Unconventional Strategy Counters Pokémon TCG Pocket’s Meta Decks

In the competitive arena of Pokémon TCG Pocket, unconventional strategies are emerging as effective countermeasures against formidable decks. One particularly intriguing approach involves circumventing the Active Pokémon altogether, which can potentially dismantle several powerful setups.

The recent shifts in gameplay dynamics, particularly with the introduction of Druddigon during the Mythical Island era, have transformed evolution decks’ reliability. Druddigon’s Rough Skin Ability allows it to retaliate against any Pokémon that dares to attack, effectively serving as a defensive barrier.

As a result, trainers frequenting the PTCGP Reddit are exploring the use of indirect attackers to exploit weaknesses in dominant strategies, such as Gyarados ex and Golem, which heavily rely on evolutions. By bypassing the conventional focus on Active Pokémon, these trainers are redefining gameplay tactics to gain an advantage.

Finally pulled a second Gyarados and I see these guys in my next 8 games straight by u/AnyViVonners in PTCGP

Exploiting the Bench: A Tactical Shift in Pokémon Pocket

Pokémon such as Hitmonlee, Electabuzz, and Zebstrika possess abilities that allow them to target the Bench directly. This means they can effectively bypass the Active Pokémon, negating the threat posed by a counter like Druddigon or Poliwhirl.

Moreover, hitting the Bench can lead to one-hit knockouts (OHKO) against essential Basic Pokémon, such as Magikarp, which plays a crucial role in the Gyarados ex & Misty synergy. Unfortunately, Giovanni’s effect does not enhance this strategy, as it is limited to boosting attacks on Active Pokémon—a limitation that could have otherwise helped eliminate key threats like Geodude and Snivy, capable of withstanding 70 HP.

Cited as a frontrunner in the current Pokémon Pocket meta, Gyarados ex boasts impressive damage output and durability. However, the requirement of having a Magikarp on the field for just one turn creates a viable target for these indirect attacks.

As Druddigon continues to solidify its presence in the game, the necessity of employing indirect attackers becomes increasingly critical in navigating around such defensive walls. This tactical evolution is particularly relevant in addressing the ongoing dominance of Water-type decks, which have maintained a strong foothold since the game’s inception.

Source & Images