Machamp Ex Deck: From Evolution to Victory in Pokémon TCG Pocket

Building a formidable Machamp Ex deck in Pokémon TCG Pocket can be both rewarding and strategic. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you assemble and play an effective Machamp ex deck.

Machamp ex Deck List:

• Pokémon:

• 2x Machop

• 2x Machoke

• 2x Machamp ex

• 2x Diglett

• 2x Dugtrio

• Trainer Cards:

• 1x Giovanni

• 2x Sabrina

• 2x Potion

• 2x Poké Ball

• 1x Red Card

• 2x Professor’s Research

Note: This list is inspired by the Machamp ex deck featured in the Genetic Apex set.

Deck Strategy:

1. Early Game Setup:

• Starting Pokémon: Aim to start with Machop as your active Pokémon. Attach an Energy to Machop and use its “Knuckle Punch” attack to deal early damage.

• Evolution: On your next turn, evolve Machop into Machoke and attach another Energy. Use Professor’s Research to draw additional cards, seeking Machamp ex for the subsequent evolution.

2. Mid to Late Game:

• Machamp ex as Main Attacker: Once Machamp ex is in play, it becomes your primary attacker. Its “Mega Punch” attack deals 120 damage, allowing you to knock out most opposing Pokémon efficiently.

• Support with Dugtrio: Dugtrio can serve as a secondary attacker or a stalling option. Its “Dig” attack has a chance to make it immune to damage for a turn, buying you time to set up Machamp ex or disrupt your opponent’s strategy.

Trainer Card Utilization:

• Giovanni: Boosts your Pokémon’s attack damage by 10, which can be crucial in securing knockouts.

• Sabrina: Provides card-drawing power to maintain hand advantage.

• Potion: Heals your Pokémon, extending their time on the battlefield.

• Poké Ball: Helps search for essential Pokémon to complete your evolution lines.

• Red Card: Disrupts your opponent’s hand, potentially hindering their strategy.

• Professor’s Research: Allows you to draw seven new cards, refreshing your hand and providing more options.

Strengths and Weaknesses:

• Strengths:

• High Damage Output: Machamp ex’s “Mega Punch” delivers substantial damage, capable of knocking out many opponents in one hit.

• Durability: With 180 HP, Machamp ex can withstand significant attacks, making it a resilient presence on the field.

• Weaknesses:

• Setup Time: As a Stage 2 Pokémon, Machamp ex requires time to evolve from Machop to Machoke and finally to Machamp ex. This progression can be slow and may leave you vulnerable in the early game.

• Psychic Weakness: Machamp ex is weak to Psychic-type attacks, which are common in the current meta. Facing Psychic decks can be challenging and may require strategic adjustments.

Alternative Options:

If you’re looking to diversify your deck or adapt to different playstyles, consider incorporating the following:

• Primeape: Utilizing Mankey from Promo packs, Primeape’s “Fight Back” attack can deal a full-powered 100 damage starting from turn 2, offering a quicker offensive option. 

• Marowak ex: As a Fighting-type Pokémon, Marowak ex can complement Machamp ex, providing additional attacking strategies and synergy within the deck.

Crafting a Machamp ex deck involves balancing powerful attacks with strategic setup. By focusing on evolving Machamp ex efficiently and supporting it with complementary Pokémon and Trainer cards, you can create a deck that’s both formidable and enjoyable to play. Remember to adapt your strategy based on your opponent’s moves and the flow of the game to maximize your chances of victory.