Pokemon Pocket: Manaphy Gyarados ex Deck Guide

In a Pokémon TCG Pocket meta teeming with interdimensional nightmares, sometimes the best defense is a good offense… with a fish. Magikarp, the beloved aquatic Pokémon, evolves into the formidable Gyarados ex, a powerful dragon-type Pokémon that's shaking up the meta.

Since its debut in Mythical Island, Gyarados ex has appeared in various forms, consistently benefiting from the ongoing support of Water-type decks. Its effectiveness against the dominant Darkrai ex/Giratina ex archetype makes it a top contender—a fearsome foe to face.

Sample Decklist

Gyarados ex/Manaphy
Magikarp (A1a) x2	Gyarados ex (A1a) x2	Manaphy (A2) x2	Origin Forme Palkia (A2a) x1
Professor's Research x2	Misty x2	Irida x2	Sabrina x1
Red x1	Poké Ball x2	Pokémon Communication x1	Rocky Helmet x2

While the Genetic Apex Magikarp boasts a Colorless Energy attack, the Mythical Island version is preferred due to its "Leap Out" attack, functioning as a practical Retreat without Energy discard. Giant Cape can substitute for Rocky Helmet, offering Manaphy added resilience, but Rocky Helmet proves more valuable in higher-level play, synergizing with Rampaging Whirlpool.

Gyarados ex/Manaphy Deck Strategy

Gyarados ex is this deck's primary attacker: Its 180 HP, 140 damage Rampaging Whirlpool, and Energy-disrupting capabilities make it a formidable force. However, its reliance on four Energy and its evolution from the incredibly fragile Magikarp present challenges.

Magikarp's 30 HP and Lightning weakness make it vulnerable to one-hit KOs from common Basic Pokémon like Magnemite. Therefore, prioritizing the Mythical Island Magikarp's Retreat attack and strategically positioning the more durable Manaphy (50 HP) as your Active Pokémon is crucial. Manaphy's Oceanic Gift is key to powering up your bench.

The ideal setup involves Manaphy as the Active Pokémon and at least one Gyarados ex on the Bench. Once achieved, Misty can boost Gyarados ex's Energy. With sufficient Energy, unleash Rampaging Whirlpool for maximum impact.

Gyarados ex/Manaphy Matchups

Giratina ex/Darkrai ex

This is a frequent matchup, and fortunately, a favorable one. Gyarados ex can one-hit KO Darkrai ex, leaving Giratina ex vulnerable. However, be cautious of attacking a Rocky Helmet Druddigon; Origin Forme Palkia or Sabrina can help mitigate this threat.

Meowscarada/Magnezone

Meowscarada and Magnezone pose a significant threat. Aggressive play and early use of Misty are vital to overcome this matchup.

Charizard ex/Moltres ex

This is a relatively even matchup. Strategic use of Red and Rampaging Whirlpool are crucial for success. Sacrificing Manaphy to Charizard ex can set up a devastating revenge KO.

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