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

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

Paralyze: Immobilizing Your Opponent

Paralyze is a Special Condition that prevents the opponent's Active Pokémon from attacking or retreating for one turn. This effect automatically ends at the start of your next turn (after the opponent's Checkup phase).

Paralyze vs. Asleep

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

Paralyze in Pocket vs. Physical TCG

The core Paralyze mechanic remains consistent between the physical and digital games. While Full Heal (and similar cards) remove Paralysis in the physical game, Pokémon TCG Pocket currently lacks direct counter-cards.

Pokémon with Paralyze Abilities

Currently, only three cards in the Genetic Apex expansion inflict Paralyze: Pincurchin, Elektross, and Articuno. Each uses a coin flip, making it a chance-based effect rather than a guaranteed strategy.

Recovering from Paralyze

Four methods exist to cure Paralysis:

1. Time: The effect automatically ends after the opponent's next turn.
2. Evolution: Evolving the Paralyzed Pokémon instantly 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.

Building a Paralyze Deck

Paralyze alone is unreliable. Combining it with Asleep creates a stronger strategy. A potent combination uses Articuno & Frosmoth, leveraging their attacks to inflict both conditions. Wigglytuff ex further enhances this strategy.

Sample Paralyze/Asleep Deck List

This deck utilizes the synergy between Paralyze and Asleep for a more effective gameplay approach. Remember, the effectiveness of a Paralyze deck relies heavily on the coin flip mechanic.