Small is Good – The Beauty of Single-Prize Attackers
[cardimg name=”Blacephalon” set=”Unbroken Bonds” no=”32″ align=”right” c=”none”][/cardimg]
Hello everyone, I’m back again with an article for y’all. For the next 4,000 words, I’ll be taking you through a few single-Prize attacker decks and how they are positioned for the upcoming major tournaments in both the Standard and Expanded formats. Without further ado, let’s jump into it.
With the addition of Sword and Shield into our Standard format, it gave a much-needed consistency boost to single-Prize decks with cards like [card name=”Quick Ball” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”179″ c=”name”][/card] or [card name=”Professor’s Research” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”178″ c=”name”][/card]. Ever since rotation, these archetypes have lacked a consistent method of setup and have had no turbo support, settling for slower search options like [card name=”Green’s Exploration” set=”Unbroken Bonds” no=”175″ c=”name”][/card]. With these new speedy cards, single-Prize decks will be able to keep up with big TAG TEAM HP and consistently set up.
Before I go further, I’ll quickly explain what a single-Prize attacking deck (or SPAD for short) consists of.
The notable definition of a SPAD is:
- The deck consists of the main attacker that is not a Pokemon-GX or -EX
- The deck’s main win condition is taking all six Prize cards rather than stalling or benching out the opponent
And that’s it! In my last article, I touched on what I believed was a strong counter to a GX/EX focused meta: defensive decks that try to outlast the opponent and their initial swing as well as single-Prize decks that can trade evenly with high-HP TAG TEAMS at a 2-to-1 ratio (which is a favorable three to two Prize card exchange). For further explanation of this idea of utilizing a “better value” attacker, see that article. In both Standard and Expanded right now I believe there is a big opening for SPADs since much of the meta’s focus is on new Pokemon V and Pokemon VMAX. The simple truth is that single-Prize decks are favored against two- or three-Prize decks because Pokemon is still a game of attrition. By giving up less Prize cards for the same amount of Knock Outs, a single-Prize deck will always win against any multi-Prize deck.
Standard: Baby Blacephalon
For the upcoming Oceania International Championships, it will be the first major event with Sword and Shield legal. From my testing, here are few major decks I expect to show up and their popularity:
- [card name=”Arceus and Dialga and Palkia-GX” set=”Cosmic Eclipse” no=”156″ c=”name”][/card] (ADP) / [card name=”Zacian V” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”138″ c=”name”][/card] – most played deck and/or BDIF
- [card name=”Mewtwo and Mew-GX” set=”Unified Minds” no=”71″ c=”name”][/card] / [card name=”Malamar” set=”Forbidden Light” no=”51″ c=”name”][/card] – the second-best deck after ADP / Zacian V
- [card name=”Galarian Obstagoon” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”119″ c=”name”][/card] – low popularity and is alright overall
- Baby [card name=”Blacephalon” set=”Unbroken Bonds” no=”32″ c=”name”][/card] – medium popularity
- [card name=”Pikachu and Zekrom-GX” set=”Team Up” no=”33″ c=”name”][/card] – underwhelming but medium popularity
- [card name=”Cinccino” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”147″ c=”name”][/card] Mill – medium to low popularity
As you can see, with the exception of the new Galarian Obstagoon deck or Cinccino Mill deck, the meta for OCIC is largely a GX meta. Thus, my leading pick, if I were to go, would be Baby Blacephalon, an already established deck with a Regional Championship under its belt by our very own Stéphane Ivanoff.
Here’s the list I’ve been working on:
[decklist name=”Baby Blacephalon” amt=”60″ caption=”” cname=”Blacephalon” set=”Unbroken Bonds” no=”32″][pokemon amt=”11″]4x [card name=”Blacephalon” set=”Unbroken Bonds” no=”32″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Jirachi” set=”Team Up” no=”99″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]1x [card name=”Victini Prism Star” set=”Dragon Majesty” no=”7″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Blacephalon-GX” set=”Lost Thunder” no=”52″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Oricorio-GX” set=”Cosmic Eclipse” no=”95″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card][/pokemon][trainers amt=”33″]4x [card name=”Welder” set=”Unbroken Bonds” no=”189″ c=”deck2″ divide=”yes” amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Pokégear 3.0″ set=”Unbroken Bonds” no=”182″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Fiery Flint” set=”Dragon Majesty” no=”60″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Fire Crystal” set=”Unbroken Bonds” no=”173″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Quick Ball” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”179″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]3x [card name=”Acro Bike” set=”Celestial Storm” no=”123″ c=”deck2″ amt=”3″][/card]2x [card name=”Switch” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”183″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]2x [card name=”Escape Board” set=”Ultra Prism” no=”122″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]2x [card name=”Lucky Egg” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”167″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]1x [card name=”Great Catcher” set=”Cosmic Eclipse” no=”192″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Pal Pad” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”172″ c=”deck2″ divide=”yes” amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Ultra Space” set=”Forbidden Light” no=”115″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Heat Factory Prism Star” set=”Lost Thunder” no=”178″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card][/trainers][energy amt=”16″]16x [card name=”Fire Energy” set=”EX Ruby and Sapphire” no=”108″ c=”deck2″ amt=”16″][/card][/energy][/decklist]
Contrary to Stephane’s Green’s Exploration build of the deck, I am a firm believer in [card name=”Jirachi” set=”Team Up” no=”99″ c=”name”][/card] TEU as the engine. With the new Supporter rule change preventing you from using Green’s Exploration on the first turn, being forced to go first hinders the deck’s goal of trying to go toe-to-toe in Knock Outs immensely.
