Pokemon TCG Pocket: Poisoned, Explained (& All Cards with ‘Poison’ Ability)

This guide dives into the intricacies of Poisoned status in Pokémon TCG Pocket, a Special Condition mirroring the physical card game. This guide covers how Poisoned works, which cards inflict it, how to counter it, and strategies for building effective Poison decks.

Quick Links:

• What is Poisoned in Pokémon TCG Pocket?
• Which Cards Inflict Poisoned?
• How to Cure Poisoned?
• Best Poison Decks?

Pokémon TCG Pocket incorporates Special Conditions like Poisoned, causing gradual HP loss to the affected Active Pokémon until cured or knocked out. Unlike some effects, it persists until actively removed.

What is Poisoned in Pokémon TCG Pocket?

Poisoned is a Special Condition inflicting 10 HP loss at the end of each round, calculated during the round Checkup. It doesn't vanish automatically; it continues until cured or the Pokémon faints. While it can combine with other Special Conditions, it doesn't stack with itself – only 10 HP is lost per turn regardless of multiple applications. However, this status can be exploited by certain Pokémon, like Muk, for increased damage.

Which Cards Inflict Poisoned?

Within the Genetic Apex expansion, five cards inflict the Poisoned status: Weezing, Grimer, Nidoking, Tentacruel, and Venomoth. Grimer stands out as a Basic Pokémon poisoning opponents with a single Energy. Weezing offers another strong option, using its "Gas Leak" ability (no Energy needed) while Active.

For Poison decks, explore Rental Decks, particularly Koga's deck featuring Grimer and Arbok.

How to Cure Poisoned?

Three methods exist to counter Poisoned:

1. Evolution: Evolving the affected Pokémon removes Poisoned.
2. Retreat: Moving the Poisoned Pokémon to the Bench halts HP loss.
3. Item Cards: Cards like Potion heal HP, extending survivability but not curing Poisoned itself.

Best Poison Decks?

Poison isn't a top-tier archetype, but a potent strategy uses the Grimer, Arbok, and Muk synergy. Grimer quickly poisons, Arbok traps, and Muk delivers up to 120 damage to poisoned opponents.

Below is a sample META deck built around this synergy:

Sample Poison Deck

Alternative strategies include Jigglypuff (PA) and Wigglytuff ex, or a slower, high-damage Nidoking evolution line (Nidoran, Nidorino, Nidoking).