Paralyzed Pokémon: Understanding the 'Paralyze' Ability

This guide explores the Paralyze condition in Pokémon TCG Pocket, explaining its mechanics and strategies.

Paralyzed: A Special Condition

Paralyze immobilizes an opponent's Active Pokémon for a turn, preventing attacks and retreats. It automatically resolves after the opponent's next Checkup phase.

Paralyze vs. Asleep

Both Paralyze and Asleep prevent attacks and retreats, but Asleep requires a coin flip or specific strategies to cure, unlike Paralyze, which automatically clears after the next Checkup.

Paralyze in Pokémon Pocket vs. Physical TCG

The core Paralyze mechanic remains consistent between the physical and digital games. However, while the physical TCG offers Trainer cards like Full Heal to counter Paralysis, Pokémon TCG Pocket currently lacks direct counters.

Pokémon with Paralyze Abilities

Currently, only Pincurchin, Elektross, and Articuno in the Genetic Apex expansion can inflict Paralysis. Their attacks rely on a coin flip, making this strategy somewhat unreliable.

Curing Paralysis

Four methods exist to remove the Paralyze condition:

1. Automatic Resolution: The condition ends at the start of your next turn.
2. Evolution: Evolving the affected Pokémon immediately cures Paralysis.
3. Retreat: Retreating the Pokémon removes the condition (as Bench Pokémon cannot have Special Conditions).
4. Support Cards: Currently, only Koga's support card offers a counter, but this is limited to Weezing or Muk.

Building a Paralyze Deck

Paralyze alone is not a strong deck archetype. Combining it with the Asleep condition, such as using Articuno & Frosmoth, creates a more effective strategy. This combination uses Articuno, Frosmoth, and Wigglytuff ex to inflict both conditions. A sample decklist is provided below.

This enhanced strategy leverages the combined effects of Paralysis and Sleep to hinder the opponent's actions.