In Pokémon TCG Pocket, Sleep is a significant hindrance, rendering a Pokémon unable to attack, use abilities, or retreat. While there's a straightforward cure, its duration can be unpredictable, potentially costing you the game. Let's explore Sleep's mechanics and how to counter it.
Understanding Sleep in Pokémon TCG Pocket
A Pokémon afflicted with Sleep cannot participate actively in combat. It's essentially incapacitated until the status is removed.
Curing Sleep
There are primarily two methods to awaken a sleeping Pokémon:
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Coin Toss: Each turn, a coin toss determines if the Pokémon wakes up. This offers a chance for quick recovery but also introduces an element of chance, potentially leaving your Pokémon vulnerable for multiple turns.
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Evolution: Evolving a sleeping Pokémon instantly cures it. This is a strategic option, requiring you to have the appropriate evolution card available.
A less common method involves the Koga Trainer card, which specifically returns a sleeping Weezing or Muk to your hand.
All Sleep-Inducing Cards in Pokémon TCG Pocket
Image via The Pokemon Company
Eight cards currently inflict Sleep:
Sleep Card |
Method |
Acquisition Method |
Darkrai (A2 109) |
Guaranteed effect via "Dark Void" attack |
Space-Time Smackdown (Dialga) |
Flabebe (A1a 036) |
Guaranteed effect via "Hypnotic Gaze" move |
Mythical Island |
Frosmoth (A1 093) |
Guaranteed effect via "Powder Snow" attack |
Genetic Apex |
Hypno (A1 125) |
Coin flip via "Sleep Pendulum" ability |
Genetic Apex (Pikachu) |
Jigglypuff (P-A 022) |
Guaranteed effect via "Sing" attack |
Promo-A |
Shiinotic (A1a 008) |
Guaranteed secondary effect of "Flickering Spores" |
Mythical Island |
Vileplume (A1 013) |
Side effect of using "Soothing Scent" |
Genetic Apex (Charizard) |
Wigglytuff ex (A1 195) |
Additional effect of "Sleepy Song" attack |
Genetic Apex (Pikachu) |
Hypno's Strategic Advantage
Hypno stands out due to its ability to inflict Sleep from the bench, without energy requirements, making it a powerful support card for Psychic decks, particularly when paired with heavy hitters like Mewtwo ex and Gardevoir. While other Sleep-inducing cards are viable, Hypno's efficiency currently makes it the most competitive option.
Understanding Sleep's impact and available counter-strategies is crucial for mastering Pokémon TCG Pocket.