Oricorio and Magnezone challenge the ex Pokémon in the new Pokémon TCG Pocket meta

In the dynamic universe of the Pokémon Trading Card Game Pokémon Pocket, Pokémon ex have dominated the most competitive matches thanks to their power and versatility. However, a recent strategy based on Lightning-type Oricorio has begun to shake up the current meta, proposing a disruptive approach that completely dispenses with these colossi.

The arrival of Oricorio with the Sacred Veil ability, included in the Celestial Guardians expansion, offers a new tactical defense: it completely nullifies the damage from rival Pokémon ex attacks, becoming a key card to stop the most feared decks.

A deck without Pokémon ex that puts up a fight

The strategy leading this new approach revolves around a purely Lightning-type Pokémon combination, where Oricorio and Magnezone are the central cards. Unlike many current setups, this deck doesn't include any Pokémon ex, which reduces the risk of the opponent quickly scoring points by eliminating key cards.

The deck's structure relies on the evolutionary line of Magnemite and Magneton, whose synergy with Oricorio allows for gaining time while setting the stage for Thunder Burst, Magnezone's decisive attack. Alongside Oricorio's Buzz move, this duo can reach 160 combined damage points, enough to eliminate non-ex threats in a single turn.

Tools, trainers, and strategic defense

The list includes cards like Giant Cape, Potion, and classic trainers like Guzma, Sabrina, and Helio, which help keep Oricorio standing and manage the pace of the game. In this type of deck without offensive explosion, defense and planning become crucial.

One of the strengths of this tactic is that, by not using Pokémon ex, each defeated card only grants one point to the opponent, allowing for attrition play and forcing favorable exchanges. The key is to endure long enough for Oricorio to eliminate the main threats and pave the way for a slow but sure victory.

A shift in the game's balance

Although still in the exploration stage,  this setup has begun to gain popularity among players seeking viable alternatives to the dominance of Pokémon ex. Additionally, its low cost in prize points and its ability to counter traditional strategies make it an attractive option both in tournaments and casual play.

As more trainers experiment with this deck,  it will be interesting to see if it consolidates as a new competitive standard or if it's just a temporary phase in the game's evolution.