One Oricorio-GX
I find myself often simply lacking cards to discard for [card name=”Fiery Flint” set=”Dragon Majesty” no=”60″ c=”name”][/card] or Quick Ball without being able to hold combo pieces for a big Knock Out. [card name=”Oricorio-GX” set=”Cosmic Eclipse” no=”95″ c=”name”][/card] fills this role, both as a card to discard as well or a card to find more cards throughout the course of the game. My general rule for playing Oricorio-GX down is to ask myself whether using Dance of Tribute is necessary for that particular turn. I take into account the matchup I am against and the number of gust cards ([card name=”Great Catcher” set=”Cosmic Eclipse” no=”192″ c=”name”][/card], [card name=”Custom Catcher” set=”Lost Thunder” no=”171″ c=”name”][/card], or [card name=”Pokémon Catcher” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”175″ c=”name”][/card]) that my opponent has used. Take note however; make sure that the Baby Blacephalon player will take all of his or her Prizes before the opponent, even if they do gust up Oricorio-GX and Knock it Out. If there are too many variables to know for certain whether the opponent can gust up Oricorio-GX, then use your best judgment.
Two Lucky Egg
[cardimg name=”Lucky Egg” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”167″ align=”right” c=”none”][/cardimg]
[card name=”Lucky Egg” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”167″ c=”name”][/card] is the best card in the deck by far. Oftentimes, it negates a [card name=”Reset Stamp” set=”Unified Minds” no=”206″ c=”name”][/card] entirely and can be placed on Jirachi in early game situations. I find the best use of Lucky Egg is to place it down onto a Blacephalon on the turn that I will have two or three Prizes remaining. This almost ensures that I will win the game on the next turn.
One Great Catcher
Being able to gust up a [card name=”Dedenne-GX” set=”Unbroken Bonds” no=”57″ c=”name”][/card] for a game or a big TAG TEAM threat is too good to pass up. A second copy would be my 61st addition if possible. Without Green’s Exploration, Custom Catcher is not enough value and can’t be consistently found with only [card name=”Welder” set=”Unbroken Bonds” no=”189″ c=”name”][/card] or [card name=”Heat Factory Prism Star” set=”Lost Thunder” no=”178″ c=”name”][/card]. No Custom Catcher also means no way around Galarian Obstagoon’s Obstruct — an autoloss matchup I believe is OK to take due to its waning popularity.
Other Options + How to Play
Beast Energy Prism Star
[card name=”Beast Energy Prism Star” set=”Forbidden Light” no=”117″ c=”name”][/card] could be very good against a big TAG TEAM like an Arceus and Dialga and Palkia-GX, allowing you to discard only 5 Energy as opposed to 6, but it cannot be searched and must be manually attached for turn. I do not think Beast Energy is consistent enough to warrant a slot in the deck, so I have excluded it.
Beast Ring
[card name=”Beast Ring” set=”Forbidden Light” no=”102″ c=”name”][/card] would be amazing in a Green’s Exploration build of Baby Blacephalon. However, Beast Ring is never in my hand when my opponent is at three or four Prize cards, so I would not include it.
General Tips about Playing the Deck:
Against TAG TEAM decks – In the early game, I don’t worry about letting a Jirachi go down if I can respond with a Knock Out onto a TAG TEAM or GX/V. However, against ADP / Zacian V, it is a race to see who can take six Prizes first. One must go all out to rush the opponent first due to Altered Creation GX removing single-Prize status.
Against other SPADs – Turbo, turbo, turbo. Try to get the first Knock Out and do not put down Oricorio-GX if you are able. Near the end of the game, remember Burst GX is an option as well as [card name=”Victini Prism Star” set=”Dragon Majesty” no=”7″ c=”name”][/card]’s Infinity to reset Energy (Side Bonus: Victini Prism Star only needs 2 Fire Energy to attack). Use Great Catcher to take a Knock Out on a non-single Prize Pokemon immediately if possible.
Matchups
ADP / Zacian V – Favored
Baby Blacephalon’s one-shot potential is needed to rush the opponent before Altered Creation GX can come into play. Take Knock Outs on whatever is available, and remember that Victini only needs 6 Energy in the discard to KO a Zacian V. Go first in this matchup if possible.
