Tera Box — Now Insane With Surging Sparks
Hello to all PokeBeach readers, this is Gabriel Semedo again with another Pokemon TCG article. This time, I want to talk about a new deck that I’m currently working on: the Tera Box deck.
I’ve been playing the previous format for a long time, starting with one of the first Regional Championships of the season, the Joinville Regionals, until Stellar Crown. The last tournament I played in this format was the Latin America International Championships (LAIC), so I almost didn’t take the time to explore the Surging Sparks cards. I only really started learning about all the cards in the new set as soon as I drew my last game on Day 2 of LAIC to secure my Top 128 finish in the competition. That achievement earned me 120 CPs and two Surging Sparks Brazilian booster boxes. And that was it — it was precisely through these two boxes that I began to familiarise myself with the new cards. I was literally opening boosters, reading, and learning about the new Pokemon and Trainer cards. Normally, I read through the cards in a new set up to a month before their release, so getting to know the cards right away in this manner was a different and really enjoyable experience.
[cardimg name=”Teal Mask Ogerpon ex” set=”Twilight Masquerade” no=”211″ align=”right” c=”none”][/cardimg]
After LAIC, I took some time to read through all of Surging Sparks, compiled a buylist of the cards I wanted to add to my collection, and began developing a deck idea I’d attempted before but hadn’t yet perfected. In fact, the Tera Box deck was initially something I was trying to prepare for use at LAIC, but it didn’t turn out as strong as I had hoped, which led me to stick with [card name=”Regidrago VSTAR” set=”Silver Tempest” no=”136″ c=”name”][/card]. However, it seems that with Surging Sparks, the missing pieces for my Tera Box deck have finally arrived, making this the perfect opportunity to present the idea in this article.
With at least 20 highly competitive decks in the current metagame, the format hardly needs a 21st viable deck. However, since Tera Box was already 90% developed before LAIC and I had shelved the idea due to missing pieces, the arrival of the perfect cards to complete this puzzle compelled me to revisit and refine it. I believe the deck’s concept is compelling enough to be worth sharing.
The Tera Box deck revolves around incorporating various Pokemon of different types with diverse attacks to provide as many answers as possible to the broad challenges of this metagame. Since it’s a list that embraces numerous Pokemon in a single deck, finding a perfect balance remains elusive. There are countless options to experiment with — I’ve already tested many, but there’s still a lot of ideas to explore.
The deck’s key mechanic involves using [card name=”Teal Mask Ogerpon ex” set=”Twilight Masquerade” no=”211″ c=”name”][/card] to accelerate Energy, which opens up opportunities for several strong attackers, the main one in my Tera Box list being [card name=”Raikou V” set=”Brilliant Stars” no=”48″ c=”name”][/card]. The combination of Grass-type Ogerpon and [card name=”Energy Switch” set=”Silver Tempest” no=”212″ c=”name”][/card] is already a well-established mechanic in Regidrago VSTAR, and I’ve come to appreciate it. This mechanic avoids the uncertainty of using [card name=”Electric Generator” set=”Scarlet and Violet” no=”170″ c=”name”][/card], which is typically used in Lightning-type focused decks, and it also circumvents the Lost Box strategy, as that approach struggles against [card name=”Kyurem” set=”Shrouded Fable” no=”47″ c=”name”][/card].
