Paralyzed Pokemon: Ability & Cards Explained

This guide explores the Paralyze condition in Pokémon TCG Pocket, detailing its mechanics, counters, and optimal deck building strategies. The guide is structured to answer key questions about Paralyzed Pokémon.

Quick Links

• What is Paralyzed in Pokémon TCG Pocket?
• Which Cards Inflict Paralysis?
• How to Cure Paralysis
• Building a Paralyze Deck

Pokémon TCG Pocket faithfully recreates the Paralyzed status effect from the physical card game, albeit with minor adjustments. This guide provides a complete overview of this Special Condition, covering its functionality, removal methods, and effective deck-building techniques.

What is Paralyzed in Pokémon TCG Pocket?

The Paralyzed condition immobilizes the opponent's Active Pokémon for a single turn, preventing both attacks and retreats. This effect automatically dissipates at the start of the opponent's next Checkup phase.

Paralyzed vs. Asleep

Both Paralyze and Asleep prevent attacks and retreats. However, Paralyze automatically resolves after the next Checkup, while Asleep requires a coin flip (heads) or strategic counterplay (like evolution or forced retreat) to cure.

Paralyzed in Pocket vs. Physical TCG

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

Which Cards Inflict Paralysis?

In the Genetic Apex expansion, only three Pokémon can inflict Paralysis: Pincurchin, Elektross, and Articuno. All three rely on a coin flip, making Paralysis a somewhat unpredictable effect.

How to Cure Paralysis?

Four methods exist to remove the Paralyzed condition:

1. Time: The effect naturally expires at the start of your next turn.
2. Evolution: Evolving the Paralyzed Pokémon instantly cures it.
3. Retreat: Retreating the Pokémon removes the condition (bench Pokémon cannot have Special Conditions).
4. Support Cards: Currently, only Koga offers a targeted counter (effective against Weezing or Muk).

Building a Paralyze Deck

Paralysis alone is insufficient for a competitive deck. Combining it with Asleep, such as using Articuno & Frosmoth, significantly enhances its effectiveness. This strategy utilizes Articuno, Frosmoth, and Wigglytuff ex to inflict both conditions.

Sample Paralyze-Asleep Deck List

This deck combines the chance-based paralysis with the strategic advantage of the sleep condition for a more consistent gameplay. Remember that the effectiveness of a paralysis strategy relies heavily on the coin flip mechanic.