Frosmoth / Mewtwo and Mew-GX / Palkia-GX – Favored
[card name=”Frosmoth” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”64″ c=”name”][/card] should take a lot of time to set up and get running, so make sure you get a KO or two by the time they get set up. Then, trade attackers with your opponent until you win. Go first in this matchup if possible.
Cinccino Mill – Unfavored
Try to get Knock Outs on Zacian V; otherwise, there is not much to do. Personally, I do not respect Cinccino Mill since the deck should lose / tie to a [card name=”Girafarig” set=”Lost Thunder” no=”94″ c=”name”][/card] or opposing Resource Management [card name=”Oranguru” set=”Ultra Prism” no=”114″ c=”name”][/card]. Cinccino Mill should also struggle against ADP / Zacian V. Go second in this matchup if possible.
Mirror Match – Even
The mirror match comes down to who can score a Prize first. Check your Prize cards for Fire Energy and then use Blacephalon’s Blazer if it is appropriate on an opposing Jirachi. Past this, just stream attackers until you win! Victini Prism Star oftentimes can make a huge difference by getting a Knock Out if one cannot find a Welder each turn. Go first in this matchup if possible.
Galarian Obstagoon – Unfavored
Unfortunately, there are no options against Galarian Obstagoon’s Obstruct without sacking huge consistency cuts for Custom Catcher or some Evolution Pokemon. Galarian Obstagoon is overhyped to a degree since the deck loses to many matchups that can utilize [card name=”Phione” set=”Cosmic Eclipse” no=”57″ c=”name”][/card] and Custom Catcher to reset Obstruct. However, if one sits across from a Galarian Obstagoon deck, use Blazer and Fireball Circus to try to rush the opponent before he or she can set up a Galarian Obstagoon. Go first in this matchup if possible.
Mewtwo and Mew-GX / Malamar – Favored
With Lucky Egg, do not be afraid of Mewtwo and Mew-GX using [card name=”Trevenant and Dusknoir-GX” set=”Sun and Moon Black Star Promos” no=”SM217″ c=”name”][/card]’s Night Watch attack to shuffle the hand away. Be wary of Horror House GX on turn 1, so don’t get caught without a Pokemon on the Bench. My game plan is usually to take two TAG TEAM Knock Outs or one TAG TEAM Knock Out, a Dedenne-GX KO, and a single Prize from somewhere else. Shy away from putting Oricorio-GX in play since Malamar players tend to run a [card name=”Naganadel-GX” set=”Unified Minds” no=”160″ c=”name”][/card]. The matchup should be a breeze, especially with the option of Victini Prism Star to take a One-Hit Knock Out on a TAG TEAM if needed.
Expanded: Ultra Necrozma and Friends
In Standard, baby Blacephalon has a lot of positives and not a lot of negatives. I would run the deck for OCIC if I could and I will for any Cups I attend. For those of us not attending OCIC, the next few Regional Championships are in the Expanded format; luckily, the meta from Dallas and moving forward with Sword and Shield is also multi-Prize focused. From testing, two SPADs stand out in Expanded for their consistency and matchup spread: baby [card name=”Ultra Necrozma” set=”Cosmic Eclipse” no=”164″ c=”name”][/card] and [card name=”Vespiquen” set=”Ancient Origins” no=”10″ c=”name”][/card] / [card name=”Flareon” set=”Plasma Freeze” no=”12″ c=”name”][/card]. Both of these decks are very similar, operating through swarming the opponent with lots of attackers and eventually trading one for one with Pokemon-GXs, EXs, and Vs.
