When Pokemon TCG Pocket first hit the scene, the meta quickly became dominated by a select few decks. Among them, the Misty and water-type Pokemon deck stood out, earning a notorious reputation for its ability to overpower opponents early on, depending heavily on the outcome of coin flips. This luck-based strategy has been a point of contention since the game's launch.
Despite three expansions having passed, you might expect other cards to have emerged to counter or replace the Misty decks. However, the latest expansion has only amplified their strength, leaving many players frustrated and calling for more variety in the meta.
Some variety would be appreciated
It's not that Misty decks are the most powerful; it's the feeling of helplessness when losing to them due to their reliance on luck. Misty, a Supporter card, allows players to choose a water-type Pokemon and flip coins until they get tails. For each heads flipped, a water-type energy is attached to the chosen Pokemon. This mechanic can result in anywhere from zero to numerous energy attachments, potentially allowing a player to win on the very first turn or power up formidable cards before opponents can respond effectively.
Why would they ever make a card like this?
The situation has worsened with subsequent expansions introducing cards that bolster Misty's effectiveness. Mythical Island brought Vaporeon, enabling the free movement of bonus energy among water-types. Space-Time Smackdown introduced Manaphy, which adds even more water energy to the board. These expansions also introduced powerful water-type Pokemon like Palkia ex and Gyarados ex, further solidifying water decks' dominance over multiple expansion cycles.
DeNa, What the Heck are You Doing?
The latest expansion, Triumphant Light, has introduced Irida, another Supporter card that can heal 40 damage from each Pokemon with water-type energy attached. This addition gives water decks a significant comeback potential, especially when paired with Misty, Manaphy, and Vaporeon, which help in accumulating and distributing energy effectively.
Some Pokemon TCG experts suggest that Irida might be intended to force players to make tough choices about which Supporters to include in their limited 20-card decks. However, many experienced deckbuilders have successfully incorporated both Misty and Irida, maintaining the water deck's dominance.
Three days away… what will you all be playing?
As the game gears up for a scheduled event with rewards for win streaks in the online competitive mode, expect to see a high prevalence of water decks. Achieving the coveted gold profile badge for five consecutive wins is challenging, especially against decks that can dominate early with favorable coin flips and recover with cards like Irida. Given their current strength, it might be strategic to consider playing a water deck yourself during this and future events.
