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

This guide explores the Special Condition "Poisoned" in Pokémon TCG Pocket. We'll cover what it does, which cards inflict it, how to cure it, and build a competitive Poison deck.

What is Poisoned?

Poisoned is a Special Condition that inflicts 10 HP damage at the end of each round. Unlike some effects, it persists until cured or the Pokémon is knocked out. While it stacks with other Special Conditions, multiple Poisoned effects don't increase the damage beyond 10 HP per turn. However, certain Pokémon benefit from this status, dealing bonus damage.

Poison-Inflicting Cards

In the Genetic Apex expansion, five cards inflict Poisoned: Weezing, Grimer, Nidoking, Tentacruel, and Venomoth. Grimer stands out as a Basic Pokémon that poisons with only one Energy. Weezing's "Gas Leak" ability also inflicts Poisoned without Energy, but only while Active.

Curing Poisoned

Three methods exist to counter Poisoned:

1. Evolution: Evolving a Poisoned Pokémon removes the effect.
2. Retreat: Moving the Poisoned Pokémon to the Bench prevents further damage.
3. Item Cards: Cards like Potion heal HP, but don't cure Poisoned directly.

Building a Poison Deck

While not a top-tier archetype, a strong Poison deck can be built around Grimer, Arbok, and Muk. This strategy uses Grimer for quick Poison application, Arbok to lock opponents' Active Pokémon, and Muk to deal significant damage to Poisoned enemies (up to 120 HP).

Here's a sample decklist focusing on this synergy:

Alternative strategies include using Jigglypuff (PA) and Wigglytuff ex, or a slower, high-damage approach with the Nidoking evolution line (Nidoran, Nidorino, Nidoking). Experiment to find your preferred playstyle!