The arrival of Arceus Ex in Pokémon TCG Pocket has shaken up the meta, introducing powerful synergies with several Pokémon. This legendary Pokémon's immunity to status conditions and its potent Ultimate Force attack (70 damage + 20 for each benched Pokémon) make it a formidable force. Let's explore some of the best Arceus Ex decks currently available.
Arceus Ex's strength is amplified by eight Pokémon from the Triumphant Light expansion, each possessing a unique "Link" ability triggered by Arceus Ex or a standard Arceus. While many are viable, Crobat, Magnezone, and Heatran stand out as particularly potent partners.
Crobat (Dark Energy) Deck
This deck utilizes Crobat and Arceus Ex as its primary attackers. With Arceus Ex in play, Crobat's ability inflicts 30 damage to the opponent's Active Pokémon, even from the bench. Its 50-damage attack (for one Dark Energy) complements Arceus Ex, which you'll aim to power up with three energies. A fully powered Arceus Ex on the bench allows for free retreats with Crobat (no retreat cost), enabling a devastating 130-damage hit. Farfetch'd adds pressure, and Spiritomb spreads damage to the opponent's bench, setting up knockouts with Cyrus.
Deck List: 2x Arceus Ex, 2x Zubat (Triumphant Light), 2x Golbat (Genetic Apex), 2x Crobat, 1x Spiritomb, 1x Farfetch'd, 2x Professor's Research, 2x Dawn, 2x Cyrus, 2x Poké Ball, 2x Pokémon Communication
Dialga Ex/Magnezone (Metal Energy) Deck
This deck centers around Arceus Ex, supported by both versions of Magnezone. Triumphant Light Magnezone takes -30 damage with Arceus Ex present, while the Genetic Apex version deals 110 damage after using Magneton's Volt Charge ability. Note that Genetic Apex Magnezone cannot be powered by Metal Energy (it's Electric type), requiring careful evolution timing. Skarmory, alongside Giant's Cape and Rocky Helmet, enhances survivability, ensuring your Dialga Ex and Arceus Ex withstand attacks while powering up Skarmory.
Deck List: 2x Arceus Ex, 2x Dialga Ex, 2x Magnemite (Triumphant Light), 2x Magneton (Genetic Apex), 1x Magnezone (Triumphant Light), 1x Magnezone (Genetic Apex), 1x Skarmory, 2x Professor's Research, 2x Leaf, 2x Giant's Cape, 1x Rocky Helmet, 2x Poké Ball
Heatran (Fire Energy) Deck
A faster, more aggressive Fire-type deck similar to Ninetails Blaine decks. Heatran, Rapidash, and Farfetch'd provide early pressure, requiring minimal energy. Simultaneously, power up your benched Arceus Ex. Giant's Cape protects Heatran and boosts Arceus Ex above 150 HP. Heatran's free retreat (with Arceus Ex in play) allows for flexible Pokémon switching. Its Ragin' Fury attack deals 80 damage (with two Fire Energy) if Heatran is already damaged; otherwise, it deals 40.
Deck List: 2x Arceus Ex, 2x Heatran (Triumphant Light), 2x Ponyta (Mythical Island), 2x Rapidash (Genetic Apex), 1x Farfetch'd, 2x Professor's Research, 1x Blaine, 1x Cyrus, 1x Dawn, 2x Giant's Cape, 2x Poké Ball, 2x X Speed
While more Arceus Ex strategies are sure to emerge, these decks represent some of the strongest current options in Pokémon TCG Pocket.
Pokémon TCG Pocket is available now on mobile devices.
