Avoid These Two Ineffective Fighting-Type Pokémon TCG Cards

Optimizing Your Pokémon TCG Pocket Deck: Avoiding Common Pitfalls

In the ever-evolving world of Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) Pocket, crafting a well-balanced deck is vital for achieving victory. Due to the unique dynamics of Player vs. Player (PvP) interactions, seasoned players are now sharing insights on social media platforms, cautioning against the inclusion of several traditionally strong Pokémon in their competitive decks.

The Essence of PvP in Pokémon TCG Pocket

One of the standout features of Pokémon TCG Pocket is its PvP battles. Unlike the more methodical nature of tabletop gameplay, the app facilitates swift matches that can be played from virtually anywhere, making it accessible and appealing to a wider audience. This convenience has attracted both new players and veterans to embrace the mobile format.

Adapting to New Strategies

Despite the allure of this new format, long-time TCG veterans may experience challenges as they adapt. Cards characterized by low health points (HP), high energy requirements, or complex evolutionary chains can drastically hinder a player’s performance. Consequently, some of the once-beloved staples of traditional decks may prove detrimental in Pokémon TCG Pocket.

Case Study: Rhyhorn and Rhydon

A recent Reddit post has spotlighted two iconic Kanto Pokémon: Rhyhorn and Rhydon. While these Fighting-types are celebrated for their formidable attacks and robust defensive capabilities, their utility in the Pokémon TCG Pocket environment is being cast into doubt.

Is it just me, or are Rhyhorn and Rhydon significantly worse than most cards? by u/PsychoticHobo in PTCGP

Performance Metrics: A Closer Look

Despite their nostalgic value and historical significance—especially Rhydon, which holds the title of being the first Pokémon ever created—neither card currently measures up in Pokémon TCG Pocket. Rhyhorn boasts only 80 HP and requires three energy for its singular attack, while Rhydon fares little better with 120 HP and a four-energy attack cost. The consensus among players is clear: these cards should be avoided in competitive play unless used purely for nostalgic purposes.

Strategic Disadvantages

Even if Rhyhorn and Rhydon find a place on your bench, their high energy costs pose a significant hurdle. For example, Rhydon’s Horn Drill inflicts a maximum of 100 damage and is vulnerable to Grass-type Pokémon, positioning it at a disadvantage against prevalent meta threats like Venusaur ex. Player feedback reinforces this perspective, with many dubbing these cards as “unusable.”

Looking Ahead: Potential Future Improvements

Some community members expressed hope for the future, particularly with the possible introduction of Rhyperior or Rhyperior ex, which could reinvigorate the relevance of these cards in upcoming expansions.

Deck Building Strategies: Energy and Cost Considerations

Comparisons have also been drawn between Rhyhorn/Rhydon and the Seadra evolution line, which similarly suffers from prohibitive energy costs. This inconsistency can be leveraged by leading decks that employ energy acceleration with high HP ex cards. For instance, Pikachu ex requires a mere two energy to deal damage, while Mewtwo can synergize with Gardevoir’s abilities for swift attacks in as little as two turns.

Acknowledging Retreat Costs

Rhydon’s retreat cost of four energy further complicates its viability, making it one of the least flexible options in the Genetic Apex set. Once it’s on the battlefield, players often find themselves burdened by that energy investment, limiting tactical maneuvers.

Expanding Horizons in Genetic Apex

Fortunately, the Genetic Apex expansion provides a diverse array of alternative options for deck builds, featuring powerful combinations such as Zapdos ex with Heliolisk or the striking Mewtwo ex alongside Gardevoir. As Pokémon TCG Pocket continues to innovate, it is essential for players to adapt their strategies in alignment with the game’s fast-paced PvP format.

While leaving behind cherished favorites can be a tough decision, staying ahead in Pokémon TCG Pocket will ensure you remain competitive. Players can look forward to upcoming updates that may introduce fresh cards better suited to the dynamic landscape of competitive gameplay.

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