This guide explores the effects of the "Poisoned" status condition in Pokémon TCG Pocket. We'll cover what Poisoned does, which cards inflict it, how to cure it, and strategies for building effective Poison decks.
What is "Poisoned" in Pokémon TCG Pocket?
Poisoned is a Special Condition that inflicts 10 HP damage at the end of each round. Unlike some conditions, it doesn't disappear automatically and persists until cured or the Pokémon is knocked out. While it can combine with other Special Conditions, multiple Poisoned effects don't stack; a Pokémon only loses 10 HP per turn regardless of how many times it's poisoned. However, this status can be exploited by certain Pokémon, such as Muk, for increased damage.
Which Cards Inflict Poisoned?
In the Genetic Apex expansion, five cards inflict the Poisoned status: Weezing, Grimer, Nidoking, Tentacruel, and Venomoth. Grimer stands out as an efficient Basic Pokémon, poisoning opponents with a single Energy. Weezing offers another strong option, using its "Gas Leak" ability (no Energy needed) while active.
For Poison-themed decks, explore the game's Rental Decks. Koga's deck, featuring Grimer and Arbok, is a great starting point.
Curing Poisoned
There are three ways to remove the Poisoned status:
- Evolution: Evolving a Poisoned Pokémon removes the condition.
- Retreat: Moving a Poisoned Pokémon to the bench prevents further HP loss.
- Item Cards: Cards like Potion heal HP, but don't directly cure Poisoned; they only improve survivability.
Building a Poison Deck
While not a top-tier archetype, a strong Poison deck can be built around the Grimer, Arbok, and Muk synergy. The strategy focuses on quickly poisoning opponents with Grimer, trapping them with Arbok, and then using Muk's increased damage against poisoned opponents.
Here's a sample decklist focusing on this synergy:
Sample Poison Deck
| Card | Quantity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Grimer | x2 | Applies Poisoned |
| Ekans | x2 | Evolves into Arbok |
| Arbok | x2 | Locks opponent's Active Pokémon |
| Muk | x2 | Deals increased damage to Poisoned Pokémon |
| Koffing | x2 | Evolves into Weezing |
| Weezing | x2 | Applies Poisoned via ability |
| Koga | x2 | Returns Weezing or Muk to hand |
| Poké Ball | x2 | Draws a Basic Pokémon |
| Professor's Research | x2 | Draws two cards |
| Sabrina | x1 | Forces opponent's Active Pokémon to Retreat |
| X Speed | x1 | Reduces Retreat cost |
Alternative strategies include using Jigglypuff (PA) and Wigglytuff ex, or a slower, high-damage approach with the Nidoking evolution line (Nidoran, Nidorino, Nidoking).