Here’s my list for baby Ultra Necrozma and Friends:
[decklist name=”Baby Ultra Necrozma” amt=”60″ caption=”” cname=”Remoraid” set=”BREAKthrough” no=”32″][pokemon amt=”12″]4x [card name=”Ultra Necrozma” set=”Cosmic Eclipse” no=”164″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]1x [card name=”Mimikyu” set=”Team Up” no=”112″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Sudowoodo” set=”BREAKpoint” no=”67″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Buzzwole” set=”Forbidden Light” no=”77″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Nihilego” set=”Lost Thunder” no=”106″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]2x [card name=”Octillery” set=”BREAKthrough” no=”33″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]2x [card name=”Remoraid” set=”BREAKthrough” no=”32″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card][/pokemon][trainers amt=”41″]4x [card name=”Professor Sycamore” set=”BREAKpoint” no=”107″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]1x [card name=”N” set=”Noble Victories” no=”92″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Guzma” set=”Burning Shadows” no=”115″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Guzma and Hala” set=”Cosmic Eclipse” no=”193″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Teammates” set=”Primal Clash” no=”141″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Pokémon Ranger” set=”Steam Siege” no=”104″ c=”deck2″ divide=”yes” amt=”1″][/card]4x [card name=”VS Seeker” set=”Roaring Skies” no=”110″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Trainers’ Mail” set=”Roaring Skies” no=”92″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Nest Ball” set=”Sun and Moon” no=”123″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]3x [card name=”Choice Band” set=”Guardians Rising” no=”121″ c=”deck2″ amt=”3″][/card]3x [card name=”Float Stone” set=”BREAKthrough” no=”137″ c=”deck2″ amt=”3″][/card]2x [card name=”Ultra Ball” set=”Dark Explorers” no=”102″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]2x [card name=”Great Catcher” set=”Cosmic Eclipse” no=”192″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]2x [card name=”Field Blower” set=”Guardians Rising” no=”125″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]1x [card name=”Battle Compressor” set=”Phantom Forces” no=”92″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Special Charge” set=”Steam Siege” no=”105″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Rescue Stretcher” set=”Guardians Rising” no=”130″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Computer Search” set=”Boundaries Crossed” no=”137″ c=”deck2″ divide=”yes” amt=”1″][/card]4x [card name=”Silent Lab” set=”Primal Clash” no=”140″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card][/trainers][energy amt=”7″]4x [card name=”Double Dragon Energy” set=”Roaring Skies” no=”97″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]2x [card name=”Counter Energy” set=”Crimson Invasion” no=”100″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]1x [card name=”Beast Energy Prism Star” set=”Forbidden Light” no=”117″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card][/energy][/decklist]
There are not many surprises, since the deck is optimized for the turn 1 attack: I prefer [card name=”Octillery” set=”BREAKthrough” no=”33″ c=”name”][/card] to [card name=”Garbodor” set=”BREAKpoint” no=”57″ c=”name”][/card] as support and a small Ultra Beast package is needed to swing certain matchups. The deck is a lean, mean, and consistent machine. Since I often am able to get the turn 1 attack off, I choose to go second when I can.
Friends and Other Techs
Mimikyu / Sudowoodo / Buzzwole / Nihilego
[cardimg name=”Mimikyu” set=”Team Up” no=”112″ align=”right” c=”none”][/cardimg]
These different attackers are useful in various matchups to ensure that the Prize exchange is favored. Fairy [card name=”Mimikyu” set=”Team Up” no=”112″ c=”name”][/card] is my favorite; it is used against ADP, [card name=”Garchomp and Giratina-GX” set=”Unified Minds” no=”146″ c=”name”][/card], or any other big Dragon threat. [card name=”Sudowoodo” set=”BREAKpoint” no=”67″ c=”name”][/card] and [card name=”Buzzwole” set=”Forbidden Light” no=”77″ c=”name”][/card] are used against Turbo Dark and Pikarom to score a OHKO. Finally, [card name=”Nihilego” set=”Lost Thunder” no=”106″ c=”name”][/card] is used against everything since it can copy powerful GX attacks with Nightcap. Something to keep in mind is that both Mimikyu and Sudowoodo can Knock Out Zacian V by copying Brave Blade — a play I often use against Turbo Metal.
Beast Energy Prism Star
Beast Energy goes hand in hand with the Ultra Beast package; it allows Buzzwole to hit 150 damage on a Sledgehammer turn, which is enough to KO a [card name=”Greninja and Zoroark-GX” set=”Unbroken Bonds” no=”107″ c=”name”][/card] with Weakness. In addition, it acts as an extra Energy for Nihilego. Finally, under extreme circumstances, it allows Ultra Necrozma to reach 230 damage, which is an OHKO on a Zacian V or [card name=”Zoroark-GX” set=”Shining Legends” no=”53″ c=”name”][/card].
Pokemon Ranger
[card name=”Pokémon Ranger” set=”Steam Siege” no=”113″ c=”name”][/card] is necessary to reset Altered Creation GX, which would be a huge issue otherwise. Also, it gets around any attacks restricting Special Energy, like [card name=”Noivern-GX” set=”Burning Shadows” no=”99″ c=”name”][/card]’s Sonic Volume. It also helps against any decks running [card name=”Jolteon-EX” set=”Generations” no=”28″ c=”name”][/card] or [card name=”Seismitoad-EX” set=”Furious Fists” no=”20″ c=”name”][/card]. Overall, I would always run Pokemon Ranger in Expanded since the variance in the meta shifts quickly and a large number of decks can be countered with a single copy.
Two Great Catcher
As in baby Blacephalon, Great Catcher is an amazing card that allows you to close games or take on a threat early. I always use Great Catcher for 3-4 Prizes on a combination of two [card name=”Shaymin-EX” set=”Roaring Skies” no=”77″ c=”name”][/card], Dedenne-GX, or [card name=”Tapu Lele-GX” set=”Guardians Rising” no=”60″ c=”name”][/card]. Using [card name=”Teammates” set=”Primal Clash” no=”141″ c=”name”][/card] to grab a Great Catcher and a combo piece need is a strong play.
