When *Pokemon TCG Pocket* first launched, the meta quickly became dominated by a select few decks, with Misty and water-type Pokemon at the forefront. Early on, these decks gained notoriety for their ability to overpower opponents in the game's opening turns, largely dependent on the outcome of coin flips.
Despite three expansions since the game's launch, the meta hasn't shifted significantly. Instead, the latest expansion has introduced a card that bolsters Misty decks even further, leaving many players frustrated. The issue isn't that Misty decks are the most powerful; rather, it's the luck-based mechanics that make losing to them particularly disheartening. Misty, as a Supporter card, allows players to flip coins until they land on tails, attaching one water-type energy to a chosen Pokemon for every heads flipped. This can range from zero to an overwhelming number of energies, potentially leading to a turn-one win or the early activation of powerful cards.
Subsequent expansions have only amplified Misty's impact. *Mythical Island* introduced Vaporeon, enabling the flexible distribution of bonus energy among water-types. *Space-Time Smackdown* added Manaphy, further increasing the water energy on the board. These expansions also brought powerful water-type Pokemon like Palkia ex and Gyarados ex, keeping water decks at the top of the meta.
The latest expansion, *Triumphant Light*, has introduced Irida, another Supporter card that heals 40 damage from each Pokemon with water-type energy attached. This addition has shifted the healing advantage from grass-type decks to water decks, enhancing their comeback potential. Although some experts suggest that Irida's inclusion might force players to make strategic choices about which Supporters to keep, savvy deckbuilders have found ways to incorporate both Misty and Irida.
With an upcoming event in *Pokemon TCG Pocket* where players can earn rewards for consecutive wins, water decks are expected to be prevalent. Achieving the coveted gold profile badge for a five-win streak is challenging, especially against decks that can dominate early and recover from setbacks. As such, players might find it advantageous to adopt a water deck strategy themselves to compete effectively.
