The Ultimate Counter to Gyarados Ex and Vaporeon in Pokémon TCG Pocket
Want to take down the mighty Gyarados EX and Vaporeon deck? The Shockwave Blitz deck is your best choice. Built around powerful Lightning Pokémon like Pikachu ex and Zapdos, this deck uses speed, type advantage, and disruption to keep your opponent off balance. Let’s explore how to build and dominate with this electrifying counter-strategy
Shockwave Blitz Deck List
Pokémon (12 Cards)
| Pokémon | Set | Count | Why Included? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pikachu ex | Genetic Apex | 2 | High-damage attacker with Circle Circuit, exploiting Water-type weakness for massive damage. |
| Pikachu | Mythical Island | 2 | Evolves into Pikachu ex for fast offensive power. |
| Raichu | Mythical Island | 2 | Consistent damage dealer with versatility for mid-game dominance. |
| Joltik | Mythical Island | 2 | Low-cost attacker that can apply early pressure. |
| Galvantula | Mythical Island | 2 | Bench sniper that disrupts setup by targeting support Pokémon like Eevee or Starmie ex. |
| Zapdos | Mythical Island | 2 | A standalone powerhouse, capable of exploiting Water-type weakness for key knockouts. |
Trainers (8 Cards)
| Trainer Card | Set | Count | Why Included? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Professor’s Research | Promo | 2 | Keeps your hand full, ensuring access to key Pokémon and Trainers. |
| Blue | Mythical Island | 2 | Provides draw power to maintain consistency. |
| Escape Rope | Genetic Apex | 2 | Forces opponent switches, creating opportunities to knock out weaker Pokémon. |
| X Speed | Promo | 2 | Enhances mobility, allowing for quick retreats and surprise plays. |
Deck Strategy
Early Game: Quick Pressure
1. Start with Joltik or Zapdos as your Active Pokémon to apply immediate pressure.
2. Use Poké Ball or Professor’s Research to quickly search for Pikachu ex and evolve Pikachu.
3. Fill your bench with Lightning Pokémon to prepare for Pikachu ex’s Circle Circuit attack.
Mid Game: Target Weak Links
1. Transition to Galvantula to snipe Pokémon on the opponent’s bench, disrupting their ability to evolve into Gyarados ex or Vaporeon.
2. Use Escape Rope to force your opponent to switch, exposing their weaker Pokémon for knockouts.
3. Bring Pikachu ex into play to deal heavy damage, especially against Gyarados ex.
Late Game: Finishing Strong
1. Use Zapdos to deliver high-damage attacks to knock out Gyarados ex or other powerful Pokémon.
2. Keep the pressure on with Raichu, using it to clean up weakened Pokémon on your opponent’s side.
3. Use Trainer cards like Blue to maintain tempo and ensure you always have access to critical cards.
Why This Deck Excels Against Gyarados ex and Vaporeon
1. Type Advantage:
• All Lightning Pokémon deal double damage to Water Pokémon, making Gyarados ex and Starmie ex vulnerable.
2. Early Aggression:
• Pokémon like Joltik and Zapdos apply pressure early, disrupting your opponent’s ability to set up their key Pokémon.
3. Disruption:
• Galvantula targets bench Pokémon like Eevee and Magikarp, crippling their ability to evolve.
• Escape Rope forces your opponent into unfavorable board states.
4. Consistency:
• Pikachu ex and Raichu provide reliable damage throughout the game, ensuring steady pressure.
Tips for Success
• Maximize Bench Size: Keep your bench full of Lightning Pokémon to power up Pikachu ex’s Circle Circuit attack.
• Target Support Pokémon: Use Galvantula to pick off Pokémon like Eevee or unpowered Staryu to prevent your opponent from setting up.
• Be Aggressive: This deck thrives on speed. Apply pressure from turn one to keep your opponent scrambling.
The Shockwave Blitz deck is a fast, powerful counter to Water-type decks like Gyarados Ex and Vaporeon. With Pikachu ex leading the charge, supported by Zapdos and Galvantula, this deck ensures you’ll always stay ahead. Build your deck, take control, and dominate your next match in Pokémon TCG Pocket!
