The deck centered on Dragapult ex, a card released in the Twilight Masquerade collection, is among the main candidates to dominate the Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) format after the rotation scheduled for April 11. Despite important losses, the consistency, controlled game pace and versatility of the list make the deck one of the most solid bets for the 2025 season tournaments.
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The new phase of the metagame brings relevant changes with the departure of cards like Regidrago VSTAR and Lumineon V, but opens space for more tactical strategies focused on evolution. In this scenario, Dragapult ex stands out for maintaining an efficient game plan, with attacks that apply constant pressure to the opponent and allow control of the pace of the games.
Simple strategy, but execution requires precision
Unlike complex lists like Slowking or Lost Box, Dragapult ex's game plan is straightforward. The main goal is to quickly reach full evolution, using cards like Rare Candy to speed up the process, and then attacking with Phantom Dive, its most powerful move.
Despite only dealing 200 points of damage to the active Pokémon, the attack can distribute six damage markers to the opponent's board, paving the way for multiple prize plays in subsequent turns. This ability to plan and control requires the player to read the board accurately and make calculated decisions each round.
Budew helps control the pace of the match
One of the deck's unique features is the use of Budew, who acts as a containment piece at the beginning of the game. By attacking for only 10 points of damage, Budew prevents the opponent from using Item cards in the following turn, which significantly delays the opponent's development.
This slower start is essential to give the board time to set up. Ideally, use Budew’s turn to set up multiple Dreepy and begin the transition to Dragapult ex. When executed well, this plan provides a solid foundation for taking control in the middle turns and going for the win.
Dusknoir expands the deck's offensive range
Another strong point of the strategy is the synergy with Dusknoir, a fundamental card to carry out the multiple knockout plan. Its ability allows you to redistribute 13 damage counters among the opponent's Pokémon, which combines with the six counters generated by Dragapult ex's attack.
By using Dusknoir at the right time, the player can knock out high-HP Pokémon on the opponent’s bench or set up the field to end the match in just one turn. However, there are risks: the Ability destroys Dusknoir itself and grants a prize to the opponent, which requires strategic and timely use of the card.
Rotation will bring losses, but the deck remains competitive
With the arrival of rotation, the deck loses important tools such as Lumineon V, Radiant Alakazam, and Forest Seal Stone. These cards provide access to support, damage handling, and precise resource hunting. Their absence limits some plays and increases the reliance on a good opening.
Other losses have a more direct impact on board setup. Lance, which allowed players to search for Dragon-type Pokémon, will be replaced by cards like Jacq and Brock's Scouting, introduced in the Journey Together expansion. The absence of Rotom V also affects matches where the player starts first, as the card helped to compensate for bad hands.
That said, there are still some viable options. Munkidori can replace Radiant Alakazam, and new support cards provide alternatives to maintain consistency. Still, using these options effectively depends on fine-tuning your list and practicing how to deal with different game scenarios.
Dragapult ex should be the highlight of the 2025 season
The combination of offensive power, tempo control, and linear gameplan makes Dragapult ex one of the most promising decks in the new format. Even with the rotation changing important pieces of the list, the core of the strategy remains intact and competitive.
For those who want to compete in tournaments or seek good results in the competitive environment of the Pokémon TCG, investing time in mastering the Dragapult ex lines of play is a safe path. The deck requires precision and constant reading of the game, but offers worthy rewards for players who know how to pilot it efficiently.