Other Options + How to Play
Stealthy Hood
[card name=”Stealthy Hood” set=”Unbroken Bonds” no=”186″ c=”name”][/card] would help against any [card name=”Rowlet and Alolan Exeggutor-GX” set=”Unified Minds” no=”1″ c=”name”][/card] decks running [card name=”Vileplume” set=”Burning Shadows” no=”6″ c=”name”][/card] BUS. Theoretically, the inclusion of [card name=”Wobbuffet” set=”Radiant Collection 2″ no=”RC11″ c=”name”][/card] and a Stealthy Hood or two should beat EggRow, but I will need to test more. In general, Stealthy Hood does not provide much value and tends to be overshadowed by more versatile techs like Pokemon Ranger.
Energy Loto
I have never had trouble finding Energy, yet [card name=”Energy Loto” set=”Guardians Rising” no=”122″ c=”name”][/card] would solve this problem if I did. I prefer to run [card name=”Guzma and Hala” set=”Cosmic Eclipse” no=”193″ c=”name”][/card] and Teammates as ways to find Energy, however, feel free to run an Energy Loto over Guzma & Hala if you would like to.
2-1/1 Garbodor
There is merit to running a thin Garbodor line with both Garbotoxin as well as [card name=”Garbodor” set=”Guardians Rising” no=”51″ c=”custom”]Trashalanche[/card], but I focused on consistency. In the late game without Octillery, the deck struggles to find a [card name=”Guzma” set=”Burning Shadows” no=”115″ c=”name”][/card] or [card name=”Double Dragon Energy” set=”Roaring Skies” no=”97″ c=”name”][/card] or such. If I were to include a line, I would cut the Octillery line for a 2-1-1 line of Garbodor and cut [card name=”Ultra Ball” set=”Dark Explorers” no=”102″ c=”name”][/card] for [card name=”Mysterious Treasure” set=”Forbidden Light” no=”113″ c=”name”][/card]. In addition, one would have to cut Beast Energy for a [card name=”Rainbow Energy” set=”Celestial Storm” no=”151″ c=”name”][/card] (remember [card name=”Counter Energy” set=”Crimson Invasion” no=”100″ c=”name”][/card] still works on Garbodor GUR). In order to beat EggRow with a Garbodor line, one would have to cut something for a Wobbuffet, likely a Great Catcher or [card name=”Float Stone” set=”BREAKthrough” no=”137″ c=”name”][/card]. Overall, the benefits compared to the costs of running Garbodor is not a good trade; I am fond of maximizing consistency for Regional tournaments.
Try to always set up a turn 2 Octillery, since the deck never fails to require a piece for a Knock Out. Make sure to thin the deck properly, since a late game [card name=”N” set=”Noble Victories” no=”92″ c=”name”][/card] by the opponent can still brick your hands. Conserve [card name=”Silent Lab” set=”Primal Clash” no=”140″ c=”name”][/card] as it is your most important resource; use [card name=”Field Blower” set=”Guardians Rising” no=”125″ c=”name”][/card] on any [card name=”Chaotic Swell” set=”Cosmic Eclipse” no=”187″ c=”name”][/card].
[premium]
Matchups
Roxie / TinaChomp – Favored
Mimikyu puts in work and should take a one-hit Knock Out on a TinaChomp. Save your Silent Labs and Field Blowers for the inevitable Chaotic Swell. This matchup is easy since there is not much in a [card name=”Roxie” set=”Cosmic Eclipse” no=”205″ c=”name”][/card] / TinaChomp deck that can deal with three or four Ultra Necrozma back to back. If the opponent runs [card name=”Acerola” set=”Burning Shadows” no=”112″ c=”name”][/card], they won’t be able to consistently loop it, since Luster of Downfall will discard the opponent’s Double Dragon Energy. Furthermore, requiring two manual attachments to attack for both Garchomp and Giratina-GX and [card name=”Naganadel and Guzzlord-GX” set=”Cosmic Eclipse” no=”158″ c=”name”][/card] reduces the value of Acerola for the opponent. Go second if possible.
Gardevoir and Sylveon-GX – Unfavored
I would include a [card name=”Cobalion” set=”Steam Siege” no=”74″ c=”name”][/card] for [card name=”Gardevoir and Sylveon-GX” set=”Unbroken Bonds” no=”130″ c=”name”][/card] (Gardeon) if I was worried about facing any. Zacian V’s addition to Expanded will decrease Gardeon’s popularity. Yet, if one still plays against a Gardeon, try to spam N and attacks so that the Gardeon player cannot [card name=”Max Potion” set=”Guardians Rising” no=”128″ c=”name”][/card] away damage. Go second if possible.
