Thoughts On The Metagame — Top 10 Standard Format Decks

By: Gabriel Pino Semedo · Posted Posted onOct 20, 2021 at 7:04 PM · 0 Comments

Hello PokeBeach readers! For this article I’m not going to go through any specific deck. Instead, I’ve decided analyze the main decks in the Standard format metagame, exploring the strengths and weaknesses of each deck.

It’s been more than a month since the launch of the Evolving Skies, and I felt that the format has been quite explored. I thought it would be a good idea to analyze in detail the decks that make up this metagame to understand where each of them are positioned. Some decks that were considered the best of the previous format such as [card name=”Eternatus VMAX” set=”Darkness Ablaze” no=”117″ c=”name”][/card] and [card name=”Shadow Rider Calyrex VMAX” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”75″ c=”name”][/card] have been lost in the shuffle, both because of cards no longer in the Standard format and due to changes in the metagame. Meanwhile, several other decks have started to emerge, many based on the [card name=”Inteleon” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”43″ c=”name”][/card] line, which provides power and consistency for Pokemon that needed a little help to really shine in competitive play.

In this article, I’m going to do a brief review of 12 decks, which shows how interesting this format is and how creative players are.

Why are Eternatus VMAX and Shadow Rider Calyrex VMAX not good?

Eternatus VMAX

[decklist name=”Eternatus VMAX” amt=”60″ caption=”” cname=”Qwilfish” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”101″][pokemon amt=”22″]4x [card name=”Eternatus VMAX” set=”Darkness Ablaze” no=”117″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Eternatus V” set=”Darkness Ablaze” no=”116″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]3x [card name=”Umbreon VMAX” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”95″ c=”deck2″ amt=”3″][/card]4x [card name=”Umbreon V” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”94″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Crobat V” set=”Darkness Ablaze” no=”104″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]2x [card name=”Galarian Moltres V” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”97″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]1x [card name=”Qwilfish” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”101″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card][/pokemon][trainers amt=”29″]4x [card name=”Professor’s Research” set=”Champion’s Path” no=”62″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]3x [card name=”Marnie” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”169″ c=”deck2″ amt=”3″][/card]2x [card name=”Flannery” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”139″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]2x [card name=”Boss’s Orders” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”154″ c=”deck2″ divide=”yes” amt=”2″][/card]4x [card name=”Quick Ball” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”179″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Great Ball” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”164″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Air Balloon” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”213″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]2x [card name=”Energy Switch” set=”Black and White” no=”94″ c=”deck2″ divide=”yes” amt=”2″][/card]4x [card name=”Tower of Darkness” set=”Battle Styles” no=”137″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card][/trainers][energy amt=”9″]9x [card name=”Darkness Energy” set=”Diamond and Pearl” no=”129″ c=”deck2″ amt=”9″][/card][/energy][/decklist][cardimg name=”Eternatus VMAX” set=”Shining Fates” no=”SV122″ align=”right” c=”none”][/cardimg]

There are two major problems that prevent Eternatus VMAX from shining in the metagame, which are [card name=”Path to the Peak” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”148″ c=”name”][/card] and a Weakness to Fighting-type Pokemon. These problems are compounded because [card name=”Weakness Guard Energy” set=”Unified Minds” no=”213″ c=”name”][/card] is not longer in format and the deck doesn’t have any Stadium options to defend against these threats.

It’s impossible to play without Stadium cards because Path to the Peak stops you from putting eight Pokemon onto the Bench or using [card name=”Crobat V” set=”Darkness Ablaze” no=”104″ c=”name”][/card] to draw cards. The best Stadiums in my opinion are [card name=”Galar Mine” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”160″ c=”name”][/card] and [card name=”Tower of Darkness” set=”Battle Styles” no=”137″ c=”name”][/card], with the most popular Eternatus VMAX lists developing their strategies around either Stadium. The version with Galar Mine has [card name=”Hiding Darkness Energy” set=”Darkness Ablaze” no=”175″ c=”name”][/card], [card name=”Liepard V” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”104″ c=”name”][/card] to remove your opponent’s [card name=”Air Balloon” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”156″ c=”name”][/card], and four copies of [card name=”Switch” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”183″ c=”name”][/card] to stop your opponent from retreating (while you don’t suffer as much). I prefer the version with Tower of Darkness as it is more consistent. I particularly like the Supporter [card name=”Flannery” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”139″ c=”name”][/card] to help remove your opponent’s Stadium cards. Against a deck with four Path to the Peak, I believe that only four Tower of Darkness is not enough and despite being a Supporter, Flannery can save you when necessary. If it’s not needed,  it can be discarded with Tower of Darkness to draw two cards.

There is not much that can be done about Eternatus VMAX’s Fighting-type Weakness. The best way to get around this is to attack with another Pokemon, but [card name=”Umbreon VMAX” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”95″ c=”name”][/card] and [card name=”Galarian Moltres V” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”97″ c=”name”][/card] doesn’t come close.

Shadow Rider Calyrex VMAX / Alcremie VMAX

[decklist name=”Shadow Rider Calyrex VMAX” amt=”60″ caption=”” cname=”Eldegoss V” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”19″][pokemon amt=”16″]4x [card name=”Shadow Rider Calyrex VMAX” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”75″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Shadow Rider Calyrex V” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”74″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]2x [card name=”Alcremie VMAX” set=”Champion’s Path” no=”23″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]2x [card name=”Alcremie V” set=”Champion’s Path” no=”22″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]1x [card name=”Galarian Articuno” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”63″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Cresselia” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”64″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Crobat V” set=”Darkness Ablaze” no=”104″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Eldegoss V” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”19″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card][/pokemon][trainers amt=”31″]3x [card name=”Marnie” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”169″ 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=”Sword and Shield” no=”201″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]2x [card name=”Bird Keeper” set=”Darkness Ablaze” no=”159″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]1x [card name=”Phoebe” set=”Battle Styles” no=”130″ c=”deck2″ divide=”yes” amt=”1″][/card]4x [card name=”Quick Ball” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”179″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Evolution Incense” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”163″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Fog Crystal” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”140″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Air Balloon” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”156″ c=”deck2″ divide=”yes” amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Training Court” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”169″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card][/trainers][energy amt=”13″]13x [card name=”Psychic Energy” set=”EX Ruby and Sapphire” no=”107″ c=”deck2″ amt=”13″][/card][/energy][/decklist]The purple horse has gone from undisputed BDIF in pre-rotation to a questionable deck in the current Standard format. The deck wasn’t able to adapt to the new format after it lost [card name=”Gengar and Mimikyu-GX” set=”Team Up” no=”53″ c=”name”][/card] and [card name=”Marshadow” set=”Unbroken Bonds” no=”81″ c=”name”][/card]. Nowadays I find [card name=”Shadow Rider Calyrex VMAX” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”75″ c=”name”][/card] inconsistent — as much as I draw a lot of cards per turn, it still seems like it’s not enough to make the strong play I want.

Just like every deck loaded with Pokemon V reliant on Abilities, Path to the Peak becomes a big problem, so it is necessary to play a Stadium and/or [card name=”Pumpkaboo” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”76″ c=”name”][/card] to discard Path to the Peak from play. The best Stadium for the deck is [card name=”Training Court” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”169″ c=”name”][/card], as Shadow Rider Calyrex VMAX is a deck about playing as many Psychic Energy cards through Underworld Door to gain power and consistency. Even with four copies of Training Court, you won’t always be able to escape Path to the Peak. Plus, Pumpkaboo is bad compared to Marshadow, as Pumpkaboo doesn’t leave the field when activating its Ability. If you want to get rid of your Pumpkaboo, you will need to use [card name=”Scoop Up Net” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”165″ c=”name”][/card].

Another factor behind Shadow Rider Calyrex VMAX’s drop in popularity is Umbreon VMAX. In addition to Knocking Out the purple horse with one attack, it has the power to pull any of your Pokemon from the Bench to the Active Spot with its Ability. Even if you use [card name=”Alcremie VMAX” set=”Champion’s Path” no=”23″ c=”name”][/card] to hit Umbreon VMAX, the opponent will hardly be forced to attack Alcremie VMAX. If you choose not to play Shadow Rider Calyrex VMAX, you won’t have sufficient Energy to attack with Alcremie VMAX.

It’s a good deck, but I doubt if it has the competitive power needed to survive in the metagame. I also think it’s necessary to find a way to deal with Umbreon VMAX. In one of my articles I mentioned [card name=”Celebi V” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”1″ c=”name”][/card] as a possibility, but [card name=”Leafeon VMAX” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”8″ c=”name”][/card] with Shadow Rider doesn’t seem like a bad idea either.

My Top 10 Standard Format Decks

10. Victini VMAX

[decklist name=”Victini VMAX” amt=”60″ caption=”” cname=”Victini VMAX” set=”Battle Styles” no=”22″][pokemon amt=”8″]4x [card name=”Victini VMAX” set=”Battle Styles” no=”22″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]2x [card name=”Victini V” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”25″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]2x [card name=”Victini V ” set=”Battle Styles” no=”21″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card][/pokemon][trainers amt=”38″]4x [card name=”Professor’s Research” set=”Champion’s Path” no=”62″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Marnie” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”169″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Boss’s Orders” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”154″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Team Yell Grunt” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”184″ 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=”Quick Ball” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”179″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Evolution Incense” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”163″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Crushing Hammer” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”159″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]2x [card name=”Fan of Waves” set=”Battle Styles” no=”127″ c=”deck2″ divide=”yes” amt=”2″][/card]4x [card name=”Path to the Peak” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”148″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card][/trainers][energy amt=”14″]10x [card name=”Fire Energy” set=”EX Ruby and Sapphire” no=”108″ c=”deck2″ amt=”10″][/card]4x [card name=”Heat Fire Energy” set=”Darkness Ablaze” no=”174″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card][/energy][/decklist][cardimg name=”Victini VMAX” set=”Battle Styles” no=”22″ align=”right” c=”none”][/cardimg]

I think it’s amazing that this deck works and gets good results. I’m glad it does. The list is so different from other decks in the format and reminds me a lot of the [card name=”Green’s Exploration” set=”Unbroken Bonds” no=”175″ c=”name”][/card] decks we had in previous formats because the strategy is similar. This is the only deck in my top 10 that doesn’t need any Ability Pokemon, which makes this [card name=”Victini VMAX” set=”Battle Styles” no=”22″ c=”name”][/card] build more special, as well as being the only popular Fire-type deck in the format. The idea is to setup a Victini VMAX with two Energies, while using all the disruptive resources we have to delay the opponent’s game to the point that it is as slow as yours. When that happens, Victini VMAX will shine because it can do a lot of damage needing only a few cards.

I really value a list as differentiated and creative as this one and it shows that deck building in Pokemon TCG has no limits, but it does have several flaws. Its Water-type Weakness makes matchups against [card name=”Suicune V” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”31″ c=”name”][/card] / [card name=”Ludicolo” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”34″ c=”name”][/card] and [card name=”Ice Rider Calyrex VMAX” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”46″ c=”name”][/card] bad. In addition, the deck is inconsistent even though the list has 16 Supporters. Every time your opponent uses [card name=”Marnie” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”169″ c=”name”][/card], it’s anybody’s guess whether you’ll get a new playable hand. If your hand doesn’t turn out the way you need it, you don’t have much of a way out as there’s no [card name=”Drizzile” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”56″ c=”name”][/card] or [card name=”Crobat V” set=”Darkness Ablaze” no=”104″ c=”name”][/card] for you to get out of a difficult situation.

Another Pokemon that has similar characteristics to Victini VMAX is [card name=”Dragapult VMAX” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”93″ c=”name”][/card] . If you want to replace Victini VMAX with Dragapult VMAX, you will have another interesting deck in a similar style — in the same way that Victini VMAX would play smoothly with [card name=”Inteleon” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”43″ c=”name”][/card] too. It is possible to explore several other builds with Victini VMAX, such as a more aggressive version like how it was used in previous formats.

9. Zacian V and Zamazenta V

[decklist name=”Zacian & Zamazenta” amt=”60″ caption=”” cname=”Zacian V” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”138″][pokemon amt=”9″]4x [card name=”Zacian V” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”138″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]2x [card name=”Zamazenta V” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”139″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]2x [card name=”Oranguru” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”148″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]1x [card name=”Crobat V” set=”Darkness Ablaze” no=”104″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card][/pokemon][trainers amt=”39″]4x [card name=”Professor’s Research” set=”Champion’s Path” no=”62″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Marnie” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”169″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Boss’s Orders” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”154″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]2x [card name=”Raihan” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”152″ c=”deck2″ divide=”yes” amt=”2″][/card]4x [card name=”Quick Ball” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”179″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Rotom Phone” set=”Champion’s Path” no=”64″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Switch” set=”Black and White” no=”104″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]1x [card name=”Air Balloon” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”156″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]4x [card name=”Metal Saucer” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”170″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]3x [card name=”Cape of Toughness” set=”Darkness Ablaze” no=”160″ c=”deck2″ amt=”3″][/card]1x [card name=”Tool Scrapper” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”168″ c=”deck2″ divide=”yes” amt=”1″][/card]4x [card name=”Crystal Cave” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”144″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card][/trainers][energy amt=”12″]12x [card name=”Metal Energy” set=”Diamond and Pearl” no=”130″ c=”deck2″ amt=”12″][/card][/energy][/decklist]This deck is basically an updated version of [card name=”Zacian V” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”138″ c=”name”][/card] / [card name=”Lucario and Melmetal-GX” set=”Unbroken Bonds” no=”120″ c=”name”][/card], which lost important cards like the Tag Team Pokemon-GX and [card name=”Metal Goggles” set=”Team Up” no=”148″ c=”name”][/card]. The advantages that the deck had in the past remain and now [card name=”Crystal Cave” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”144″ c=”name”][/card] and [card name=”Cape of Toughness” set=”Darkness Ablaze” no=”160″ c=”name”][/card] give this deck its defensive power, which despite not being as strong as before, still has its value and helps a lot. The deck’s offensive power gained new reinforcements and improved its consistency. Zacian V and [card name=”Zamazenta V” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”139″ c=”name”][/card] can start to attack faster, without having to use Intrepid Sword as much.

Zacian V is still a great attacker and can knock out any Pokemon V from turn 2, while Zamazenta V still causes headaches to your opponent’s Pokemon VMAX decks. [card name=”Path to the Peak” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”148″ c=”name”][/card] is a big problem for the deck but thanks to the four copies of Crystal Cave, it’s possible to deal with this Stadium. As much as this deck’s consistency has improved, it relies on Intrepid Sword and even with four Crystal Cave, a Marnie combo plus Path to the Peak can be devastating and crash your game.

8. Sylveon VMAX

[decklist name=”Sylveon VMAX” amt=”60″ caption=”” cname=”Zeraora V” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”53″][pokemon amt=”23″]3x [card name=”Sylveon VMAX” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”75″ c=”deck2″ amt=”3″][/card]3x [card name=”Sylveon V” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”74″ c=”deck2″ amt=”3″][/card]2x [card name=”Rapid Strike Urshifu VMAX” set=”Battle Styles” no=”170″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]2x [card name=”Rapid Strike Urshifu V” set=”Battle Styles” no=”87″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]2x [card name=”Blaziken VMAX” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”21″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]2x [card name=”Blaziken V” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”20″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]2x [card name=”Octillery” set=”BREAKthrough” no=”33″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]2x [card name=”Remoraid” set=”Battle Styles” no=”36″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]2x [card name=”Rayquaza VMAX” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”111″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]2x [card name=”Rayquaza V” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”110″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]1x [card name=”Zeraora V” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”53″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card][/pokemon][trainers amt=”25″]4x [card name=”Professor’s Research” set=”Champion’s Path” no=”62″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Marnie” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”169″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]2x [card name=”Boss’s Orders” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”154″ c=”deck2″ divide=”yes” amt=”2″][/card]4x [card name=”Quick Ball” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”179″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Evolution Incense” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”163″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]3x [card name=”Ribbon Badge” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”155″ c=”deck2″ divide=”yes” amt=”3″][/card]4x [card name=”Tower of Waters” set=”Battle Styles” no=”138″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card][/trainers][energy amt=”12″]4x [card name=”Rapid Strike Energy” set=”Battle Styles” no=”140″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Spiral Energy” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”159″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Capture Energy” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”171″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card][/energy][/decklist] 

The main feature of [card name=”Sylveon VMAX” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”75″ c=”name”][/card] is to have attackers of many different types, which coincidentally are the right types to attack for Weakness in this meta. For example, against Zacian V you use [card name=”Blaziken VMAX” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”21″ c=”name”][/card], against [card name=”Jolteon VMAX” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”51″ c=”name”][/card] and [card name=”Eternatus VMAX” set=”Darkness Ablaze” no=”117″ c=”name”][/card] you have [card name=”Rapid Strike Urshifu VMAX” set=”Battle Styles” no=”88″ c=”name”][/card] and against an opponent’s Rapid Strike Urshifu VMAX, you have Sylveon VMAX.

The deck’s weakness is in its initial setup. With five Evolution lines in the deck, it’s normal for you to have a little difficulty setting up in some games. Also, Sylveon VMAX lists are dependent on Special Energy, some more and some less, but cards like [card name=”Crushing Hammer” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”159″ c=”name”][/card] and [card name=”Fan of Waves” set=”Battle Styles” no=”127″ c=”name”][/card] can cause serious problems. However, the deck does have Blaziken VMAX to attach Energy cards from the discard pile.

7. Ice Rider Calyrex VMAX

[decklist name=”Ice Rider Calyrex VMAX” amt=”60″ caption=”” cname=”Ice Rider Calyrex VMAX” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”46″][pokemon amt=”21″]4x [card name=”Suicune V” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”31″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]3x [card name=”Ice Rider Calyrex V” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”45″ c=”deck2″ amt=”3″][/card]3x [card name=”Ice Rider Calyrex VMAX” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”46″ c=”deck2″ amt=”3″][/card]4x [card name=”Sobble” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”41″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Drizzile” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”56″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]2x [card name=”Inteleon” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”43″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]1x [card name=”Inteleon” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”58″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card][/pokemon][trainers amt=”32″]4x [card name=”Melony” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”146″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]2x [card name=”Marnie” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”169″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]2x [card name=”Professor’s Research” set=”Champion’s Path” no=”62″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]3x [card name=”Boss’s Orders” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”154″ c=”deck2″ amt=”3″][/card]1x [card name=”Raihan” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”152″ c=”deck2″ divide=”yes” amt=”1″][/card]4x [card name=”Quick Ball” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”179″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Level Ball” set=”Battle Styles” no=”129″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Evolution Incense” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”163″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]3x [card name=”Capacious Bucket” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”156″ c=”deck2″ amt=”3″][/card]2x [card name=”Scoop Up Net” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”165″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]1x [card name=”Escape Rope” set=”Primal Clash” no=”127″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Air Balloon” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”156″ c=”deck2″ divide=”yes” amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Path to the Peak” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”148″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card][/trainers][energy amt=”7″]7x [card name=”Water Energy” set=”EX Ruby and Sapphire” no=”106″ c=”deck2″ amt=”7″][/card][/energy][/decklist][cardimg name=”Ice Rider Calyrex VMAX” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”203″ align=”right” c=”none”][/cardimg]

There is a lot of similarity between [card name=”Ice Rider Calyrex VMAX” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”46″ c=”name”][/card] lists and [card name=”Suicune V” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”31″ c=”name”][/card] / [card name=”Ludicolo” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”34″ c=”name”][/card] lists, the only difference being the omission of Ludicolo for the ice horse. The advantage of using this Pokemon is that it can help Suicune V against its biggest weaknesses, which are Jolteon VMAX and Pokemon that can Knock Out Suicune V easily such as [card name=”Single Strike Urshifu V” set=”Battle Styles” no=”85″ c=”name”][/card]. The idea of ​​the deck is to start the game with Suicune V while you setup your [card name=”Sobble” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”41″ c=”name”][/card] and [card name=”Ice Rider Calyrex V” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”45″ c=”name”][/card]. After your Suicune V is KO’d, it’s time for Ice Rider Calyrex VMAX because with 320 HP and an attack that deals 250 damage with two energy, it’s basically a stronger Suicune V.

This is a safe list to play, with no big bad matchups except Zacian V and Zamazenta V. No matter what deck you’re facing, you have strong attackers that hit fast and with two different Weakness, you can choose the most suitable Pokemon for the matchup. Unfortunately, the deck is slightly more inconsistent compared to Suicune V / Ludicolo, mainly because Ice Rider Calyrex VMAX needs to use [card name=”Melony” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”146″ c=”name”][/card] every time it wants to hit 250 damage, but even so it’s not such a big problem.

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6. Leafeon VMAX

[decklist name=”Leafeon VMAX” amt=”60″ caption=”” cname=”Crobat V” set=”Darkness Ablaze” no=”104″][pokemon amt=”19″]3x [card name=”Leafeon VMAX” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”8″ c=”deck2″ amt=”3″][/card]4x [card name=”Leafeon V” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”7″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]2x [card name=”Inteleon” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”43″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]1x [card name=”Inteleon” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”58″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]4x [card name=”Drizzile” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”56″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Sobble” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”41″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]1x [card name=”Crobat V” set=”Darkness Ablaze” no=”104″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card][/pokemon][trainers amt=”32″]3x [card name=”Marnie” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”169″ 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=”Champion’s Path” no=”62″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]1x [card name=”Bird Keeper” set=”Darkness Ablaze” no=”159″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Raihan” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”152″ c=”deck2″ divide=”yes” amt=”1″][/card]4x [card name=”Quick Ball” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”179″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Level Ball” set=”Ancient Origins” no=”76″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Evolution Incense” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”163″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]2x [card name=”Scoop Up Net” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”165″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]1x [card name=”Energy Search” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”161″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Switch” set=”Black and White” no=”104″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Tool Scrapper” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”168″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Tool Jammer” set=”Battle Styles” no=”136″ c=”deck2″ divide=”yes” amt=”1″][/card]4x [card name=”Galar Mine” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”160″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card][/trainers][energy amt=”9″]5x [card name=”Grass Energy” set=”EX Ruby and Sapphire” no=”104″ c=”deck2″ amt=”5″][/card]4x [card name=”Capture Energy” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”171″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card][/energy][/decklist]If Ice Rider Calyrex VMAX is considered a safe deck to use in the current format, [card name=”Leafeon VMAX” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”8″ c=”name”][/card] is even safer. With Victini VMAX as the only Fire-type deck in the format, this deck can play freely without taking Weakness damage. This deck aims to attack with Leafeon VMAX in the second turn with Grass Knot, even taking a Knock Out on most Pokemon V in the format with [card name=”Galar Mine” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”160″ c=”name”][/card]. The average damage done by Grass Knot ranges between 180 and 240 damage, which is good for two Energies.

Regarding the metagame, Leafeon VMAX is perhaps the only deck of the format that has a good matchup against [card name=”Single Strike Urshifu VMAX” set=”Battle Styles” no=”86″ c=”name”][/card], while having balanced matchups against everything else in the metagame. The bad matchup for this deck besides Victini VMAX is [card name=”Jolteon VMAX” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”51″ c=”name”][/card], because of its free Retreat Cost, makes Grass Knot only deal 120 damage with Galar Mine.

5. Rapid Strike Urshifu VMAX

[decklist name=”Urshifu VMAX Rapid Strike” amt=”60″ caption=”” cname=”Crobat V” set=”Darkness Ablaze” no=”104″][pokemon amt=”23″]3x [card name=”Rapid Strike Urshifu VMAX” set=”Battle Styles” no=”88″ c=”deck2″ amt=”3″][/card]4x [card name=”Rapid Strike Urshifu V” set=”Battle Styles” no=”87″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]3x [card name=”Inteleon” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”43″ c=”deck2″ amt=”3″][/card]4x [card name=”Drizzile” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”56″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Sobble” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”41″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]1x [card name=”Octillery” set=”Battle Styles” no=”37″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Remoraid” set=”Battle Styles” no=”36″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Passimian” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”88″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Medicham V” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”185″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Crobat V” set=”Darkness Ablaze” no=”104″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card][/pokemon][trainers amt=”30″]3x [card name=”Marnie” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”169″ c=”deck2″ amt=”3″][/card]2x [card name=”Professor’s Research” set=”Champion’s Path” no=”62″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]2x [card name=”Raihan” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”152″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]1x [card name=”Bird Keeper” set=”Darkness Ablaze” no=”159″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Boss’s Orders” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”154″ c=”deck2″ divide=”yes” amt=”1″][/card]4x [card name=”Quick Ball” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”179″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Level Ball” set=”Ancient Origins” no=”76″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Evolution Incense” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”163″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]2x [card name=”Scoop Up Net” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”165″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]2x [card name=”Energy Search” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”161″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]1x [card name=”Escape Rope” set=”Primal Clash” no=”127″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Switch” set=”Black and White” no=”104″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Telescopic Sight” set=”Vivid Voltage” no=”160″ c=”deck2″ divide=”yes” amt=”1″][/card]2x [card name=”Tower of Waters” set=”Battle Styles” no=”138″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card][/trainers][energy amt=”7″]3x [card name=”Fighting Energy” set=”EX Ruby and Sapphire” no=”105″ c=”deck2″ amt=”3″][/card]4x [card name=”Rapid Strike Energy” set=”Battle Styles” no=”140″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card][/energy][/decklist] 

Since [card name=”Rapid Strike Urshifu VMAX” set=”Battle Styles” no=”88″ c=”name”][/card] arrived it has had a huge impact on the metagame, mainly because of its G-Max Flow attack that can be increased by [card name=”Passimian” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”88″ c=”name”][/card] and [card name=”Telescopic Sight” set=”Vivid Voltage” no=”160″ c=”name”][/card], in addition to the extra damage from [card name=”Inteleon” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”43″ c=”name”][/card]. With the popularity of Inteleon, this attack is even stronger because it can knock out two [card name=”Sobble” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”41″ c=”name”][/card] or [card name=”Drizzile” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”56″ c=”name”][/card] by turn 2, disrupting your opponent’s setup.

The strength of the deck is undisputable and deserving of being one of the best decks in the format. On the other hand, it suffers a lot against [card name=”Dragapult VMAX” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”93″ c=”name”][/card] and [card name=”Shadow Rider Calyrex VMAX” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”75″ c=”name”][/card]. While the purple horse is not doing very well, Dragapult VMAX is one of the top decks of the metagame and is very popular. It’s possible to add [card name=”Galarian Moltres V” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”97″ c=”name”][/card] in to try and solve these matchups, but I think the deck loses a lot of consistency because of it. 

In my view, the best way to play Rapid Strike Urshifu VMAX is to use it to its full potential. There are many cards that have a lot of synergy with the deck, such as Passimian, Telescopic Sight, [card name=”Octillery” set=”Battle Styles” no=”37″ c=”name”][/card], and [card name=”Medicham V” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”83″ c=”name”][/card] that improves your main strategy, but these cards often end up being cut to give way to Galarian Moltres V, [card name=”Energy Switch” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”162″ c=”name”][/card], and some basic Darkness Energy.

4. Suicune V / Ludicolo

[decklist name=”Suicune / Ludicolo” amt=”60″ caption=”undefined” cname=”Ludicolo” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”34″][pokemon amt=”20″]4x [card name=”Suicune V” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”31″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]2x [card name=”Inteleon” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”43″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]1x [card name=”Inteleon” set=”Shining Fates” no=”SV027″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]4x [card name=”Drizzile” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”56″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Sobble” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”41″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]2x [card name=”Ludicolo” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”34″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]1x [card name=”Lombre” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”8″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]2x [card name=”Lotad” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”32″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card][/pokemon][trainers amt=”31″]3x [card name=”Melony” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”146″ c=”deck2″ amt=”3″][/card]2x [card name=”Marnie” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”169″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]2x [card name=”Professor’s Research” set=”Champion’s Path” no=”62″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]2x [card name=”Boss’s Orders” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”154″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]1x [card name=”Raihan” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”152″ c=”deck2″ divide=”yes” amt=”1″][/card]4x [card name=”Quick Ball” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”179″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Level Ball” set=”Ancient Origins” no=”76″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Evolution Incense” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”163″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]2x [card name=”Rare Candy” set=”EX Sandstorm” no=”88″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]2x [card name=”Capacious Bucket” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”156″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]2x [card name=”Scoop Up Net” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”165″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]2x [card name=”Cape of Toughness” set=”Darkness Ablaze” no=”160″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]1x [card name=”Escape Rope” set=”Primal Clash” no=”127″ c=”deck2″ divide=”yes” amt=”1″][/card][/trainers][energy amt=”9″]5x [card name=”Water Energy” set=”EX Ruby and Sapphire” no=”106″ c=”deck2″ amt=”5″][/card]4x [card name=”Capture Energy” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”171″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card][/energy][/decklist][cardimg name=”Suicune V” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”173″ align=”right” c=”none”][/cardimg]

After more than a month since [card name=”Suicune V” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”31″ c=”name”][/card] appeared in the metagame, Jolteon VMAX has gained popularity — not only because it can beat Suicune V, but because it’s a great Pokemon on its own. Moreover, other decks are adding [card name=”Tool Scrapper” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”168″ c=”name”][/card] and [card name=”Tool Jammer” set=”Battle Styles” no=”136″ c=”name”][/card] to remove or negate the [card name=”Cape of Toughness” set=”Darkness Ablaze” no=”160″ c=”name”][/card] attached to Suicune V, making it easier for them to take the Knock Out.

But in my view, Suicune V / [card name=”Ludicolo” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”34″ c=”name”][/card] is a much better deck in practice than in theory. If you stop to analyze the metagame, Suicune V / Ludicolo is one of the most consistent decks in the format and Ludicolo combined with [card name=”Inteleon” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”43″ c=”name”][/card] results in some really good plays.

It’s hard to cite a weakness for Suicune V, as I see all matchups can be tough. Leafeon VMAX can Knock Out Suicune V in one attack, as well as [card name=”Zacian V” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”138″ c=”name”][/card], Ice Rider Calyrex VMAX, Jolteon VMAX, and Shadow Rider Calyrex VMAX. Decks like Jolteon VMAX, Dragapult VMAX, and Rapid Strike Urshifu VMAX can Knock Out Sobble and Drizzile easily. The best way to overcome all these weaknesses is to be aggressive, hitting hard as soon as possible and taking Knock Outs with the help of Inteleon and Ludicolo.

3. Jolteon VMAX

[decklist name=”Jolteon VMAX” amt=”60″ caption=”” cname=”Jolteon VMAX” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”51″][pokemon amt=”20″]3x [card name=”Jolteon VMAX” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”51″ c=”deck2″ amt=”3″][/card]4x [card name=”Jolteon V” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”177″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]2x [card name=”Inteleon” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”43″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]1x [card name=”Inteleon” set=”Shining Fates” no=”SV027″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]4x [card name=”Drizzile” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”56″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Sobble” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”41″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]2x [card name=”Galarian Zigzagoon” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”117″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card][/pokemon][trainers amt=”30″]3x [card name=”Marnie” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”169″ c=”deck2″ amt=”3″][/card]3x [card name=”Professor’s Research” set=”Champion’s Path” no=”62″ c=”deck2″ amt=”3″][/card]2x [card name=”Boss’s Orders” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”154″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]2x [card name=”Cheryl” set=”Battle Styles” no=”123″ c=”deck2″ divide=”yes” amt=”2″][/card]4x [card name=”Quick Ball” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”179″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Level Ball” set=”Ancient Origins” no=”76″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Evolution Incense” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”163″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]2x [card name=”Elemental Badge” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”147″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]2x [card name=”Scoop Up Net” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”165″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]1x [card name=”Energy Search” set=”Black and White” no=”93″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Tool Scrapper” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”168″ c=”deck2″ divide=”yes” amt=”1″][/card]2x [card name=”Path to the Peak” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”148″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card][/trainers][energy amt=”10″]4x [card name=”Capture Energy” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”171″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Speed L Energy” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”173″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]2x [card name=”Lightning Energy” set=”EX Ruby and Sapphire” no=”109″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card][/energy][/decklist]In terms of deckbuilding, I believe [card name=”Jolteon VMAX” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”51″ c=”name”][/card] is the perfect deck for this format. It does whatever Inteleon decks would like to do without sacrificing its consistency. The highlight of this deck is that Jolteon VMAX can attack for only one Energy with the help of the [card name=”Elemental Badge” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”147″ c=”name”][/card], which makes it possible to use [card name=”Cheryl” set=”Battle Styles” no=”123″ c=”name”][/card] to heal all damage dealt to it. No other deck of the format can use Cheryl as well as Jolteon VMAX.

It is not only strength combined with consistency that brings Jolteon VMAX to the Tier 1 of the format, it also has a great position in the metagame. It hits for Weakness against Suicune V and is able Knock Out Sobble and Drizzile on the opponent’s Bench. But not everything is so good for Jolteon VMAX. Its Weakness to Fighting-type Pokemon makes it difficult to play against both types of Urshifu VMAX.

2. Single Strike Urshifu VMAX / Umbreon VMAX

[decklist name=”Urshifu / Umbreon Single Strike” amt=”60″ caption=”” cname=”Crobat V” set=”Darkness Ablaze” no=”104″][pokemon amt=”19″]1x [card name=”Single Strike Urshifu VMAX” set=”Battle Styles” no=”86″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]3x [card name=”Single Strike Urshifu V” set=”Battle Styles” no=”85″ c=”deck2″ amt=”3″][/card]2x [card name=”Umbreon VMAX” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”95″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]3x [card name=”Umbreon V” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”94″ c=”deck2″ amt=”3″][/card]4x [card name=”Houndoom” set=”Battle Styles” no=”96″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Houndour” set=”Battle Styles” no=”95″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]2x [card name=”Crobat V” set=”Darkness Ablaze” no=”104″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card][/pokemon][trainers amt=”31″]4x [card name=”Professor’s Research” set=”Champion’s Path” no=”62″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Marnie” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”169″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]2x [card name=”Boss’s Orders” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”154″ c=”deck2″ divide=”yes” amt=”2″][/card]4x [card name=”Quick Ball” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”179″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Evolution Incense” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”163″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Urn of Vitality” set=”Battle Styles” no=”139″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]2x [card name=”Air Balloon” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”156″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]1x [card name=”Switch” set=”Black and White” no=”104″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Tool Scrapper” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”168″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Tool Jammer” set=”Battle Styles” no=”136″ c=”deck2″ divide=”yes” amt=”1″][/card]4x [card name=”Tower of Darkness” set=”Battle Styles” no=”137″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card][/trainers][energy amt=”10″]4x [card name=”Single Strike Energy” set=”Battle Styles” no=”141″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Capture Energy” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”171″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]2x [card name=”Fighting Energy” set=”EX Ruby and Sapphire” no=”105″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card][/energy][/decklist] 

This is the best positioned deck in the metagame right now and there are a few reasons for that. For starters, I like this deck because of how easy it is to deal 220 damage in the second turn with [card name=”Single Strike Urshifu V” set=”Battle Styles” no=”85″ c=”name”][/card], as this damage is enough to knock out pretty much any Pokemon V like Zacian V and Suicune V. [card name=”Umbreon VMAX” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”95″ c=”name”][/card] allows you to target any Pokemon on the opponent’s Bench and thanks to [card name=”Houndoom” set=”Battle Styles” no=”96″ c=”name”][/card], even if your Single Strike Urshifu V is Knocked Out, you can easily power up another Single Strike Pokemon.

It’s great offensive power is enough to dominate the metagame, but because it plays both Fighting-type and Darkness-type Pokemon, it also hits for Weakness against [card name=”Dragapult VMAX” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”93″ c=”name”][/card], [card name=”Shadow Rider Calyrex VMAX” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”75″ c=”name”][/card], Jolteon VMAX, and [card name=”Eternatus VMAX” set=”Darkness Ablaze” no=”117″ c=”name”][/card]. Furthermore, this is one of the very few decks of the format that is strong without using Inteleon – this is another advantage, as some  current format decks such as Dragapult VMAX, Rapid Strike Urshifu VMAX, and Jolteon VMAX aim to Knock Out Sobble, Drizzile, and Inteleon.

The main weaknesses of this deck are its consistency and the fact that Pokemon take damage due to Houndoom’s Ability, which makes it easier for your opponent to take a return Knock Out. It’s not that the deck is inconsistent, but sometimes it’s hard to make a play that relies on multiple cards with one [card name=”Marnie” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”169″ c=”name”][/card]. The deck does play [card name=”Professor’s Research” set=”Shining Fates” no=”60″ c=”name”][/card] and [card name=”Crobat V” set=”Darkness Ablaze” no=”104″ c=”name”][/card], but it’s quite common to find yourself in the situation I mentioned. About the damage caused by Houndoom’s Ability, it makes the matchups against [card name=”Leafeon VMAX” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”8″ c=”name”][/card] and Suicune / Ludicolo extra tough as you’re making it easier for them to take Knock Outs on your Pokemon.

1. Dragapult VMAX

[decklist name=”Dragapult VMAX” amt=”60″ caption=”Dragaoult VMAX” cname=”Dragapult VMAX” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”93″][pokemon amt=”20″]3x [card name=”Dragapult VMAX” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”93″ c=”deck2″ amt=”3″][/card]4x [card name=”Dragapult V” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”92″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]2x [card name=”Inteleon” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”43″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]1x [card name=”Inteleon” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”58″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card]4x [card name=”Drizzile” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”56″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Sobble” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”41″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]2x [card name=”Galarian Zigzagoon” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”117″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card][/pokemon][trainers amt=”32″]4x [card name=”Professor’s Research” set=”Shining Fates” no=”60″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]3x [card name=”Marnie” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”169″ c=”deck2″ amt=”3″][/card]2x [card name=”Boss’s Orders” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”154″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]1x [card name=”Raihan” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”152″ c=”deck2″ divide=”yes” amt=”1″][/card]4x [card name=”Quick Ball” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”179″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Level Ball” set=”Battle Styles” no=”129″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Evolution Incense” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”163″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Fog Crystal” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”140″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]2x [card name=”Scoop Up Net” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”165″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]2x [card name=”Fan of Waves” set=”Battle Styles” no=”127″ c=”deck2″ amt=”2″][/card]1x [card name=”Escape Rope” set=”Battle Styles” no=”125″ c=”deck2″ divide=”yes” amt=”1″][/card]1x [card name=”Path to the Peak” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”148″ c=”deck2″ amt=”1″][/card][/trainers][energy amt=”8″]4x [card name=”Psychic Energy” set=”HeartGold and SoulSilver” no=”119″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card]4x [card name=”Horror P Energy” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”172″ c=”deck2″ amt=”4″][/card][/energy][/decklist] 

[cardimg name=”Dragapult VMAX” set=”Rebel Clash” no=”93″ align=”right” c=”none”][/cardimg]

The current situation Dragapult VMAX finds itself in now can be compared to the time it was first introduced. While the deck previously had [card name=”Mysterious Treasure” set=”Forbidden Light” no=”113″ c=”name”][/card], it now has [card name=”Fog Crystal” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”140″ c=”name”][/card]. Before, the deck played many single Prize Pokemon to boost consistency and power — now [card name=”Inteleon” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”43″ c=”name”][/card] provides something similar. 

I didn’t expect to see Dragapult VMAX again, but whenever the metagame doesn’t have a big Darkness-type deck, Dragapult VMAX will shine once more because it does a lot with few cards. With the extra space, you can add cards like [card name=”Path to the Peak” set=”Chilling Reign” no=”148″ c=”name”][/card], [card name=”Fan of Waves” set=”Battle Styles” no=”127″ c=”name”][/card], and [card name=”Crushing Hammer” set=”Sword and Shield” no=”159″ c=”name”][/card] to disrupt your opponent’s setup.

Dragapult VMAX’s main weaknesses in the metagame are Umbreon VMAX and disruption cards like Crushing Hammer, which are returning in popularity. But beyond that, I believe that Dragapult VMAX is a deck that does not have as much strength but compensates for this with consistency and player intelligence in knowing how to distribute damage counters from Dragapult VMAX and Inteleon.

Final Thoughts

My main objective with this article was not only to classify which decks are the best in the format, but to understand what is the role of each deck in the metagame. With so many competitive decks, I want to better understand what drives players to choose such a deck, and find out why decks that were bad before are now good (and vice versa).

The change and evolution of the metagame fascinates me because we, the players, are the ones who cause all these changes. One day a player from Brazil appears with a new deck like [card name=”Suicune V” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”31″ c=”name”][/card] / [card name=”Ludicolo” set=”Evolving Skies” no=”34″ c=”name”][/card], and the next day another player from the United States makes some changes to the list, even if it’s just one card. Thanks to online tournaments open around the world, these small changes have become far more visible. Players around the world are testing lists and ideas 24 hours a day and the reflection of this can be seen in the current metagame.

I hope you enjoyed this article and I’ll see you next time!

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