Pokemon TCG Pocket brings a fresh twist to the familiar world of the physical Pokemon Trading Card Game, particularly with its unique approach to deckbuilding. In this iteration, players must master strategies with decks that are restricted to just 20 cards. This constraint, combined with randomly generated Energy, shifts the game dynamics significantly.
The biggest challenge in Pocket is the way Energy is handled. Traditional Energy cards are absent, replaced by a system that randomly generates Energy based on the types players choose for their decks. This works well if a deck relies on a single Energy type. However, it spells trouble for decks that require multiple Energy types, leaving Dragon-type Pokemon at a disadvantage. These powerful creatures demand specific Energy combinations, but with the current setup, it’s a gamble whether they’ll get what they need in play.
Pocket incorporates seven Dragon-type cards, not accounting for the rare illustrations of beloved Pokemon like Dragonite and Garchomp. Each of these cards, aside from Gible, relies on two distinct Energy types to unleash their full potential. For example, Dragonite’s line demands both Water and Electric Energy, while other Dragons have their unique combinations like Water and Fire or Water and Fighting.
A specific issue arises with this randomized Energy generation. It can often result in an inability to draw the necessary variety of Energy to execute specific strategies. A deck featuring Garchomp alongside Greninja might never acquire the essential Fighting Energy needed for a Dragon attack, stalling progress. To address this, Pokemon TCG Pocket could adopt a more refined system: generating Energy based on the composition of Pokemon types in the deck, or introducing special Trainer cards. Imagine a Trainer card inspired by Lance, the master Dragon trainer, that allows Dragon Pokemon to use any Energy type, just enough to meet their attack requirements. Alternatively, a card that lets players convert Energy types within the Energy Zone as needed could bring much-needed flexibility to the game.
With these changes, Pokemon TCG Pocket could enrich its strategic depth, granting Dragon decks a fairer chance to shine. Presently, the game leans towards decks that stick with a single Energy type due to the uncertainty of random Energy draws. Combating this imbalance could broaden the field, making way for decks that harness the power of multiple Pokemon types and truly diversify the gameplay landscape.