Alolan Exeggutor and Rowlet-GX – Unfavored
[cardimg name=”Rowlet and Alolan Exeggutor-GX” set=”Unified Minds” no=”1″ align=”right” c=”none”][/cardimg]
Unfortunately, without Stealthy Hood or a Garbodor line there is no chance for the Ultra Necrozma player. The best play is to try to rush the opponent before any Vileplume BUS come into play. This means using Guzma on all [card name=”Oddish” set=”Unbroken Bonds” no=”5″ c=”name”][/card] and using N to disrupt the opponent. Go second if possible.
Zoroark-GX / Garbodor – Favored
Buzzwole will help in taking a one-shot on a Zoroark-GX. Typically, I then chase down any Tapu Lele-GXs or Dedenne-GXs to get the last four Prize cards. With the new Supporter rule, Zoroark’s popularity will decrease because there will be no turn 1 [card name=”Brigette” set=”BREAKthrough” no=”134″ c=”name”][/card] available. Go first if possible.
Regirock / Sableye – Even
[card name=”Regirock” set=”XY Black Star Promos” no=”XY49″ c=”name”][/card] / [card name=”Sableye” set=”Dark Explorers” no=”62″ c=”name”][/card] is close since the deck typically runs Special Energy removal. However, being able to remove [card name=”Strong Energy” set=”Fates Collide” no=”115″ c=”name”][/card] or other Energy on Regirock ourselves through Luster of Downfall allows for an opening. I expect Regirock / Sableye to also get hit hard by the new Supporter rule — preventing any Green’s Exploration on turn 1. Go second if possible.
Trevenant and Dusknoir-GX / Gengar and Mimikyu-GX Hand Control – Favored
Against the hand control mess Trevenant and Dusknoir-GX with [card name=”Gengar and Mimikyu-GX” set=”Team Up” no=”165″ c=”name”][/card] and [card name=”Milotic” set=”Flashfire” no=”23″ c=”name”][/card], slap down Silent Lab as fast as a cat chases a laser. With Octillery, the matchup is a breeze, but prioritize getting both [card name=”Remoraid” set=”BREAKthrough” no=”32″ c=”name”][/card] in play in case of Guzma. Go first if possible.
Turbo Dark – Favored
Sudowoodo and Buzzwole will be the MVPs in this matchup. Remember that when using Sudowoodo to copy Dark Pulse on Zoroark and Greninja-GX, you need a Choice Band AND a Double Dragon or Beast Energy on a Pokemon on the Bench to reach 150 or 180 damage. Great Catche targets down any stray Shaymin-EXs or such. Swing with Ultra Necrozma onto opposing attackers with lots of Energy. Go second if possible.
Mirror – Even
This is a slugfest in all its glory. Trade attackers unless you can’t attack in a turn. If the opponent is winning the Prize race, use N to brick your opponent while using Octillery on your side to draw. A possible move to catch the opponent off guard is to use a non-Ultra Necrozma attacker while using Field Blower on any Silent Lab to prevent a response knockout from an opponent’s Ultra Necrozma. Go second if possible to get the first Knock Out.
Mewtwo and Mew-GX – Very Favored
Expanded Mewtwo and Mew-GX works much differently than in Standard. Instead of trying to outmuscle the opponent, the Expanded version runs [card name=”Dimension Valley” set=”Phantom Forces” no=”93″ c=”name”][/card] and many types of “wall” Pokemon, one of which is Noivern-GX. However, with Pokemon Ranger and the huge amount of Silent Lab, it is a cruel world for any Mewtwo player. There is almost no hope for the opponent unless the Ultra Necrozma player draws extremely poorly. Go second if possible.
Vespiquen / Flareon
Ultra Necrozma is pure power and speed, but forgoes a few matchups, notably Alolan Exeggutor and Rowlet-GX (EggRow). Yet, the next deck destroys any EggRow thanks to Weakness from Flareon PLF. More retro, Vespiquen / Flareon is in a great spot right now in the Expanded format. There is little [card name=”Oricorio” set=”Guardians Rising” no=”56″ c=”name”][/card] GUR and [card name=”Karen” set=”XY Black Star Promos” no=”XY177″ c=”name”][/card] being played, which previously kept the archetype in check. Finally, with Dedenne-GX and Shaymin-EX, the deck can be explosive when needed.
