In Pokémon TCG Pocket, Sleep is a significant hindrance, rendering a Pokémon unable to attack, use abilities, or retreat. While there's a straightforward cure, its impact can be game-altering. This guide details Sleep's effects and how to counter it.
What is Sleep in Pokémon TCG Pocket?
Sleep prevents a Pokémon from any action – attacks, abilities, or retreat. An afflicted Pokémon becomes a vulnerable target.
Curing Sleep
There are primarily two methods to wake a sleeping Pokémon:
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Coin Toss: Each turn, a coin toss determines if the Pokémon awakens. This offers a chance for quick recovery but also the risk of prolonged sleep.
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Evolution: Evolving a sleeping Pokémon instantly cures the Sleep status.
A less common method involves the Koga Trainer card, which returns a sleeping Weezing or Muk to your hand. This is a Pokémon-specific solution.
All Sleep-Inducing Cards
Eight cards currently inflict Sleep:
Image via The Pokemon Company
| Sleep Card |
Method |
How to Obtain |
| Darkrai (A2 109) |
Guaranteed effect via "Dark Void" attack |
Space-Time Smackdown (Dialga) |
| Flabebe (A1a 036) |
Guaranteed effect via "Hypnotic Gaze" move |
Mythical Island |
| Frosmoth (A1 093) |
Guaranteed effect via "Powder Snow" attack |
Genetic Apex |
| Hypno (A1 125) |
Coin flip via "Sleep Pendulum" ability |
Genetic Apex (Pikachu) |
| Jigglypuff (P-A 022) |
Guaranteed effect via "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) |
Hypno's strategic advantage
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 and Gardevoir. While other Sleep-inducing cards are viable, Hypno's effectiveness without hindering your overall strategy currently makes it the most competitive option.