When Pokémon TCG Pocket first launched, the meta quickly became dominated by a select few decks, with one centered around Misty and water-type Pokémon standing out due to its potential to overpower opponents early on, largely dependent on the outcome of coin flips.
Despite three expansions having been released since the game's launch, the meta has not shifted away from Misty decks as one might expect. Instead, the latest expansion has introduced a new card that further bolsters the strength of Misty decks, leading to widespread frustration among players.
Some variety would be appreciated
byu/Mizter_Man inPTCGP
For context, Misty decks aren't necessarily the most powerful in the game. The issue lies in the luck-based nature of Misty, which can make losing to them feel particularly frustrating. Misty, a Supporter card, allows players to select a water-type Pokémon and flip coins until they land on tails, attaching a water-type energy to the chosen Pokémon for every heads flipped. This could result in attaching 0 energy, making the card a wasted slot, or attaching numerous energies, potentially enabling a turn-one win or powering up strong cards before the opponent can defend.
Why would they ever make a card like this?
byu/EfficientTrainer3206 inPTCGP
The situation has worsened with subsequent expansions that have introduced cards enhancing Misty's effectiveness. Mythical Island added Vaporeon, which can move the bonus energy freely between water-types. Space-Time Smackdown introduced Manaphy, adding even more water energy to the board. Both expansions also brought powerful water-type Pokémon like Palkia ex and Gyarados ex, keeping water decks at the top of the meta.
DeNa, What the Heck are You Doing?
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The latest expansion, Triumphant Light, has introduced another card, Irida, making Misty decks even more formidable. Irida, another Supporter card, can heal 40 damage from each Pokémon with water-type energy attached, allowing water decks to stage significant comebacks. Previously, grass-type decks were known for healing, but Irida shifts this advantage to water decks.
Some Pokémon TCG experts suggest that Irida's introduction might be a strategic move by developer DeNA to force players to make tough choices about which Supporters to include in their 20-card decks. However, many skilled deckbuilders have found ways to incorporate both Misty and Irida.
Three days away… what will you all be playing?
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As a major event approaches in Pokémon TCG Pocket, where players can earn rewards for winning streaks in online competitive mode, water decks are expected to dominate. The coveted gold profile badge, awarded for a five-match win streak, is a challenging achievement, especially when facing decks capable of quick sweeps and resilient comebacks.
Given the current state of the meta, players might consider adopting a water deck themselves to compete effectively in this event and beyond.