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Tera Box Deck List
[decklist name=”Tera Box” amt=”60″ caption=”” cname=”Klefki” set=”Scarlet and Violet” no=”96″][pokemon amt=”16″]3x [card name=”Teal Mask Ogerpon ex” set=”Twilight Masquerade” no=”25″ c=”deck2″ amt=”3″][/card]2x [card name=”Raikou V” set=”Brilliant Stars” no=”48″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]1x [card name=”Pikachu ex” set=”Surging Sparks” no=”219″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Terapagos ex” set=”Stellar Crown” no=”128″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Iron Hands ex” set=”Paradox Rift” no=”70″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Latias ex” set=”Surging Sparks” no=”76″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Mew ex” set=”151″ no=”151″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Fezandipiti ex” set=”Shrouded Fable” no=”38″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Lumineon V” set=”Brilliant Stars” no=”40″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Squawkabilly ex” set=”Paldea Evolved” no=”169″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Radiant Greninja” set=”Astral Radiance” no=”46″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Iron Bundle” set=”Paradox Rift” no=”56″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Klefki” set=”Scarlet and Violet” no=”96″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card][/pokemon][trainers amt=”32″]3x [card name=”Iono” set=”Paldea Evolved” no=”185″ c=”deck2″ amt=”3″][/card]3x [card name=”Boss’s Orders” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”154″ c=”deck2″ amt=”3″][/card]2x [card name=”Professor’s Research” set=”Celebrations” no=”24″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]1x [card name=”Arven” set=”Scarlet and Violet” no=”166″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Crispin” set=”Stellar Crown” no=”133″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Kieran” set=”Twilight Masquerade” no=”154″ c=”deck2″ divide=”yes” amt=”1″][/card]4x [card name=”Nest Ball” set=”Scarlet and Violet” no=”181″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Energy Switch” set=”Sun and Moon” no=”117″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]3x [card name=”Ultra Ball” set=”Dark Explorers” no=”102″ c=”deck2″ amt=”3″][/card]2x [card name=”Earthen Vessel” set=”Paradox Rift” no=”163″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]2x [card name=”Super Rod” set=”Paldea Evolved” no=”188″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]1x [card name=”Hisuian Heavy Ball” set=”Astral Radiance” no=”146″ c=”deck2″ divide=”yes” amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Forest Seal Stone” set=”Silver Tempest” no=”156″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Sparkling Crystal” set=”Stellar Crown” no=”142″ c=”deck2″ divide=”yes” amt=”1″][/card]3x [card name=”Area Zero Underdepths” set=”Stellar Crown” no=”131″ c=”deck2″ amt=”3″][/card][/trainers][energy amt=”12″]5x [card name=”Grass Energy” set=”Guardians Rising” no=”167″ c=”deck2″ amt=”5″][/card]3x [card name=”Lightning Energy” set=”Guardians Rising” no=”168″ c=”deck2″ amt=”3″][/card]2x [card name=”Water Energy” set=”EX Ruby and Sapphire” no=”106″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]1x [card name=”Metal Energy” set=”Diamond and Pearl” no=”130″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Luminous Energy” set=”Paldea Evolved” no=”191″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card][/energy][/decklist]
Card Breakdown
Raikou V Is Shining in the Format
This list fully capitalises on [card name=”Raikou V” set=”Crown Zenith GG” no=”GG41″ c=”name”][/card]’s strengths, making it the deck’s primary attacker. With a strong and straightforward attack that can be executed on the first turn, Raikou V takes advantage of its Lightning-type to exploit the Weakness of [card name=”Lugia VSTAR” set=”Silver Tempest” no=”211″ c=”name”][/card], [card name=”Origin Form Palkia VSTAR” set=”Astral Radiance” no=”208″ c=”name”][/card], and [card name=”Pidgeot ex” set=”Paldean Fates” no=”221″ c=”name”][/card]. Its reliable Ability aids consistency, it synergises well with [card name=”Forest Seal Stone” set=”Silver Tempest” no=”156″ c=”name”][/card], and with [card name=”Area Zero Underdepths” set=”Stellar Crown” no=”174″ c=”name”][/card], it can hit for an average of 240 to 280 damage. These qualities make Raikou V an exceptional choice, leading me to include two copies. It’s a versatile Pokemon that remains impactful from the beginning to the end of the game.
