Top Free-to-Play Decks for Pokemon TCG Pocket

The launch of the much-anticipated Pokemon Trading Card Game Pocket mini-set, dubbed Mythical Island, is drawing a surge of both new and returning players. Many players are eager to dive into this engaging virtual card game and collect a variety of shiny, new cards. However, not all players can afford to purchase Poke Gold from the cash shop to obtain desirable EX cards.

While these cards may have stunning visuals, their allure doesn’t overshadow the core competitive nature of Pokemon TCG Pocket, which balances both card battling and collecting. As tempting as it is to invest in a “competitive”deck featuring popular characters like Pikachu and Mewtwo, players can absolutely craft effective decks without spending a dime.

This guide aims to introduce some of the most straightforward yet powerful decks and offer tips on how to effectively utilize them, leaving those relying on Articuno EX trembling in their boots!

Understanding Genetic Apex & Battle Rewards

For newcomers to the game, it’s advisable to commit to one of the Genetic Apex packs, directing focus towards acquiring the essential tools for a specific deck before experimenting with the new mini-set. Although battle rewards are not overly generous—granting only 15 experience points for a victory—the quick pace of battles in Pokemon TCG Pocket facilitates rapid leveling for lower-tier players.

I’ve noticed that many opponents may concede when they encounter formidable decks with a strong opening hand, further easing the leveling experience. Climbing levels translates into more Pack Hourglasses, which equate to more cards—a prospect that’s hard to resist.

Consider rerolling your account to enhance your chances of unlocking superior cards. This process is swift and can prove beneficial over time.

NOEX: For Honorable Battlers

If you’re among those who prefer to compete without relying on the usual EX cards, joining a Private Lobby using the password “NOEX” might just be your niche. Although this setup relies on an honor system rather than being an official game mode, it showcases the variety of diverse decks available in Pokemon TCG Pocket, providing a refreshing change of pace.

The suggested decks here are crafted specifically for free-to-play (F2P) players and exclude EX cards. However, with the right strategies and a bit of luck, they can compete effectively against the most powerful Meta decks.

Normal-type Pokémon can be invaluable allies in this format. Cards like Meowth and Kangaskhan enhance draw power or serve as a strategic wall to buy time.

Blaine Deck Overview

The Scorching King of Aggro

This deck ranks among the most economical and powerful strategies in Pokemon TCG Pocket, built with an array of easily accessible cards—particularly beneficial after the recent fire event. Its speed enables decisive victories, often requiring minimal strategic decision-making.

Ninetales stands out as the main damage dealer, wielding the 2-energy cost Flamethrower, which dishes out a staggering 90 damage with a minor drawback.

Being a Stage 1 Pokémon, Ninetales can be swiftly deployed onto the battlefield, often becoming a game-changer by turn two.

The formidable Blaine serves as the deck’s hidden advantage, enhancing Flamethrower damage by 30, resulting in a 120-damage output—enough to dispatch troublesome Pikachu EXs, which are known for strong field presence early in the game.

While the deck faces challenges against water-themed setups, with characters like Celebi and Serperior emerging from the new Mythical Island set, its potential remains promising.

Card Name	Quantity
Vulpix	2
Ninetales	2
Ponyta	2
Rapidash	2
Magmar	1
Blaine	2
Potion	2
X Speed	2
Poke Ball	2
Red Card	1
Professor Oak	2

Don’t hesitate to utilize Vulpix to stall while you dig for Blaine among your cards. A well-placed Ninetales can often swing the game in your favor.

Greninja Deck Overview

The Slippery Shinobi Sniper

This water-type deck capitalizes on the strengths of Greninja, utilizing its abilities to target Pokémon on the bench. Combined with its attack, Greninja can inflict up to 80 damage each turn using only two energy.

The non-EX variant of Articuno also proves invaluable, serving as a sturdy wall while facilitating the Greninja setup. Additionally, Articuno’s Ice Beam attack can paralyze opponents, effectively neutralizing their moves. With a bit of luck, a well-timed Misty can render the opposing team unable to play—a highly frustrating scenario for your adversary!

Nonetheless, being a water-type deck poses challenges against the dominant Pikachu EX decks currently in circulation. However, water types consistently benefit from Misty, which can turn unfavorable matchups on their head if executed well in the early turns.

Card Name	Quantity
Froakie	2
Frogadier	2
Greninja	2
Articuno	2
Misty	2
Sabrina	2
Potion	2
X Speed	2
Poke Ball	2
Professor Oak	2

Dragonite Deck Overview

Draco Meteor Destruction

The Draco Meteor move is renowned for its unique mechanics: a 4-energy attack that guarantees 200 damage distributed across all opponents’ Pokémon. While it can feel random, when executed perfectly, Draco Meteor is undoubtedly one of the most thrilling moves in the Pokemon TCG Pocket landscape.

Experiencing the thrill of applying 200 damage to an unsuspecting Charizard EX and witnessing an opponent concede is incomparable.

This strategy utilizes Kangaskhan to provide time and draw cards while assembling your resources. The Dizzy Punch attack, which costs a single energy, can sometimes secure a quick knockout when the dice rolls in your favor.

Moreover, Jigglypuff’s Sing move can afford you critical extra turns as you prepare to unleash your powerhouse. While this deck may take a while to ramp up, the eventual rewards are compelling.

A noteworthy limitation of this deck is the somewhat unconventional energy system implemented in Pokemon TCG Pocket. Unlike traditional formats that use energy cards, this mobile game incorporates an inbuilt energy mechanism on the battlefield.

Dragon-types must draw from multiple energy types, each having a 50% likelihood of activation during a turn, which can occasionally lead to a frustrating scenario if the required energy doesn’t manifest promptly. This uncontrollable aspect is a significant consideration when strategizing with this deck.