Mastering the Arceus Ex Strategy in Pokémon TCG Pocket
The arrival of Arceus Ex in Pokémon TCG Pocket has significantly altered the meta. Its unique abilities and synergy with several Pokémon from the Triumphant Light expansion pack make it a formidable force. This guide explores three top-tier Arceus Ex deck builds.
Arceus Ex boasts an immunity to status conditions like Sleep and Confusion, and its Ultimate Force attack packs a punch: 70 base damage plus 20 for each benched Pokémon, reaching a devastating 130 with a full bench. Its power is amplified by eight Pokémon with "link" abilities activated by Arceus (Ex or regular) presence. This guide focuses on three particularly effective pairings: Crobat, Magnezone, and Heatran.
Crobat (Dark Energy) Deck
This deck utilizes Crobat and Arceus Ex as primary attackers. With Arceus Ex in play, Crobat inflicts 30 damage from the bench, and deals 50 damage for a single Dark Energy.
- Key Cards: 2x Arceus Ex, 2x Zubat, 2x Golbat, 2x Crobat, 1x Spiritomb, 1x Farfetch’d, 2x Professor’s Research, 2x Dawn, 2x Cyrus, 2x Poké Ball, 2x Pokémon Communication.
The strategy involves leveraging Crobat's bench damage and low energy cost alongside Arceus Ex's powerful attack. Farfetch’d adds pressure, while Spiritomb distributes damage to the opponent's bench, setting up for knockouts with Cyrus. Arceus Ex's zero retreat cost allows for seamless switching.
Dialga Ex/Magnezone (Metal Energy) Deck
This deck features Arceus Ex as the main attacker, supported by both versions of Magnezone. Triumphant Light Magnezone receives a -30 damage reduction with Arceus Ex present, while the Genetic Apex version hits for 110 damage after using Magneton's Volt Charge.
- Key Cards: 2x Arceus Ex, 2x Dialga Ex, 2x Magnemite, 2x Magneton, 1x Magnezone (Triumphant Light), 1x Magnezone (Genetic Apex), 1x Skarmory, 2x Professor’s Research, 2x Leaf, 2x Giant’s Cape, 1x Rocky Helmet, 2x Poké Ball.
Skarmory, alongside Giant’s Cape and Rocky Helmet, provides crucial survivability, allowing you to build a large bench to maximize Arceus Ex's damage output. Careful energy management is key due to Magnezone's dual typing.
Heatran (Fire Energy) Deck
This deck employs a fast-paced Fire-type strategy, similar to Ninetails Blaine decks, but enhanced by Arceus Ex. Heatran, Rapidash, and Farfetch’d provide early pressure, while Arceus Ex builds on the bench.
- Key Cards: 2x Arceus Ex, 2x Heatran, 2x Ponyta, 2x Rapidash, 1x Farfetch’d, 2x Professor’s Research, 1x Blaine, 1x Cyrus, 1x Dawn, 2x Giant’s Cape, 2x Poké Ball, 2x X Speed.
Heatran's free retreat with Arceus Ex in play allows for flexible positioning. Giant’s Cape boosts survivability, particularly for Heatran. Ragin’ Fury's damage varies based on Heatran's condition.
These are currently some of the most effective Arceus Ex decks in Pokémon TCG Pocket. However, as the meta evolves, new strategies and deck variations are sure to emerge.
Pokémon TCG Pocket is available now on mobile devices.