Grass-Type Ogerpon Provides Consistent Energy Acceleration
Here’s where the list diverges from others: I rely on [card name=”Teal Mask Ogerpon ex” set=”Twilight Masquerade” no=”211″ c=”name”][/card] for Energy acceleration. Typically, Raikou V is used in [card name=”Miraidon ex” set=”Scarlet and Violet” no=”244″ c=”name”][/card] or Lost Box decks, as these decks can power it up in a single turn. However, Miraidon decks depend heavily on [card name=”Electric Generator” set=”Scarlet and Violet” no=”170″ c=”name”][/card], a card with inconsistent results — you might use four in one turn and still not get any Energy. Lost Box decks, on the other hand, rely on [card name=”Comfey” set=”Lost Origin” no=”79″ c=”name”][/card] and [card name=”Colress’s Experiment” set=”Lost Origin” no=”190″ c=”name”][/card], which often spell defeat against the best deck in format, [card name=”Regidrago VSTAR” set=”Silver Tempest” no=”136″ c=”name”][/card].
While the Ability is critical to the deck’s functionality, Teal Mask Ogerpon ex also shines as an attacker, mainly to Knock Out [card name=”Charizard ex” set=”Obsidian Flames” no=”223″ c=”name”][/card] and [card name=”Hydreigon ex” set=”Surging Sparks” no=”240″ c=”name”][/card].
Pikachu Ex Delivers High Damage That the Deck Previously Lacked
[cardimg name=”Pikachu ex” set=”Surging Sparks” no=”238″ align=”right” c=”none”][/cardimg]
I had been working on this deck since the previous format, aiming for the perfect list to use at the Latin America International Championships. However, I ultimately achieved Top 128 with the reliable Regidrago VSTAR.
One of the key reasons I felt my Tera Box list wasn’t ready for such an important tournament was its inability to deliver high damage. This was especially crucial for Knocking Out Pokemon like Regidrago VSTAR. While the list had reached a respectable level of power and consistency, it lacked the firepower needed for critical Knock Outs. [card name=”Pikachu ex” set=”Surging Sparks” no=”238″ c=”name”][/card] solved this issue entirely. In fact, it exceeded expectations with its incredible Ability.
If the opponent doesn’t have an effective way to bypass Pikachu ex’s Resolute Heart Ability, it can endure two attacks without the opponent getting a Prize card. Not only can Pikachu ex Knock Out virtually anything, but it can also survive any attack damage, which can completely swing the momentum of a match.
Against [card name=”Gholdengo ex” set=”Paradox Rift” no=”252″ c=”name”][/card], I’ve won games in my local leagues solely because of Pikachu ex. Its Ability allows it to Knock Out opponents while remaining on the field was a game-changer. This principle applies across all decks that struggle to counter Resolute Heart, whether by using [card name=”Radiant Alakazam” set=”Silver Tempest” no=”59″ c=”name”][/card] to move damage or [card name=”Canceling Cologne” set=”Astral Radiance” no=”136″ c=”name”][/card] to disable the Ability. In numerous scenarios where I needed to prevent the opponent from taking Prizes for a turn, Pikachu ex proved invaluable as a frontliner.
Iron Hands Is Mandatory for Single-Prize Pokemon
In my initial versions of this deck, I didn’t include [card name=”Iron Hands ex” set=”Paradox Rift” no=”70″ c=”name”][/card] because I thought powering it up would be nearly impossible or that the resource cost would be too high. However, I later realised that with a bit of strategy, it’s not only feasible but also crucial to use Amp You Very Much to secure some victories.
While it’s rare to pull off Amp You Very Much on the first turn — and that’s not the goal anyway — the plan is to execute the attack by the second turn. On the first turn, you attach Energy to Iron Hands, use [card name=”Crispin” set=”Stellar Crown” no=”164″ c=”name”][/card] if possible, and leave [card name=”Klefki” set=”Scarlet and Violet” no=”96″ c=”name”][/card] up front to stall.
Another approach is to start the game with Raikou V and pivot to Iron Hands ex later when you have more time to set it up. In matchups against decks like Lost Box and [card name=”Gardevoir ex” set=”Paldean Fates” no=”233″ c=”name”][/card], this attack can be a game-changer, even if it comes later in the match.
Terapagos Ex Blocks All the Basic Aggro Decks
With all the necessary Energy to use [card name=”Terapagos ex” set=”Stellar Crown” no=”170″ c=”name”][/card]’s Crown Opal second attack, there’s no reason not to include it in the list. This attack can provide much-needed control in matchups against aggressive decks like [card name=”Raging Bolt ex ” set=”Temporal Forces” no=”208″ c=”name”][/card], Miraidon, and [card name=”Gouging Fire ex ” set=”Temporal Forces” no=”204″ c=”name”][/card], even if the opponent has a strong start with a solid setup and early Prizes.
Against Basic Pokemon-focused aggro decks, Tera Box typically faces a 50/50 matchup — whoever takes the first two Prizes often wins. However, Crown Opal can disrupt this cycle if the opponent can’t neutralise Terapagos ex.
Unified Beatdown is a reliable backup attack for the deck, as it’s easy to execute. However, most of the time, Raikou V remains the better attacking option, and Unified Beatdown is reserved for situations where Raikou V can’t attack.
Radiant Greninja Is a Great Attacker for Stage 2 Decks
This Pokemon is already one of the best consistency cards in the game, thanks to its synergy with decks that run plenty of basic Energy. It allows you to draw two cards per turn when needed. What sets [card name=”Radiant Greninja” set=”Astral Radiance” no=”46″ c=”name”][/card] apart in this list is its Moonlight Shuriken attack. While not every deck can utilise it effectively, those that can gain a significant advantage against Stage 2 decks, which are typically challenging matchups for Basic Pokemon-focused strategies like Tera Box.
I’ve tailored this list to enable the use of Moonlight Shuriken with Crispin’s help, as I consider this attack essential for gaining an early advantage against Charizard ex and [card name=”Dragapult ex” set=”Twilight Masquerade” no=”200″ c=”name”][/card]. While Raikou V is usually the go-to attacker, it is not always possible to be aggressive with Raikou V. Strategic Knock Outs with Radiant Greninja can force opponents to focus on your single-Prize Pokemon, extending the match in your favour.
Latias Ex Has an Overpowered Ability Unlike Anything I’ve Seen Before
I never imagined that a card with an Ability like this would be released in 2024, but its impact on the metagame is already evident. The Sacramento Regionals final showcased a Miraidon mirror match, with both players running [card name=”Latias ex” set=”Surging Sparks” no=”239″ c=”name”][/card]. No one anticipated a card like this, but it has significantly boosted decks centered on Basic Pokemon.
Previously, to attack with Miraidon, Raging Bolt, or Gouging Fire on the first turn, you needed to search out one of your two copies of [card name=”Switch Cart” set=”Astral Radiance” no=”154″ c=”name”][/card]. Now, a simple [card name=”Nest Ball” set=”Scarlet and Violet” no=”255″ c=”name”][/card] suffices. Even [card name=”Roaring Moon ex” set=”Paradox Rift” no=”251″ c=”name”][/card] decks, which already run [card name=”Pecharunt ex” set=”Shrouded Fable” no=”39″ c=”name”][/card], now include Latias ex to streamline their strategies. This card has made executing first-turn attacks easier.
Mew Ex Works Like a Mini Bibarel
[cardimg name=”Mew ex” set=”Paldean Fates” no=”232″ align=”right” c=”none”][/cardimg]
This card is a versatile addition to the deck. While it’s a solid attacker in specific situations, such as Knocking Out [card name=”Greninja ex” set=”Twilight Masquerade” no=”214″ c=”name”][/card] by exploiting its Weakness or dealing with troublesome Pokemon like [card name=”Cornerstone Mask Ogerpon ex” set=”Twilight Masquerade” no=”215″ c=”name”][/card] and [card name=”Mimikyu” set=”Paldean Fates” no=”160″ c=”name”][/card], [card name=”Mew ex” set=”Paldean Fates” no=”232″ c=”name”][/card]’s true value lies in its Ability to draw cards.
This deck can easily empty your hand — Pokemon go straight to the Bench, which has eight slots, and Items are usually used immediately. Even Energy cards don’t linger, as they’re often utilised for the Abilities of Teal Mask Ogerpon and Radiant Greninja.
Mew ex’s draw capability significantly enhances consistency. It’s especially useful to keep it on the field until late in the game alongside [card name=”Fezandipiti ex” set=”Shrouded Fable” no=”38″ c=”name”][/card]. Even if one of them gets Knocked Out after an [card name=”Iono” set=”Paldea Evolved” no=”269″ c=”name”][/card] play, the other remains to keep your draw engine running.
Squawkabilly Ex Allows a Strong Turn 1
For decks that aim to attack on the first turn, [card name=”Squawkabilly ex” set=”Paldea Evolved” no=”264″ c=”name”][/card] is indispensable for gaining an early advantage.
An often-overlooked aspect of Squawkabilly ex is its Motivate attack. Whenever you can use it without setting yourself back, it’s worth doing. This attack helps prepare more potent attackers like Radiant Greninja, Iron Hands ex, or Pikachu ex for critical plays. Against slower decks such as Pidgeot control, [card name=”Banette ex” set=”Scarlet and Violet” no=”229″ c=”name”][/card], or [card name=”Iron Thorns ex” set=”Twilight Masquerade” no=”196″ c=”name”][/card], Motivate can also be a useful attack.
Fezandipiti Ex Is Everywhere
This Pokemon has become a staple in every competitive deck right now, simply because its Ability to draw three cards is invaluable in the current format. In Tera Box, its role is no different — this deck thrives on every extra draw it can get.
Teal Mask Ogerpon ex draws one card, Radiant Greninja draws two, Raikou V draws one, and Mew ex can draw up to three. But Fezandipiti ex consistently draws three cards whenever a Pokemon is Knocked Out, making it the best draw power in the deck.
Lumineon V Searches the Right Supporter at the Right Time
This card is a vital inclusion because there are moments in a game where missing a key Supporter is not an option.
Early on, you might need Crispin or [card name=”Boss’s Orders” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”189″ c=”name”][/card] to Knock Out a critical Pokemon like [card name=”Lugia V” set=”Silver Tempest” no=”186″ c=”name”][/card]. Later in the game, you’ll likely want Boss’s Orders or [card name=”Professor’s Research” set=”Celebrations” no=”23″ c=”name”][/card] to close out the match. [card name=”Lumineon V” set=”Brilliant Stars” no=”156″ c=”name”][/card] ensures you can fetch these Supporters exactly when you need them.
Iron Bundle Offers an Easy Gust Effect
This is an interesting addition that complements the deck’s first-turn attacking potential. While not as effective as using Boss’s Orders or [card name=”Prime Catcher ” set=”Temporal Forces” no=”157″ c=”name”][/card], there will be moments in a match where [card name=”Iron Bundle” set=”Paradox Rift” no=”56″ c=”name”][/card] will end up working out. If your opponent promotes a single-Prize Pokemon, you can hit them with Iron Hands. For Pokemon with high HP, Pikachu ex is a solid choice.
Iron Bundle’s attack is also a handy counter in one of Tera Box’s toughest matchups: Dragapult ex. Its attack prevents the opponent’s active Stage 2 Pokemon from attacking, forcing them to retreat— a challenge for decks like Dragapult ex or Charizard ex. This tactic not only disrupts your opponent but also shifts the Prize trade in your favour by forcing them to Knock Out a single-Prize Pokemon.
Klefki Saves You From Aggressive Starts
I’m experimenting with one copy of [card name=”Klefki” set=”Paldean Fates” no=”159″ c=”name”][/card]. It’s proving useful for slowing down aggro decks on the first turn. Its Ability can also disrupt any deck that relies on Basic Pokemon with Abilities for their setup.
The strategy is to buy time early in the game so you can prepare more impactful attacks. Use the time Klefki creates to set up Pikachu ex, Iron Hands, or Radiant Greninja — attacks that usually take more than one turn to execute.
The Best Draw Supporters Are Essential for Combos
When it comes to draw Supporters, this deck keeps it simple and focuses on maximising card draw. Since the deck requires a variety of card combinations rather than just one or two specific plays, having plenty of draw Supporters is critical.
Professor’s Research ensures you’ll likely have the resources to make a strong or reasonable play, even if it doesn’t guarantee the exact Pokemon or move you want for the turn. This deck alternates between solid and exceptional turns, with very few bad ones. Often, choosing a reasonable turn over an aggressive one pays off, setting you up for a powerful late-game play like pulling off a surprise Pikachu ex attack.
Arven Helps Execute Technical, Consistent Plays
Sometimes, you need a Supporter that doesn’t disrupt your hand (as Professor’s Research or Iono might). In these moments, [card name=”Arven” set=”Paldean Fates” no=”235″ c=”name”][/card] shines by adding value without altering either player’s hand.
Arven is perfect for situations where you already have a good setup and just need one or two cards to complete your plan. It can search for critical Pokemon Tool cards like Forest Seal Stone or [card name=”Sparkling Crystal” set=”Stellar Crown” no=”142″ c=”name”][/card], making it an invaluable for the deck.
Never Miss a Boss Opportunity
At one point, this list included only two copies of [card name=”Boss’s Orders” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”189″ c=”name”][/card], and while it worked, it often created more complexity than necessary. Now, with three copies, you’re less likely to miss a key moment to take control of the game.
The deck’s variety of attacking options (Radiant Greninja, Pikachu ex, and Iron Hands ex) can sometimes compensate for a missing Boss’s Orders. However, having an extra copy simplifies the game plan, especially when all you need is to take a Knock Out with [card name=”Raikou V” set=”Brilliant Stars” no=”48″ c=”name”][/card] or other attackers to win the game.
Crispin Powers Up Critical Attacks
Crispin is a game-changer for this deck. It’s so impactful that adding a second copy might even be worth considering. This Supporter enables you to perform some of the deck’s most powerful and challenging attacks with ease, giving you access to big plays when needed.
Kieran Unlocks One-Hit Knock Outs
[cardimg name=”Kieran” set=”Twilight Masquerade” no=”218″ align=”right” c=”none”][/cardimg]
This Supporter serves a dual purpose in this deck. As the only switching card, [card name=”Kieran” set=”Twilight Masquerade” no=”218″ c=”name”][/card] counters control decks effectively since it can’t be removed by cards like [card name=”Eri ” set=”Temporal Forces” no=”210″ c=”name”][/card] or [card name=”Miss Fortune Sisters” set=”Lost Origin” no=”194″ c=”name”][/card]. Latias ex, despite being overpowered, has resulted in deck lists not including switching cards.
However, Kieran’s primary use is boosting attack damage. Kieran enables Pikachu ex to deal up to 330 damage, making it possible to Knock Out any Pokemon in the current format, including Dragapult ex.
Eight Balls to Search for Basic Pokemon
This deck’s efficiency hinges on its consistent access to Basic Pokemon, many of which contribute to card draw. With four Nest Ball, three [card name=”Ultra Ball” set=”Brilliant Stars” no=”186″ c=”name”][/card], and one [card name=”Hisuian Heavy Ball” set=”Astral Radiance” no=”146″ c=”name”][/card], you can reliably set up your Bench from the very first turn and immediately take advantage of Abilities for extra draws.
Earthen Vessel is Amazing for Complex Basic Energy Needs
This deck utilises [card name=”Earthen Vessel” set=”Paradox Rift” no=”163″ c=”name”][/card] to its fullest potential. While its effect is undeniably powerful, only two copies are included because the deck already has 12 Energy cards and strong draw capabilities to find additional Energy when needed. Although it might seem tempting to run four copies, the deck doesn’t require that many to function optimally.
Energy Switch Powers Up Attackers
The combination of [card name=”Teal Mask Ogerpon ex” set=”Twilight Masquerade” no=”211″ c=”name”][/card] and [card name=”Energy Switch” set=”Silver Tempest” no=”212″ c=”name”][/card] forms the core of this deck’s Energy acceleration strategy. Without the combination of the two cards, this deck practically does not exist competitively. This combo can be done up to four times, sufficient to make use of all your attacks.
