Lightning-Type Pokémon in Space-Time Smackdown: The Best Cards
The latest expansion for Pokémon TCG Pocket, Space-Time Smackdown, introduces a limited but powerful selection of Lightning-type Pokémon. With only 12 cards, they make up just 7.74% of the set’s 155 new Pokémon. Despite their small numbers, several of these cards have significantly impacted the metagame.
New Lightning-Type Pokémon in the Expansion
Among the noteworthy additions are Rotom, Electabuzz, Electivire, and Luxray. However, the standout of the set is Magnezone, which has formed a dominant synergy with Darkrai ex, reshaping the current meta.
Ranking Criteria
The ranking of these Pokémon is based on three key factors:
- Meta Share: Pokémon with frequent play in competitive decks rank higher.
- Synergies: Cards that work well with other popular Pokémon receive higher rankings.
- Future Viability: Pokémon expected to remain relevant in the metagame outrank those with limited utility.
5. Rotom – The New Counter for Tools
- HP: 70
- ATK: 20 (up to 50 with ability)
- Ability: If the opponent’s Active Pokémon has a Pokémon Tool attached, this attack does 30 more damage.
With the introduction of Pokémon Tools as a new Trainer Card type, Rotom has emerged as a strong counter. Players can now enhance their Pokémon with items like Giant Cape or Rocky Helmet, but Rotom punishes opponents relying on these tools by dealing extra damage.
4. Electabuzz – A Member of the Self-Sufficiency Movement
- HP: 80
- ATK: 0
- Ability: Take a Lightning Energy from the Energy Zone and attach it to this Pokémon.
Electabuzz plays a crucial role in self-sufficient Lightning-type decks, accelerating the setup for Electivire. While it requires being in the Active Spot, making it vulnerable, the addition of Volkner helps mitigate this risk.
3. Electivire – The Big Bad Force
- HP: 120
- ATK: 40 (up to 120 with ability)
- Ability: If this Pokémon has at least two extra Lightning Energy attached, this attack does 80 more damage.
Electivire benefits greatly from Volkner’s Energy-retrieving ability. Without support, its base 40 damage is underwhelming, but with proper setup, it can unleash a devastating 120-damage attack.
2. Luxray – The In-And-Out Assassin
- HP: 130
- ATK: 120
- Ability: Discard all Lightning Energy from this Pokémon. This attack does 120 damage to one of the opponent’s Pokémon.
Luxray follows a hit-and-run strategy. Thanks to Volkner, it can recover discarded Energy and return to the Active Spot without retreat costs, allowing it to execute repeated high-damage attacks.
1. Magnezone – Pokémon Pocket’s New Meta
- HP: 140
- ATK: 110
- Ability: Discard a Lightning Energy from this Pokémon.
Magnezone has become the defining Pokémon of the new meta, primarily due to its synergy with Darkrai ex. This partnership allows for a devastating Ability-focused strategy, making Magnezone the most influential card in the Space-Time Smackdown expansion.
With its impressive synergy, high attack power, and ability to fit into multiple deck builds, Magnezone solidifies itself as the top Lightning-type Pokémon in the latest Pokémon TCG Pocket expansion.
