The initial launch of Pokémon TCG Pocket saw a meta dominated by a few powerful decks, notably those centered around Misty and Water-type Pokémon. Early on, these decks earned a reputation for being frustrating due to their reliance on coin flips, potentially overwhelming opponents before they could even establish a defense.
Three expansions later, instead of seeing Misty decks countered or replaced, the latest expansion, Triumphant Light, introduced a card that significantly amplified their power, leaving many players disheartened.
Some variety would be appreciated
by u/Mizter_Man in PTCGP
The issue isn't necessarily Misty decks' raw power, but the intensely frustrating experience of losing to them. Misty, a Supporter card, allows players to flip coins, attaching a Water-type Energy to a chosen Water-type Pokémon for each heads. This could result in nothing, or a massive energy advantage, creating highly variable outcomes. A lucky Misty can lead to turn-one victories, or quickly overwhelm opponents with powerful attacks before they can react.
Why would they ever make a card like this?
by u/EfficientTrainer3206 in PTCGP
Subsequent expansions exacerbated the problem. Mythical Island introduced Vaporeon, enabling easy energy movement between Water-types, while Space-Time Smackdown added Manaphy, further boosting energy count. Powerful Water-type Pokémon like Palkia ex and Gyarados ex capitalized on this energy surplus, solidifying Water decks' meta dominance.
DeNA, What the Heck are You Doing?
by u/HolographicHeart in PTCGP
Triumphant Light introduced Irida, another Supporter card that heals 40 damage from each Pokémon with attached Water-type Energy. This healing capability, previously a Grass-type deck strength, allows Water decks to stage significant comebacks, especially given their enhanced energy generation via Misty, Manaphy, and Vaporeon.
Some TCG experts suggest a strategic reasoning behind Irida's inclusion. With deck size limited to 20 cards, adding Irida necessitates removing other cards. The abundance of strong Water-type cards forces players to choose between Misty and Irida. Developer DeNA may have intended Irida to dilute Misty's dominance, forcing difficult deckbuilding choices. However, many players have found ways to utilize both effectively.
Three days away… what will you all be playing?
by u/INDlGO in PTCGP
An upcoming in-game event rewards players for consecutive online wins, culminating in a gold profile badge for five wins. This is challenging, especially against potentially overwhelming Water decks capable of quick victories. The prevalence of powerful Water decks, particularly during this event, makes playing one a strategic consideration.
Expect to see a high volume of Water decks in competitive play for the foreseeable future. The current meta strongly favors this strategy, making it a viable, if potentially frustrating, option for players.
