Palkia ex, introduced in the Space-Time Smackdown expansion set of Pokémon TCG Pocket, is a strong competitive card with impressive tanky stats, a relevant typing in the current meta, and potential for bench-sniping. Here’s an overview of the best deck builds to make the most of Palkia ex’s abilities.
Core Deck List
When building a deck around Palkia ex, combining it with Vaporeon, Manaphy, and Articuno ex creates synergy, boosting Energy Token control and damage output. Here’s the ideal card list:
Card Name | Quantity | Set | Obtained By |
---|---|---|---|
Palkia ex | 2 | Space-Time Smackdown | Space-Time Smackdown booster packs or Pack Points |
Eevee | 2 | Mythical Island | Mythical Island booster packs or Pack Points |
Vaporeon | 2 | Mythical Island | Mythical Island booster packs or Pack Points |
Manaphy | 2 | Space-Time Smackdown | Space-Time Smackdown booster packs or Pack Points |
Articuno ex | 1 | Genetic Apex | Genetic Apex booster packs or Pack Points |
Misty | 2 | Genetic Apex | Genetic Apex booster packs or Pack Points |
Professor’s Research | 2 | Promo-A | Shop Tickets |
Leaf | 2 | Mythical Island | Mythical Island booster packs or Pack Points |
Cyrus | 2 | Space-Time Smackdown | Space-Time Smackdown booster packs or Pack Points |
Poké Ball | 2 | Promo-A | Shop Tickets |
Rocky Helmet | 1 | Space-Time Smackdown | Space-Time Smackdown booster packs or Pack Points |
How the Deck Works
The deck’s centerpiece, Palkia ex, has the ability to dish out major damage with Dimensional Storm, dealing 150 damage to the opponent’s Active Pokémon and 20 damage to each of their Benched Pokémon.
However, Dimensional Storm requires a triple Energy discard, so the deck focuses on quickly Energizing Palkia ex, using cards like Manaphy, Vaporeon, and Misty to manage Energy Tokens.
Misty introduces a luck factor, offering potential for an early Dimensional Storm. If it succeeds, it can swiftly deal a huge blow to the opponent. For extra damage, Cyrus and Rocky Helmet work together to apply pressure, and Professor’s Research and Poké Ball provide the much-needed draw power.
If you have trouble getting Palkia ex into position, Articuno ex is an excellent backup, dealing hefty damage to both Active and Benched Pokémon, making it a strong secondary attacker.
Strengths and Weaknesses
This deck excels in damage output, with Palkia ex’s Dimensional Storm being a potential game-changer. Water-type decks are generally strong, especially with support from Misty, Manaphy, and Vaporeon. This deck is particularly effective against popular Water-type adversaries, like Starmie ex and Gyarados ex, making it a favorite for tournaments.
However, there are some weaknesses to consider. The reliance on Water-type Pokémon can be a disadvantage against Pikachu ex and other Electric-types. Additionally, managing Dimensional Storm’s Energy Token cost can be tricky, requiring careful planning. Losing key Energy cards like Manaphy can cause setbacks, and building this deck may take time due to the rarity of some cards.
Popular Variants
While the recommended build centers around Water-type Pokémon, there are some viable variants:
- Mew ex: Expands damage range with Genome Hacking and adds more type flexibility.
- Regice: Provides an early-game wall and some effect mitigation.
- Porygon-Z: Introduces chaos and disruption with Buggy Beam.
- Pokémon Communication: Boosts draw power and provides extra movement.
- Giant Cape: Enhances survivability and boosts HP.
If you opt for a non-Water-type Pokémon like Mew ex, make sure the deck still uses Water Energy Tokens to avoid unwanted mismatches.
Conclusion
The Palkia ex deck in Pokémon TCG Pocket is a strong contender for competitive play. With its powerful damage potential and strategic Energy Token management, it can easily overpower many decks.
While it requires some practice to master, especially in managing its Energy requirements, it’s an incredibly fun and rewarding deck to play. If you’re building this deck, remember to look for exclusive packs from the Space-Time Smackdown expansion to complete your collection.