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

This guide explores the Paralyze condition in Pokémon TCG Pocket, detailing its mechanics, cures, and potential deck-building strategies.

What is Paralyzed in Pokémon TCG Pocket?

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

Paralyzed vs. Asleep

Both Paralyzed and Asleep prevent attacks and retreats. However, Paralyzed automatically resolves, while Asleep requires a coin flip or specific card effects for recovery.

Paralyzed in Pokémon Pocket vs. Physical PTCG

Unlike the physical Pokémon TCG, where cards like Full Heal can remove Paralysis, Pokémon TCG Pocket currently lacks direct counter-Paralysis cards. The core mechanic remains the same: a Paralyzed Pokémon is incapacitated for one turn.

Which Cards Inflict Paralysis?

Currently, only three Genetic Apex cards inflict Paralysis: Pincurchin, Elektross, and Articuno. Each uses a coin flip, making it a somewhat unreliable strategy.

How to Cure Paralysis

Four methods exist:

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

Building a Paralyze Deck

Paralysis alone isn't a strong deck archetype. Combining it with Asleep, however, offers synergy. An Articuno & Frosmoth deck leveraging both conditions, along with Wigglytuff ex, provides a viable strategy. A sample decklist might include:

This guide provides a foundation for understanding and utilizing the Paralyze condition in Pokémon TCG Pocket. Remember that reliance on coin flips introduces inherent randomness, requiring strategic planning to mitigate this weakness.