In Pokémon TCG Pocket, Sleep is a debilitating status condition. This guide explains what Sleep does, how to cure it, and which cards inflict it.
What is Sleep?
Sleep prevents a Pokémon from attacking, using abilities, or retreating. An asleep Pokémon is effectively useless until cured.
Curing Sleep
There are three ways to cure Sleep:
- Coin Toss: Each turn, a coin toss determines if the Pokémon wakes up. This is a random chance.
- Evolution: Evolving a sleeping Pokémon cures it.
- Koga Trainer Card: This card specifically returns a sleeping Weezing or Muk to your hand.
The reliance on a coin toss makes Sleep a significant hindrance, potentially costing you the game if unlucky. While you can prepare alternative attackers, your opponent might capitalize on your incapacitated Pokémon.
Sleep-Inducing Cards
Eight cards inflict Sleep:
| Sleep Card | Method | How to Get |
|---|---|---|
| Darkrai (A2 109) | Guaranteed effect of "Dark Void" attack | Space-Time Smackdown (Dialga) |
| Flabebe (A1a 036) | Guaranteed effect of "Hypnotic Gaze" move | Mythical Island |
| Frosmoth (A1 093) | Guaranteed effect of "Powder Snow" attack | Genetic Apex |
| Hypno (A1 125) | Coin flip based on "Sleep Pendulum" ability | Genetic Apex (Pikachu) |
| Jigglypuff (P-A 022) | Guaranteed effect of "Sing" attack | Promo-A |
| Shiinotic (A1a 008) | Guaranteed secondary effect of "Flickering Spores" | Mythical Island |
| Vileplume (A1 013) | Side effect of "Soothing Scent" | Genetic Apex (Charizard) |
| Wigglytuff ex (A1 195) | Additional effect of "Sleepy Song" attack | Genetic Apex (Pikachu) |
The Best Sleep Card: Hypno
Hypno stands out due to its ability to inflict Sleep from the bench, without needing Energy. This makes it a powerful support card for Psychic decks, complementing strong attackers like Mewtwo ex. While other Sleep cards can be useful, Hypno's efficiency currently makes it the most competitive option.
