, a strong Poison deck can be built around the synergy of Grimer, Arbok, and Muk. Grimer quickly poisons opponents, Arbok prevents switching, and Muk capitalizes on the poisoned status for significant damage. Alternative Poison strategies might involve the Nidoking evolution line or Jigglypuff/Wigglytuff ex.

Here's a sample deck focusing on this synergy:

Card	Quantity	Effect
Grimer	x2	Applies Poisoned
Ekans	x2	Evolves into Arbok
Arbok	x2	Locks in the opponent's Active Pokémon
Muk	x2	Deals 120 DMG to Poisoned Pokémon
Koffing	x2	Evolves into Weezing
Weezing	x2	Applies Poisoned with an Ability
Koga	x2	Returns Active Weezing or Muk to your hand
Poké Ball	x2	Draws a Basic Pokémon
Professor's Research	x2	Draws two cards
Sabrina	x1	Forces opponent's Active Pokémon to Retreat
X Speed	x1	Reduces Retreat cost

This guide provides a foundation for understanding and utilizing Poison strategies within Pokémon TCG Pocket. Remember to adapt and experiment to find what works best for your playstyle.