Paralyzed Pokémon Pocket: Abilities and Card Guide

This guide explores the Paralyze effect in Pokémon TCG Pocket, a digital adaptation of the popular card game. The guide covers the mechanics of Paralysis, how to cure it, and strategies for building a deck around it.

What is Paralyzed in Pokémon TCG Pocket?

Paralyzed Effect

Paralyzed is a Special Condition that prevents an opponent's Active Pokémon from attacking or retreating for one turn. This effect automatically ends before your next turn begins.

Paralyzed vs. Asleep

Both Paralyzed and Asleep prevent attacks and retreats. However, Paralyzed resolves automatically, while Asleep requires a coin flip or specific counter-strategies to cure.

Paralyzed in Pocket vs. Physical TCG

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

Which Pokémon Inflict Paralysis?

Pokémon with Paralysis Ability

Currently, only Pincurchin, Elektross, and Articuno in the Genetic Apex expansion can inflict Paralysis. Each relies on a coin flip, making it a somewhat unreliable tactic.

How to Cure Paralysis

Curing Paralysis

Four methods exist:

Wait: Paralysis automatically ends at the start of your next turn.
Evolve: Evolving the Paralyzed Pokémon instantly removes the effect.
Retreat: Retreating the Pokémon removes the effect, as Bench Pokémon cannot have Special Conditions.
Support Cards: Currently, only Koga offers a counter, but only under specific circumstances (Weezing or Muk).

Building a Paralyze Deck

Paralyze Deck Example

Paralysis alone is not a strong deck foundation. Combining it with Asleep, as in an Articuno & Frosmoth deck, significantly improves its effectiveness. A sample decklist is provided below: