Fighting-type Deck Strategies Enhanced by Space-Time Smackdown Expansion

Since the release of the Space-Time Smackdown expansion for Pokémon Trading Card Game Pocket, several exciting and powerful cards are appearing in battles. From ex cards with high damage to useful supporter cards, players now have plenty of options to integrate into their established decks. One type, in particular, has had a significant upgrade: the Fighting-type deck. To succeed in competitive battles, you must build a deck balancing Pokémon, supporters, items, and tool cards.

This Fighting-type deck utilises the formidable partnership between Space-Time Smackdown cards Lucario and Gallade ex -- both intensely focused on consistent damage. With the appropriate approach, this deck can deal considerable and devastating damage, making quick work of opponents regardless of which deck they face you with. Although Fighting-type decks were previously overlooked, the Space-Time Smackdown expansion and the addition of Gallade ex have strengthened their position considerably.

To maximise the potential of this deck, players should incorporate three central cards that will deal damage: Gallade ex, Lucario, and Hitmonchan. Firstly, Gallade ex is a Stage Two card evolving from two Psychic-type pre-evolutions. To unlock its full firepower, these pre-evolutions must first be placed on the bench. With the attack "Energized Blade," it can deal 70 damage and an additional 20 damage for each energy attached to the opponent's Active Pokémon. This is especially effective against Celebi ex, which often relies on attaching substantial amounts of energy.

The card distribution in this deck is as follows:

• Ralts - 2 Basic - Teleport: Switch this Pokémon with 1 of your Benched Pokémon.
• Kirlia - 2 Stage 1 - Slap: 20 Damage.
• Gallade ex - 2 Stage 2 - Energized Blade: 70+ Damage + This attack does 20 more damage for each energy attached to your opponent's Active Pokémon.
• Riolu - 2 Basic - Jab: 20 Damage.
• Lucario - 2 Stage 1 - Fighting Coach: Attacks used by your Pokémon do +20 damage to your opponent's Active Pokémon. Submarine Blow: 40 Damage.
• Hitmonchan - 2 Basic - Jab: 30 Damage.
• Professor's Research - 2 Supporter - Draw two cards.
• Poké Ball - 2 Item - Put a random Basic Pokémon from your deck into your hand.
• X Speed - 1 Item - During this turn, the Retreat Cost of your Active Pokémon is one less.
• Rocky Helmet - 1 Tool - If the Pokémon this card is attached to is in the Active Spot and is damaged by an attack from your opponent's Pokémon, do 20 damage to the Attacking Pokémon.
• Giovanni - 1 Supporter - During this turn, attacks used by your Pokémon do +10 damage to your opponent's Active Pokémon.
• Sabrina - 1 Supporter - Switch out your opponent's Active Pokémon to the Bench. (Your opponent chooses the new Active Pokémon.)

Another highlight card in this deck is Lucario, which enhances the effectiveness and damage output of the other cards. Its "Fighting Coach" ability grants an additional 20 damage to each attack by a Fighting-type Pokémon. This makes attacks from Hitmonchan and Gallade ex significantly more impactful, warranting the attachment of energy.

Despite appearing underwhelming, Hitmonchan can create serious problems for opposing players. With its "Jab," it deals 30 damage for a single Fighting Energy, which increases to 50 damage when benefitted by Lucario's ability. This makes Hitmonchan's attack cost-effective while ensuring consistent damage output.

Best Strategy To Win With A Fighting Deck

To obtain success with this deck, players must practise patience. Stalling tactics can prolong the game as both Gallade ex and Lucario require time to be established on the board. The Rocky Helmet can induce passive damage. When attached to Hitmonchan in the Active Spot and damaged by an opposing Pokémon's attack, it inflicts 20 damage on the Attacking Pokémon. This tactic can buy time to prepare heavier hitters like Gallade ex or Lucario.

Utilise cards such as Professor's Research and Poké Ball to cycle through the deck more rapidly, allowing important cards to be drawn quickly.

Subsequently, players can maximise Lucario's ability to upgrade the attacks of either Hitmonchan (if it has survived in the Active Spot) or Gallade ex. With its extraordinary damage potential, Gallade ex can easily dismantle any Pokémon in the opponent's Active Spot, especially when benefiting from the added 20 damage per attached energy. This blend of strategies positions players to achieve victory in Pokémon TCG Pocket.