The Next Dominant Card in Pokemon TCG’s Meta is Already Apparent

Following a series of leaks hinting at a mini-set release just after Pokemon Day and a larger launch pegged for April 30, 2025, Pokemon TCG Pocket fans were hoping for a bit of breathing room to catch up on previous releases. However, in a surprising twist, the game has announced the arrival of a new set titled Shining Revelry, slated for release on March 27. This set promises to bring back both new and returning shiny Pokémon, Ex cards, and other intriguing features. Although only a handful of cards have been teased so far—excluding any alternate versions—there’s already one card that’s catching everyone’s attention for its potential to shake up the current meta.

The release of Shining Revelry is set to potentially disrupt the established decks from Triumphant Light, especially with the introduction of a new Charizard Ex card. This card can execute a powerful 150 damage attack within three turns without any drawbacks. Although Genetic Apex’s Charizard Ex remains formidable with its 200 damage attacks, it’s clear that Pokemon TCG Pocket aims to diversify gameplay with beloved favorites. Among the Ex cards previewed, Red—the Trainer card—might pack the most significant punch in terms of strength.

Red brings an exciting twist to game strategy, reminiscent of the Giovanni card from Pokemon TCG Pocket. While Giovanni enhances all attacks by adding 10 damage, this slight boost can be game-changing, especially against formidable opponents like Arceus Ex with its 140 HP. Red elevates this concept by adding 20 damage to attacks, but with a focus on Ex cards, creating a new dynamic in battles.

This new element introduced by Red is set to dramatically alter gameplay strategies. Many decks rely heavily on Ex cards to dominate matches, and Red offers a new means of quickly neutralizing these heavyweights. Its introduction may necessitate adjustments in deck-building strategies and reconsideration of which Ex cards remain competitive. For instance, Starmie Ex might find itself at a disadvantage compared to Glaceon Ex due to its lower HP, making it more vulnerable to attacks powered by Red.

Additionally, with Red now a part of the mix, the Giant Cape, ensuring deck protection, might become a staple in future builds, likely requiring two copies in most decks. It also potentially increases the demand for healing cards and effects to counterbalance Red’s aggression. The recently introduced Irida Supporter could provide a method to mitigate Red’s potency, though the main concern remains its capacity to boost damage significantly in a single turn.

As is the nature of these dynamic shifts, decks with Sudowoodo could also see a surge in effectiveness. With the right setup, Sudowoodo could deal a staggering 130 damage to an Arceus Ex when paired with Lucario on the bench and Red, using just a single Energy. With Red stirring the pot, the current meta decks will need to evolve and adapt to this fresh threat. The dust has yet to settle, but Red is shaping up to be a game-changer in the Pokemon TCG Pocket scene.