Pokémon TCG: Paralyze Ability Explored in Pocket Edition

This guide explores the Paralyze effect in Pokémon TCG Pocket, a digital adaptation of the popular card game. The guide covers what Paralyze does, how to cure it, which cards inflict it, and strategies for building a Paralyze deck.

What is Paralyzed in Pokémon TCG Pocket?

Paralyzed is a Special Condition that prevents the opponent's Active Pokémon from attacking or retreating for one turn. The effect automatically wears off before the opponent's next turn.

Paralyzed vs. Asleep

Both Paralyze and Asleep prevent attacks and retreats. However, Paralyze resolves automatically, while Asleep requires a coin flip or specific card effects to cure.

Paralyzed in Pokémon Pocket vs. Physical TCG

The core mechanic of Paralyze remains consistent between the physical and digital games. Unlike the physical game, Pokémon TCG Pocket currently lacks Trainer cards that specifically counter Paralyze.

Which Cards Inflict Paralyze?

Currently, only three cards in the Genetic Apex expansion inflict Paralyze: Pincurchin, Elektross, and Articuno. Each uses a coin flip, making it a somewhat unreliable effect.

How to Cure Paralyze

Four methods exist to remove the Paralyzed condition:

1. Time: It automatically ends at the start of your next turn.
2. Evolution: Evolving the Paralyzed Pokémon removes the effect.
3. Retreat: Retreating the Pokémon removes the effect (as Bench Pokémon cannot have Special Conditions).
4. Support Cards: Currently, only Koga's effect works against Paralysis, but only under specific conditions (Weezing or Muk).

The Best Paralyze Deck?

Paralyze alone isn't a strong deck archetype. Combining it with Asleep, however, offers a more viable strategy. A sample Articuno & Frosmoth deck leveraging both conditions is detailed below.

Sample Paralyze-Asleep Deck

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the Paralyze effect in Pokémon TCG Pocket. Remember that the effectiveness of a Paralyze strategy heavily relies on chance and synergy with other effects.