Introduction to Garchomp ex in Pokémon TCG Pocket
One of the most exciting additions to the world of Pokémon TCG Pocket with the launch of the Triumphant Light set is the Garchomp ex card. This Fighting-type powerhouse boasts 170HP and two unique attacks, making it one of the most viable Fighting-type cards in the game. In this guide, we’ll dive into the best Garchomp ex Pocket deck, including the card list, how it functions in a match, and key strengths and weaknesses to consider.
Best Garchomp ex Pocket Deck Build List
The core of this deck is the Garchomp line, with Garchomp ex as the primary damage dealer. Garchomp ex features two attacks: Linear Attack, which deals 50 damage to any target on the field, and Dragon Claw, a more powerful 100 damage attack. The deck also includes the Lucario line to boost Fighting-type damage, Marshadow for equalizing the playing field, and Sudowoodo for early-game management against ex-heavy decks. Each card in this deck serves a specific purpose, contributing to a balanced and versatile strategy.
Key Cards and Their Roles
One of the most important Supporters in this deck is Cyrus, which allows you to switch in an opponent’s card if it has damage on it. Since the deck’s damage output isn’t high enough to result in many one-hit knockouts, Cyrus is a valuable tool to control the flow of the game. To support the variety of Pokémon in this deck, we’ve included both a Giant Cape and a copy of Pokémon Communication. The Giant Cape helps keep early-game pulls like Riolu and Gible alive, while Pokémon Communication adds extra draw power alongside the Poké Ball and Professor’s Research.
Variants and Alternatives
For players looking to experiment with alternate Garchomp ex lists, some popular inclusions are:
- Hitmonlee: For additional Fighting-type damage that can reach anywhere on the field.
- Druddigon: For an easy setup process and a wall, thanks to the Rough Skin Ability.
- Giovanni: For a small boost of additional damage to take out mid-health cards.
- Farfetch’d: For Colorless, early-game damage.
- The Aerodactyl ex Line: To block crucial evolutions and deliver a cheap, heavy-hitting attack.
- Mars: For additional disruption and chaos against strong pairings.
- Sabrina: For an extra way to switch out an opponent’s card, which pairs well with Cyrus.
How the Deck Works
Garchomp ex is a high-HP tank with two key damage sources: Linear Attack and Dragon Claw. Linear Attack serves as a Bench sniping tool, dealing 50 damage to any of your opponent’s cards, whether they are the Active or Benched Pokémon. Dragon Claw is a standard 100 damage attack, but with Lucario’s Fighting Coach Ability, it can deal meaningful damage. Lucario also has the attack Submarine Blow, which deals 40 base damage but can reach 60 with its Ability in play.
Sudowoodo is an ideal card for early-game management, especially against ex cards. The attack Fighting Headbutt deals 20 base damage for one Fighting-type Energy and stacks up to 50 damage if the opponent’s Active is a Pokémon ex. Marshadow acts as an equalizer, dealing 40 base damage and an additional 60 if one of your cards was Knocked Out in the previous turn, making it a valuable tool for rebalancing the match.
Supporters like Leaf help with cutting Retreat Costs, making it easier to reset a bad early game hand. Poké Ball, Professor’s Research, and Pokémon Communication provide much-needed draw power, while Cyrus gives you control over the opponent by moving their damaged cards around. The Giant Cape helps beef up key cards like Garchomp ex, making them nearly unstoppable.
Strengths and Weaknesses
One of the best aspects of this deck is its multiple sources of damage, enhanced by Lucario’s Ability. You can deal damage through Garchomp ex, Gabite in the early game, Lucario, or Sudowoodo. The ability to snipe opponents with Garchomp ex’s Linear Attack is particularly valuable, dealing 50 damage a pop and potentially removing crucial Basic cards early in the match.
Marshadow is always a valuable card in a Fighting-type deck. Even if you can’t score a Knock Out with it after losing one of your Pokémon, 100 damage for just two Energy Tokens is significant and can turn the tide of the game. However, this deck struggles to match high-damage output lists, prioritizing survivability and adaptability over brutal hits. It can’t compete with decks like Palkia ex or Charizard ex in terms of one-hit knockout potential.
There is some setup required, with Garchomp ex taking time to get into position and Riolu being less useful until it evolves. The addition of Sudowoodo and, in some cases, Druddigon, can help manage this, but the deck isn’t as quick to get ready as others like Infernape ex. When it comes to type pairings, Garchomp ex is in a decent position but still at risk of running into Psychic-type heavy hitters like Mewtwo ex or Cynthia decks with a Togekiss build.
Conclusion
Despite its challenges, the Garchomp ex deck offers a unique and engaging playstyle. It is a balanced and versatile strategy that can be a lot of fun to play. If you have Pack Points to spare after opening Triumphant Light, give this deck a try. Its strength lies in its ability to adapt and control the game, making it a valuable addition to your Pokémon TCG Pocket collection.
