Exploring the Best Decks for EX Cards in Pokémon TCG Pocket
The Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) Pocket brings an exciting twist with the introduction of EX cards, noted for their distinctive abilities that can significantly impact gameplay. These highly coveted cards not only enhance strategic options but also offer players additional prize cards when knocked out. This article outlines optimal deck constructions for a variety of rare EX cards, from the fan-favorites Charizard and Pikachu to the adaptable Wigglytuff.
Players looking to excel can design decks focused on high-damage attacks, efficient energy management, and strategic status effects. These tailored builds will help you unlock the full potential of each card in the current competitive landscape.
Optimal Deck Builds for Each EX Card
1. Charizard EX
- Deck Composition: Pair Charizard EX with Moltres EX, which boasts the Inferno Dance ability, to generate energy swiftly. Ensure your deck includes the full Charizard evolution line for enhanced consistency.
Charizard’s Crimson Storm move delivers a remarkable 200 damage, potent enough to eliminate many Pokémon in a single strike. However, the cost of using this powerful attack—three Fire Energy—requires careful energy management. Make use of Moltres for energy replenishment, and consider including Rapidash or Heatmor as secondary options. Your trainer support should emphasize card draw and healing with Potions, X Speeds, Poke Balls, and Professor’s Research.
2. Mewtwo EX
- Deck Composition: Support Mewtwo EX with Gardevoir by including a couple of Ralts and Kirlia to amplify damage output.
Mewtwo EX can unleash powerful attacks early in the game, delivering up to 150 damage with Psydrive at the cost of discarding two Psychic Energy. Utilize Gardevoir’s Psy Shadow to keep Mewtwo’s energy topped up, making this combination a strong contender in competitive play. Ensure your trainers include essentials like Potions and Giovanni to maximize Mewtwo’s battle potential.
3. Pikachu EX
- Deck Composition: Enhance Pikachu’s damage output by including Voltorb, Electrode, and Zapdos EX.
Pikachu EX can rapidly amass damage, inflicting 30 damage per Lightning-type Pokémon on your bench. Including Zapdos EX grants extra durability, while trainer cards like Giovanni can provide additional reinforcement to help Pikachu secure victories against challenging foes. Alternate strategies may involve Zebstrika and Blitzle for varied support.
4. Marowak EX
- Deck Composition: Marowak EX synergizes best with Diglett and Dugtrio, which can help stall while gathering energy.
Marowak’s primary attack does 160 damage for a relatively low energy cost but carries the risk of dealing no damage on a coin flip. Use Dugtrio to absorb damage, while Sandshrew and Sandslash bolster your defenses. Include Potions and X Speeds in your trainer lineup for added flexibility.
5. Machamp EX
- Deck Composition: A combination of Machamp and Primeape grants diverse attacking options.
Capitalizing on offense, Machamp EX boasts immediate damage upon entering the field, with a hefty attack of 120 and 180 HP. Pair it with Primeape, which increases damage output when already damaged, forcing opponents into precarious positions. Employ trainers like Sabrina for enhanced attack efficiency.
6. Arcanine EX
- Deck Composition: Pair Arcanine with Ponyta and Rapidash for effective energy management.
While Arcanine EX offers good attack power, it may falter against Water decks. Use Rapidash for swift strikes while preparing Arcanine with appropriate support. Cards like Blaine can amplify damage when required, ensuring your deck remains versatile.
7. Venusaur EX
- Deck Composition: Combine Venusaur EX with Lilligant and Exeggutor for a cohesive Grass-type setup.
With robust 190 HP and the healing capability of Giant Bloom, Venusaur becomes a formidable tank. Lilligant’s Leaf Supply can power Venusaur from the bench, ensuring that it remains engaged in battle. Trainer support can include healing options like Erica and Potions to further extend its survivability.
8. Exeggutor EX
- Deck Composition: Utilize Exeggutor alongside other Grass and Normal types to create a disruptive strategy.
Exeggutor’s low-cost attacks keep relentless pressure on adversaries, especially when complemented by Victreebel’s ability to manipulate opponents’ active Pokémon. Equip the deck with trainers like X Speeds for consistent aggression and survivability.
9. Zapdos EX
- Deck Composition: Pair Zapdos EX with Blitzle and Zebstrika for fast, low-energy attacks.
Zapdos EX’s capability to deal damage with minimal setup makes it a powerful asset. Consider incorporating Jolteon for further Lightning-type synergy and trainer cards like Sabrina and Giovanni to increase damage potential.
10. Articuno EX
- Deck Composition: Articuno EX works seamlessly with Misty and Starmie EX for a robust water-based strategy.
Articuno proves useful with high HP while delivering significant damage. With Misty as a key trainer, you can charge Articuno efficiently in one turn for rapid offensive capabilities.
11. Blastoise EX
- Deck Composition: Enhance Blastoise EX with Articuno or Starmie EX for a potent water-themed deck.
Blastoise’s powerful Hydro Bazooka requires significant energy investment but can dominate with proper setup. Use Articuno to absorb damage while letting Blastoise build energy on the bench, pairing with trainers like Misty and Giovanni for optimal performance.
12. Starmie EX
- Deck Composition: Starmie EX thrives alongside aggressive Water-type Pokémon such as Greninja, Psyduck, and Golduck.
Starmie’s Hydro Splash provides consistent damage output for just two Water Energy, particularly advantageous when paired with Greninja for targeting vulnerable bench Pokémon. This deck’s low retreat costs and quick setup allow it to maintain a pressure-oriented approach against opponents.
13. Wigglytuff EX
- Deck Composition: Wigglytuff’s versatility shines with Koga’s stall-oriented deck featuring Weezing and Muk.
Wigglytuff’s ability to put the opponent’s active Pokémon to sleep consistently provides ample opportunities for control. Combine it with Weezing’s poisoning effect for added pressure, utilizing trainers like Potions and X Speeds to enhance survivability.
14. Gengar EX
- Deck Composition: Gengar pairs effectively with Hypno or can be a suitable backup for Mewtwo EX.
Gengar’s unique ability to block Supporters stifles your opponent’s key strategies, creating opportunities for control. Deploy Gengar early alongside Hypno for time management, with Mewtwo EX available for offensive reinforcements as situations require.
15. Moltres EX
- Deck Composition: Moltres EX aligns well with Charizard EX or Centiskorch for fiery strategies.
Moltres’ Inferno Dance is crucial for fueling Charizard or other Fire-types, functioning as an excellent energy source. Maintain Moltres in an active position until it is fully charged, then switch it out for your principal attacker. Use trainers like Giovanni to provide extra impact as needed.
Each of these decks emphasizes the unique strengths of their respective EX cards. While these recommendations serve as robust foundations, it’s essential to remain adaptable as the meta evolves. Experimenting with different combinations will allow you to discover synergies that align with your playstyle.
Pokémon TCG Pocket provides ample room for strategic innovation, encouraging you to refine your approaches and experiment with creative strategies. Good luck on your journey!
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