Super Rod Offers Flexible and Reliable Recovery
After testing various alternatives like [card name=”Night Stretcher” set=”Surging Sparks” no=”251″ c=”name”][/card], [card name=”Super Rod” set=”Paldea Evolved” no=”276″ c=”name”][/card] emerged as the more versatile choice. While Night Stretcher has its moments, it often falls short unless you play four copies.
Super Rod returns resources to the deck and this is generally very positive. Returning Energy to the deck means you can play Crispin at the end of the game if you didn’t use it before. It also means you are able to draw more cards using [card name=”Radiant Greninja” set=”Astral Radiance” no=”46″ c=”name”][/card] and Teal Mask Ogerpon ex. With Super Rod, I can return up to three Pokemon to the deck if I’m facing an opponent who uses a lot of Stadium cards, or if they play [card name=”Collapsed Stadium” set=”Lost Origin” no=”215″ c=”name”][/card].
Forest Seal Stone is Amazing When It Works Properly
VSTAR Power will remain relevant as long as good Pokemon V and [card name=”Forest Seal Stone” set=”Silver Tempest” no=”156″ c=”name”][/card] remain in the Standard format. However, the deck must include the right pieces to utilise this Pokemon Tool card effectively.
This list includes two Raikou V and one Lumineon V, offering multiple options to leverage on Forest Seal Stone. Additionally, Arven and Lumineon V make it easy to search for the Tool card when needed, ensuring its impact in crucial moments.
Pikachu Ex and Terapagos ex Are Easier to Power Up With Sparkling Crystal
There are plenty of ACE SPEC cards to choose from for this deck, with many options like [card name=”Secret Box” set=”Twilight Masquerade” no=”163″ c=”name”][/card], Prime Catcher, [card name=”Scramble Switch” set=”Surging Sparks” no=”186″ c=”name”][/card], or [card name=”Legacy Energy” set=”Twilight Masquerade” no=”167″ c=”name”][/card] being viable. However, Sparkling Crystal is currently the best fit as it provides vital support for Pikachu ex, enabling its full potential. For now, the deck prioritises extracting maximum value from this new Pokemon.
Area Zero Improves Setup and Damage
The deck truly shines when it can expand its Bench beyond the traditional five slots. While it is possible to play without [card name=”Area Zero Underdepths” set=”Stellar Crown” no=”174″ c=”name”][/card], the deck becomes significantly stronger and more consistent when this Stadium is in play. Area Zero optimizes both the setup and damage potential, making it an integral part of this list.
Four Energy Types in the Same Deck
Every good Pokemon deck comes with a significant challenge to solve, and for Tera Box, that challenge lies in its Energy count. The goal here is to ensure every Pokemon has enough Energy without overloading or shortchanging any type.
With five Grass Energy, you can consistently Knock Out Charizard ex using Teal Mask Ogerpon ex. It also allows you to set up a second Teal Mask Ogerpon ex to respond to a second Charizard ex if needed.
Three Lightning Energy ensures you can find it comfortably on the first turn, with enough left to power Pikachu ex or Iron Hands ex later in the game.
The two Water Energy represent a minor weak point. Occasionally, you may want to attack with Radiant Greninja, but bad luck might put one Water Energy in your Prize cards. However, this is an acceptable risk since Radiant Greninja’s attack is situational, and opponents can counter with [card name=”Manaphy” set=”Brilliant Stars” no=”41″ c=”name”][/card] in certain matchups.
The single Metal Energy exists solely to enable Pikachu ex’s attacks and has no other purpose in the deck.
Finally, [card name=”Luminous Energy” set=”Twilight Masquerade” no=”226″ c=”name”][/card] serves as a versatile solution to unexpected Energy issues. If a Water Energy is in the Prize cards, Luminous Energy can step in and help you attack with Radiant Greninja’s Moonlight Shuriken. Similarly, it can replace Metal Energy if needed for Pikachu ex.
Final Thoughts
This article has been more in-depth than usual because this deck is likely new to many players. Constructing an anti-meta deck requires precise calculations to ensure it offers robust answers to the format’s main threats. With at least 15 competitive decks capable of winning major tournaments, this Tera Box deck has been designed with strong counters in mind.
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