Pokemon TCG Pocket: Paralyzed, Explained (& All Cards with ‘Paralyze’ Ability)

This guide explores the Paralyze effect in Pokémon TCG Pocket, explaining its mechanics, cures, and strategies for building effective decks.

What is Paralyzed?

Paralyzed is a Special Condition that prevents an opponent's Active Pokémon from attacking or retreating for one turn. The effect automatically ends before your next turn begins.

Paralyzed vs. Asleep

Both Paralyzed and Asleep prevent attacks and retreats. However, Paralyzed automatically resolves, while Asleep requires a coin flip or specific counter strategies to cure.

Paralyzed in Pokémon Pocket vs. Physical TCG

Unlike the physical TCG, Pokémon TCG Pocket currently lacks Trainer cards to directly counter Paralysis. The core mechanic remains the same: a Paralyzed Pokémon is immobile for a single turn.

Pokémon with Paralyze

Currently, only Pincurchin, Elektross, and Articuno in the Genetic Apex expansion can inflict Paralysis, each relying on a coin flip. This reliance on chance makes it less reliable as a primary deck-building strategy.

Curing Paralyzed

Four methods cure Paralysis:

1. Waiting: The effect automatically ends at the start of your next turn.
2. Evolution: Evolving the Paralyzed Pokémon instantly removes the condition.
3. Retreating: Retreating the Pokémon removes the condition (as Bench Pokémon cannot be affected).
4. Support Cards: Currently, only Koga's effect counters Paralysis, but only for Weezing or Muk.

Best Paralyze Deck

Paralysis alone isn't a strong deck archetype. Combining it with Asleep, however, offers greater effectiveness. A sample Articuno & Frosmoth deck leveraging both conditions includes:

This strategy combines the Paralysis and Sleep effects for increased control over the opponent's Active Pokémon.