Identifying the standout cards in any Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) set can be daunting, but the latest release, Journey Together, offers a plethora of fantastic additions to your decks. The debut of this set coincides with a card rotation, meaning numerous cards from earlier sets are now rendered unplayable in competitive formats. This provides a prime opportunity for both veteran players and newcomers to discover optimal deck-building strategies together.
With ongoing stocking issues in the Pokémon TCG market, it’s an excellent time for competitive players to invest in individual cards rather than purchase sealed products at inflated prices. For casual players enjoying friendly matches, investing in singles also makes financial sense. Navigating the specifics of which singles to target can be overwhelming; however, this guide highlights some of the most useful cards available in this set.
10 Salamance ex
187/159
While Salamance ex may not top the list, it is certainly a strong option. It excels at targeting your opponent’s benched Pokémon, delivering 50 damage to each unevolved Pokémon with its Wide Blast attack, requiring three Energy cards. The second attack can deal a staggering 300 damage to the Active Pokémon, costing two Energy. This card is particularly valuable in the current Dragon-type meta. Given its strength and aesthetic appeal—especially if you obtain the Special Illustration Rare—it is a strong candidate for Dragon-type decks.
9 Mamoswine ex
174/159
Mamoswine ex serves as a formidable Stage 2 attacker thanks to its impressive 340 HP. As a Fighting-type Pokémon, it complements heavy decks effectively. Its ability allows players to filter their decks, compensating for the rotation of previous cards. With a base attack inflicting 180 damage, it can increase to an additional 120 damage when paired with evolved Pokémon. Mamoswine ex is an essential choice for players focusing on Stage 2 strategies.
8 Hop’s Cramorant
138/159
Hop’s Cramorant is an unassuming Basic Pokémon that can excel in limited formats. It can deliver 120 damage under optimal conditions and fits seamlessly into Hop-themed decks. While it may not dominate outside limited play, it holds potential to knock out weakened Support Pokémon or continuously threaten your opponent from the Bench. Its affordability makes it a wise addition for any player’s collection.
7 Dundunsparce ex
121/159
Dundunsparce ex complements its predecessor from Prismatic Evolutions, offering significant card draw capabilities. As a colorless Pokémon, it provides flexibility for any deck. Its attack can inflict 60 damage amplified by the number of opponent’s Pokémon ex. Additionally, the Destructive Drill attack guarantees 150 damage, showcasing its utility despite not being the most powerful card. It’s a simple yet effective addition for current Dundunsparce users.
6 Wailord
041/159
Wailord stands out as an exemplary water-type Pokémon in this set. Its Hydro Pump attack ramps up in damage with each Water Energy attached, ultimately allowing devastating strikes. Coupling Wailord with Baxcaliber can exponentially enhance its damage output. Notably, Wailord is not an ex-Pokémon, which minimizes your opponent’s prize count if it is defeated, making it a consistently reliable choice.
5 Hop’s Zacian ex
111/159
Hop’s Zacian ex carries impressive damage potential, striking both the Active and Benched Pokémon, with a singular attack inflicting 240 damage while boasting 230 HP. This Metal-type Pokémon seamlessly integrates into Hop’s deck strategy, particularly targeting Benched opponents. It may not serve as a finisher, but it effectively manages threats on the backline.
4 N’s Zoroark ex
098/159
N’s Zoroark ex is a valuable addition for enhancing card draw shortfalls. Its unique ability permits players to utilize attacks from their Benched Pokémon, maximizing strategic options. This card pairs excellently with N’s Reshiram, whose high-damage attacks can be optimally employed during gameplay. While N’s Zoroark needs to be part of a specific deck archetype to shine, it significantly bolsters the overall synergy of the “N package.”
3 Hop’s Dubwool
136/159
Hop’s Dubwool has emerged as a strong support Pokémon, especially within Archaludon setups. Its ability to force opponents to switch their Active Pokémon adds strategic versatility to gameplay, often leading to clutch victories. This card effectively acts as a secondary Supporter, allowing players the opportunity for additional strategic plays without the typical limitations of Supporter cards. As the game evolves, Dubwool’s value is likely to appreciate, especially with anticipated changes in future sets.
2 Brock’s Scouting
146/159
Brock’s Scouting stands out as an excellent replacement for any rotated “F”cards, offering the ability to retrieve either two Basic Pokémon or one Evolution, making it a strategic asset in hand management. Its affordability—currently averaging between $0.17 and $0.75—ensures easy incorporation into decks without financial strain. For players seeking a more premium version, the Ultra Rare variant is around $5, affording options for both budget-conscious and collectors alike.
1 Lillie’s Clefairy ex
056/159
Lillie’s Clefairy ex has emerged as the most impactful card from Journey Together, particularly noted for its effectiveness against Dragon-type decks, which have recently dominated the meta. This Basic Psychic-type Pokémon alters the weaknesses of Dragon cards to Psychic, providing a strategic edge from the Bench. With its notable attack yielding 140 damage contingent upon full benches, Clefairy proves to be an invaluable addition for countering prevalent deck strategies. Its relevance may evolve with future releases like Destined Rivals, but for now, it is essential for players facing Dragon-type opponents.
Source: TCGPlayer