Recent discussions within the Pokémon TCG Pocket community have brought to light a significant issue concerning the rules governing draws. Many players are expressing frustration over what they perceive as an inequitable system that culminates in unfair resolutions for tied games.
Understanding the Points System in Pokémon TCG Pocket
Distinct from the traditional tabletop Pokémon game, Pokémon TCG Pocket employs a points-based scoring system. Players earn 1 Point for KO’ing a basic Pokémon and 2 Points when they defeat an ex Pokémon. Currently, the absence of alternate win conditions—akin to an Exodia strategy—means the game’s focus remains on winning battles.
Ties in Pokémon TCG Pocket
This unique points structure has led to situations where both players can simultaneously attain 3 Points. This can occur through counter damage inflicted by abilities like Druddigon’s Rough Skin. Insights shared on the PTCGP Reddit highlight the perplexing nature of tie-breaking protocols.
I won a game where my opponent also scored 3 points by u/LATORR1g in PTCGP
Controversies Surrounding Game Resolution
Interestingly, a match will be declared a tie if both players’ Active Pokémon are knocked out while they either have Pokémon left on their Bench or none at all. This can occur with cards like Druddigon and Poliwrath from Genetic Apex, which utilize counter chip damage effectively. Conversely, if one player has at least one Pokémon on the Bench and the other does not, the former is declared the winner, irrespective of who delivered the final blow.
Moreover, a tie may still be pronounced even if one player achieves four Points by scoring with two regular Pokémon and subsequently knocking out an ex Pokémon, as long as both Active Pokémon are knocked out in tandem and neither player has Pokémon on their Bench.
The Need for Rule Amendments
This method of determining a winner raises concerns about fairness. If both Active Pokémon are simultaneously knocked out and three Points are scored, it stands to reason that the outcome should be a draw. The presence or absence of a Pokémon on the Bench at the game’s end should not dictate victory, as it has no bearing on the immediate battle outcome.
As Pokémon like Druddigon become increasingly influential in the competitive meta, players hope to see these rule discrepancies addressed in future updates. The potential for a single Pokémon on the Bench to sway game results underscores the necessity for clearer, more equitable rules.
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