Here’s the list based off of Grant Manley’s Portland finish:
[decklist name=”Flareon / Vespiquen” amt=”60″ caption=””undefined][pokemon amt=”26″]4x [card name=”Flareon” set=”Plasma Freeze” no=”12″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Eevee” set=”Ultra Prism” no=”105″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]3x [card name=”Vespiquen” set=”Ancient Origins” no=”10″ c=”deck2″ amt=”3″][/card]4x [card name=”Combee” set=”Ancient Origins” no=”9″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Unown” set=”Ancient Origins” no=”30″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]1x [card name=”Oranguru” set=”Sun and Moon” no=”113″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]2x [card name=”Galarian Zigzagoon” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”117″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]1x [card name=”Mimikyu” set=”Cosmic Eclipse” no=”97″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Wobbuffet” set=”Phantom Forces” no=”36″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Dedenne-GX” set=”Unbroken Bonds” no=”57″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Shaymin-EX” set=”Roaring Skies” no=”77″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card][/pokemon][trainers amt=”28″]3x [card name=”Professor Sycamore” set=”XY” no=”122″ c=”deck2″ amt=”3″][/card]1x [card name=”N” set=”Noble Victories” no=”92″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Teammates” set=”Primal Clash” no=”141″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Guzma” set=”Burning Shadows” no=”115″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Pokémon Ranger” set=”Steam Siege” no=”104″ c=”deck2″ divide=”yes” amt=”1″][/card]4x [card name=”VS Seeker” set=”Phantom Forces” no=”109″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Ultra Ball” set=”Dark Explorers” no=”102″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Battle Compressor” set=”Phantom Forces” no=”92″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]2x [card name=”Choice Band” set=”Guardians Rising” no=”121″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]1x [card name=”Float Stone” set=”Plasma Freeze” no=”99″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Quick Ball” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”179″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Field Blower” set=”Guardians Rising” no=”125″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Special Charge” set=”Steam Siege” no=”105″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Computer Search” set=”Boundaries Crossed” no=”137″ c=”deck2″ divide=”yes” amt=”1″][/card]2x [card name=”Parallel City” set=”BREAKthrough” no=”145″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card][/trainers][energy amt=”6″]4x [card name=”Double Colorless Energy” set=”HeartGold and SoulSilver” no=”103″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]2x [card name=”Triple Acceleration Energy” set=”Unbroken Bonds” no=”190″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card][/energy][/decklist]
Again, I focused on consistency and speed over fancy techs. Since it is a SPAD, the deck’s goal is to just keep slamming the opponent with attacks and gradually build up to taking OHKOs.
Two Galarian Zigzagoon
As an old saying goes somewhere, “A little bit of spice makes the medicine go down.” [card name=”Galarian Zigzagoon” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”117″ c=”name”][/card] is certainly spicy but also doubles as a great damage booster. The strategy works well with [card name=”Parallel City” set=”BREAKthrough” no=”145″ c=”name”][/card] to get “double” value as a Pokemon in the discard. I find myself benching Galarian Zigzagoon to get Knock Outs on turn 2 on Pokemon like Zoroark-GX or Tapu Lele-GX. It also has great synergy with Mimikyu CEC.
1 Mimikyu CEC
Mimikyu CEC is our answer to Mewtwo and Mew-GX in Expanded, no matter the variant. It also has huge value versus Zoroark-GX or [card name=”Weavile-GX” set=”Unified Minds” no=”132″ c=”name”][/card] to shut off Trade or Shadow Connection. It gives an out to [card name=”Honchkrow-GX” set=”Unbroken Bonds” no=”109″ c=”name”][/card]’s Rule of the Night as well. Against other decks, I find myself pitching Mimikyu with [card name=”Battle Compressor” set=”Phantom Forces” no=”92″ c=”name”][/card] to boost Vengeance or Bee Revenge.
One Wobbuffet
Wobbuffet is a great inclusion since it builds up our damage as well as wins the RowEgg matchup through Bide Barricade. In a pinch, Wobbuffet stops decks like [card name=”Archie’s Ace in the Hole” set=”Primal Clash” no=”124″ c=”custom”]Archie[/card] ’s [card name=”Blastoise” set=”Boundaries Crossed” no=”31″ c=”name”][/card] or Zacian V from being too explosive on turn 1.
One Pokemon Ranger
Again, Pokemon Ranger is an out to any Special Energy hate as well as ADP’s Altered Creation GX. If you find that those two threats are not an issue, feel free take it out for another Pokemon.
Two Triple Acceleration Energy
I chose [card name=”Triple Acceleration Energy” set=”Unbroken Bonds” no=”190″ c=”name”][/card] over Counter Energy or anything else to be my “extra” Energy. Since our deck is focused on getting the Turn 2 attack, I wanted a heavy count of Energy to maximize consistency.
Two Parallel City
Parallel City goes hand-in-hand with a few of the Bench sitters. I tend to discard Galarian Zigzagoon, Dedenne-GX, and Shaymin-EX off my Bench with the effect of Parallel City to boost damage output.
Other Options
Great Catcher
For all the lauded reasons, Great Catcher is an amazing card. I simply couldn’t fit one in, but being able to take a cheesy Knock Out on a Shaymin-EX or Dedenne-GX might make cutting a few cards worth the pain. If I were to add Great Catcher, I would cut either Pokemon Ranger or Mimikyu.
Power Plant
[card name=”Power Plant” set=”Unbroken Bonds” no=”183″ c=”name”][/card] is a great card to have, but I think Mimikyu does the job a tad bit better. Not being able to recover Abilities off of a Stadium bump is strong. In addition, Parallel City boosts damage output.
