Pokemon TCG Pocket: Paralyzed, Explained (& All Cards with ‘Paralyze’ Ability)

This guide explores the Paralysis effect in Pokémon TCG Pocket, detailing its mechanics, cures, and optimal deck building strategies.

Paralyzed: A Special Condition Explained

The Paralysis condition immobilizes an opponent's Active Pokémon for a single turn, preventing attacks and retreats. It automatically resolves at the start of the opponent's next Checkup phase.

Paralyzed vs. Asleep

Both Paralysis and Sleep prevent attacks and retreats. However, Paralysis automatically resolves, while Sleep requires a coin flip or specific counter-strategies (like evolving or retreating the Pokémon) for recovery.

Pokémon TCG Pocket vs. Physical PTCG

Unlike the physical TCG, which features cards like Full Heal to remove Paralysis, Pokémon TCG Pocket currently lacks direct counter-cards. The core mechanic remains consistent; a Paralyzed Pokémon is incapacitated for one turn.

Pokémon with Paralysis Abilities

Currently, only three Genetic Apex cards inflict Paralysis: Pincurchin, Elektross, and Articuno. Each requires a successful coin flip to apply the effect, making it a less reliable deck-building foundation.

Recovering from Paralysis

Four methods exist to cure Paralysis:

1. Automatic Resolution: The effect ends at the start of your next turn.
2. Evolution: Evolving a Paralyzed Pokémon immediately removes the condition.
3. Retreat: Retreating the Pokémon removes the effect (as Bench Pokémon cannot have Special Conditions). Cards like Koga can force a retreat.
4. Support Cards: Currently, only Koga offers a direct counter, but only for Weezing or Muk. Future expansions may introduce more options.

Building a Successful Paralyze Deck

Paralysis alone is insufficient for a competitive deck. Combining it with Sleep creates a stronger strategy. An effective combination uses Articuno & Frosmoth, leveraging their attacks to inflict both conditions. The following decklist provides a starting point:

Sample Paralyze/Sleep Deck

This guide offers a foundation for understanding and utilizing the Paralysis effect within the Pokémon TCG Pocket meta. Remember that the effectiveness of any strategy depends on adapting to the current game environment and evolving your deck accordingly.