Metal-type decks in Pokémon TCG Pocket are renowned for their resilience, much like the Steel type they represent. These decks typically adopt a strategic approach, gradually assembling formidable threats on the Bench before launching a powerful counterattack. Although this method of play posed challenges during the early stages of the game’s release, the introduction of new cards over time has positioned Metal-type decks as formidable contenders in the competitive arena.
This article will delve into some of the best Metal-type decks currently available in Pokémon TCG Pocket, evaluating their strengths and strategies.
Top Metal-Type Decks in Pokémon TCG Pocket
1) Solgaleo ex
| Cards | Quantity |
| Cosmog | 2 |
| Cosmoem | 1 |
| Solgaleo ex | 2 |
| Skarmory | 2 |
| Lillie | 2 |
| Giant Cape | 2 |
| Rocky Helmet | 2 |
| Cyrus | 1 |
| Rare Candy | 2 |
| Professor’s Research | 2 |
| Poke Ball | 2 |
Key Attributes of Solgaleo ex
- HP: 180
- Ability: Rising Road — Allows it to switch into the Active Spot from the Bench once per turn.
- Move: Sol Breaker — Delivers 120 damage for 2 Metal Energy, incurring 10 damage to itself.
Solgaleo ex serves as the primary attacker in this setup, providing significant damage potential for only 2 energy. The card’s classification as a Stage 2 Pokémon is mitigated by Rare Candy, which allows players to bypass the Stage 1 evolution. Furthermore, its Rising Road ability enables swift transitions to combat, with healing support from cards like Lillie helping to manage any recoil damage.
Skarmory
- HP: 80
- Move: Metal Arms — Inflicts 20 damage (+ an additional 30 if a Pokémon Tool is attached) using 1 Metal Energy.
As a secondary attacker, Skarmory offers versatility. With a Pokémon Tool like Rocky Helmet or Giant Cape, it can effectively deal 50 damage while also countering Oricorio Pom Pom, a threat that Solgaleo ex struggles against.
Alternative Cards for Consideration:
- Guzma: A Supporter card effective in removing disruptive items like Rocky Helmet or Poison Barb.
- Pokémon Communication: Useful for retrieving specific Pokémon from the deck.
2) Dialga ex
| Card | Quantity |
| Dialga ex | 2 |
| Meltan | 2 |
| Melmetal | 2 |
| Pokemon Center Lady | 2 |
| Poke Ball | 2 |
| Professor’s Research | 2 |
| Red | 2 |
| Leaf | 2 |
| Cyrus | 1 |
| Giant Cape | 1 |
| Rocky Helmet | 1 |
| Adaman | 1 |
Characteristics of Dialga ex
- HP: 150
- Move 1: Metallic Turbo — Inflicts 30 damage for 2 Metal Energy and allows attachment of 2 Metal Energy from the Energy Zone to a Pokémon on the Bench.
- Move 2: Heavy Impact — Deals 150 damage for 2 Metal Energy and 2 Colorless Energy.
Dialga ex is pivotal to the strategy of this deck. The first move, Metallic Turbo, creates energy advantages for your Bench Pokémon, while Heavy Impact provides powerful finishing capabilities late in the game. Cards like Pokémon Center Lady and Adaman are included to sustain Dialga ex’s health during play.
Melmetal
- HP: 130
- Ability: Hard Coat — Reduces damage from attacks by 20.
- Move: Heavy Impact — Inflicts 120 damage for 3 Metal Energy and 1 Colorless Energy.
Melmetal acts as an additional attacker, effectively utilizing Dialga ex’s Metallic Turbo for setup and standing as a powerful defensive option due to its Hard Coat ability, making it a tough opponent to eliminate.
Suggestions for Deck Alternatives:
- Non-type Specific Energy Pokémon: Pokémon such as Alolan Raichu ex, Yanmega ex, Mew ex, Bastiodon ex, Lickilicky ex, and Bibarel ex can effectively benefit from Dialga ex’s energy ramp.
3) Tinkaton ex
| Card | Quantity |
| Tinkatink | 2 |
| Tinkaton ex | 2 |
| Dialga ex | 2 |
| Rare Candy | 2 |
| Lillie | 2 |
| Giant Cape | 2 |
| Rocky Helmet | 2 |
| Iono | 1 |
| Red | 1 |
| Poke Ball | 2 |
| Professor’s Research | 2 |
Insights on Tinkaton ex
- HP: 170
- Move: Terrific Thumping — Deals 80 damage (+80 more based on a coin flip) for 2 Metal Energy and 1 Colorless Energy.
Tinkaton ex embodies a high-stakes approach that can deliver impressive damage potential, reaching up to 160 with favorable luck. Its cards are strategically included to mitigate risks, and with Rare Candy, it can rapidly evolve while benefiting from healing options like Lillie. The inclusion of Dialga ex for energy management is also vital.
Alternative Options for Tinkaton ex Deck:
- Skarmory: A solid choice against Oricorio Pom Pom, though be cautious of its Lightning weakness.
- Magearna: Another strong candidate that deals substantial damage to Pokémon with abilities.
With various powerful options available, Metal-type decks in Pokémon TCG Pocket provide unique strategies and gameplay experiences. As the game’s meta continues to evolve, staying updated on card developments and deck synergies will enhance your mastery over these robust decks.