Girafarig
[cardimg name=”Girafarig” set=”Lost Thunder” no=”94″ align=”right” c=”none”][/cardimg]
Girafarig could be extremely helpful against any stall or mill decks to remove Faba from the opponent’s arsenal as well as getting rid of any Acerola against TAG TEAM decks. Against Mewtwo and Mew, it can be extremely helpful and might be worth the Pokemon Ranger slot if you expect a lot of Mewtwo. It also is a Pokemon and can boost Vengeance or Bee Revenge.
Counter Energy package
Like in Ultra Necrozma, a few different attackers and a couple of Counter Energy can be strong in a SPAD. The list above has been optimized for consistency, but I definitely could see success in adding a Fairy Mimikyu, Sudowoodo, and two Counter Energy for any ADP, TinaChomp, Turbo Dark, or Zacian V. I would cut Triple Acceleration Energy, a Combee, and a Galarian Zigzagoon.
Matchups
Roxie / TinaChomp – Favored
Pressuring early with attacks is necessary to force the opponent to dig using Roxie. Unfortunately, Acerola hurts, so use N to try to force them to not be able to use Acerola as their Supporter of turn. Once you get a TAG TEAM knockout, pick off easy Prizes with Guzma. Go first if possible.
Gardeon – Even to Slightly Unfavored
Since Gardeon has huge HP and a lot of healing, this matchup is tough. Pick off [card name=”Aromatisse” set=”XY” no=”93″ c=”name”][/card] as fast as you can. Late game, spam N and eventually they will run out of healing and/or Energy. Go first if possible.
EggRow – Very Favored
With Wobbuffet and Flareon hitting for Weakness, there is not much an EggRow player can do. Make sure not to get caught without a switch card so that the opponent cannot Guzma stall a Pokemon Active. Go second if possible.
Zoroark-GX / Garbodor – Very Favored
The Mimikyu and Galarian Zigzagoon combo paired with N works beautifully in this matchup. Unless the Zoroark player runs an Oricorio or Karen, you can clean up by just oneshotting Zoroarks. Go first if possible.
Regirock Sableye – Even to Unfavored
With the new Supporter rule, Regirock Sableye should struggle early: use this time to strike. Since Field Blower does not affect Regirock, there is not much else to do other than to blitzkrieg the opponent. Go first if possible.
Hand Control with Trevenant Dusknoir – Favored
Save [card name=”Unown” set=”Ancient Origins” no=”30″ c=”name”][/card] and [card name=”Oranguru” set=”Sun and Moon Black Star Promos” no=”SM13″ c=”name”][/card] on your Bench to recover from any Night Watch attacks. If the Vespiquen player attacks, there is nothing the Trevenant & Dusknoir player can do to stop the onslaught. Go first if possible.
Turbo Dark – Even to Slightly Favored
Typically, the Turbo Dark player’s strategy is to use [card name=”Guzzlord-GX” set=”Crimson Invasion” no=”63″ c=”name”][/card]’s Glutton GX or baby [card name=”Guzzlord” set=”Cosmic Eclipse” no=”136″ c=”name”][/card]’s Red Banquet to take multiple Prizes. The opponent not being able to move Energy around due to Mimikyu and Galarian Zigzagoon will give the Vespiquen player an edge by restricting any Guzzlord. Go first if possible.
Baby Ultra Necrozma – Even
Try to trade one to one in attackers, and get the opponent to whiff an attack at some point. Unfortunately, since Vespiquen is an Evolution deck and Ultra Necrozma is not, the early game probably will let the Ultra Necrozma player draw first blood. Use Parallel City to limit the Bench of the opponent and target any Octillery. Late game, utilize N to help brick your opponent. Go first if possible.
Mewtwo and Mew-GX – Favored
With Mimikyu, the Mewtwo and Mew player oftentimes cannot attack. Take advantage of these turns to take Knock Outs. Go first if possible.
Conclusion
Vespiquen / Flareon has a lot of the same matchups as Ultra Necrozma, except for its EggRow matchup which is a breeze thanks to Flareon. However, this comes at a sacrifice since Ultra Necrozma has more speed and more consistency. Expanded SPADs are well-positioned; with the right tweaks, they can take down large TAG TEAM decks and go toe-to-toe with other styles. To sum it up, small is good! With small attackers like Baby Blacephalon or Ultra Necrozma, streaming powerful attacks is too much to handle for many decks. In an aggressive meta with fast cards like Quick Ball and Professor’s Research, being small means that one will win in the Prize race. For OCIC, I would certainly run Baby Blacephalon to counter a multi-Prize meta and for Collinsville, I would run Baby Ultra Necrozma since its consistency, expected matchups, and skill ceiling all fit together wonderfully.
Until next time,
-Blaine
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