Dreaming in Battle: Unlocking the Secrets of Pokémon TCG’s ‘Asleep’ Ability
Exploring the New Asleep Mechanic in Pokémon TCG Pocket
With the introduction of the Promo-A Vol. 2 cards, Pokémon TCG Pocket has unveiled a fresh take on the Asleep condition, featuring a new Jigglypuff. This development has reignited discussions among players about the implications of the Asleep Special Condition in the metagame. To assist you in understanding this mechanic, we’ve crafted a detailed guide covering everything you need to know.
What Is “Asleep” in Pokémon TCG Pocket?
The Asleep condition, often referred to as “sleep status,” is a Special Condition that immobilizes an Active Pokémon, preventing it from attacking or retreating. When a Pokémon falls Asleep, it must flip a coin during each round’s checkup. If it lands on tails, the Pokémon remains Asleep and cannot act for another round. The official description states, “Asleep Pokémon cannot attack or retreat. The player whose Pokémon is Asleep flips a coin during each Pokémon Checkup. If heads, the Pokémon recovers. If tails, it stays Asleep.” Alongside Paralyzed and Poisoned, Asleep is one of the three Special Conditions currently in the game.
Asleep vs. Paralyzed
While both Asleep and Paralyzed restrict a Pokémon’s ability to attack or retreat, they differ significantly in how they operate. To recover from Asleep, a successful coin flip is necessary. In contrast, Paralyzed is automatically cleared after one round without any action required from the player.
Cards That Can Inflict Asleep
Before the Venusaur Drop Event, only four cards could induce the Asleep condition: Wigglytuff ex, Vileplume, Hypno, and Frosmoth. The recent event introduced a new Jigglypuff with the ability to make opponents fall Asleep through its “Sing” ability. Notably, this new Promo-A Jigglypuff is unique, as it does not inflict damage to apply the Asleep status like the other cards do. Hypno’s Sleep Pendulum can also apply Asleep from the bench, thanks to it being an Ability rather than an Attack.
How to Recover from Asleep
There are three effective methods to remove the Asleep condition: Retreating, evolving your Pokémon, and utilizing Supporter abilities. Evolution is particularly useful, as it clears all Special Conditions, including Asleep. However, since the Asleep condition prevents Retreats, you’ll need to strategically force a Retreat. For instance, the Supporter card Koga can be used to bench Pokémon like Weezing and Muk, regardless of their status. Some Supporter cards, like Koga, can effectively counter Asleep by facilitating a Retreat, thus waking the affected Pokémon. It’s important to note that Asleep cannot combine with other conditions like Paralyzed or Confused.
Building the Best Asleep Deck
With the arrival of Promo-A Jigglypuff, a compelling deck idea revolves around Wigglytuff ex, Frosmoth, and Articuno. Including Ram for Frosmoth’s evolution is also essential. Supporter and Item cards to consider are Misty, Sabrina, Professor’s Research, X Speed, and Poke Ball.
Asleep Deck Composition
- Wigglytuff ex: 2
- Jigglypuff: 2
- Ram: 2
- Frosmoth: 2
- Articuno: 2
- Misty: 2
- Sabrina: 2
- X Speed: 2
- Professor’s Research: 2
- Poke Ball: 2
While this deck may not lead you to victory often, it can serve as a fun way to frustrate your opponents. Wigglytuff ex has historically struggled to climb the ranks in Pokémon Pocket’s tier list, and the addition of Promo-A Jigglypuff doesn’t seem to change its standings significantly.
