Pokémon TCG: Paralyze Ability: Cards & Guide

This guide explores the Paralyze effect in Pokémon TCG Pocket, detailing its mechanics, counters, and potential deck strategies.

What is Paralyzed in Pokémon TCG Pocket?

The Paralyzed status prevents an opponent's Active Pokémon from attacking or retreating for one turn. It automatically resolves at the start of the next player's turn (after the Checkup phase).

Paralyzed vs. Asleep

Both Paralyzed and Asleep prevent attacks and retreats. However, Asleep requires a coin flip to cure, or can be resolved through evolution or retreat, while Paralyzed automatically ends after the Checkup phase.

Paralyzed in Pokémon Pocket vs. Physical TCG

Unlike the physical TCG where cards like Full Heal can remove Paralysis, Pokémon TCG Pocket currently lacks direct counter-cards. The core mechanic—inhibition of attack and retreat for one turn—remains consistent.

Which Cards Inflict Paralysis?

Currently, only three Genetic Apex cards inflict Paralysis: Pincurchin, Elektross, and Articuno. Each uses a coin flip, making it a chance-based effect.

How to Cure Paralysis

Four methods exist:

1. Time: The effect automatically ends at the start of your next turn.
2. Evolution: Evolving the Paralyzed Pokémon removes the effect.
3. Retreat: Retreating the Pokémon removes the effect (as Bench Pokémon cannot have Special Conditions).
4. Support Cards: Currently, only Koga (under specific conditions with Weezing or Muk) offers a counter.

Best Paralyze Deck?

Paralysis alone isn't a strong deck archetype. Combining it with Asleep, such as using Articuno & Frosmoth (leveraging Articuno, Frosmoth, and Wigglytuff ex attacks), creates a more effective strategy.

Sample Paralyze/Asleep Deck

This guide provides a foundation for understanding and utilizing the Paralyze effect in Pokémon TCG Pocket. Remember that the effectiveness of any strategy depends on the current meta and your card collection.