The Pokémon TCG pocket meta is currently dominated by two exceptional decks: Gyarados-EX and Celebi-EX . These decks have taken the gaming scene by storm with their innovative strategies and powerful synergies. But what makes them so special, and how can you use these cards for your success in competitive play? In this blog post, you'll learn all about the deck contents, key strategies, and meta implications.
Celebi-EX Deck: A green powerhouse with a lucky factor

Deck contents :
- 2x Celebi-EX
- 2x Serpifeu, 2x Efoserp, 2x Serpiroyal
- 1x Moruda
- 2x Erika, 2x Sabrina, 2x Professor's Research
- 2x Poké Ball, 2x X-Initiative, 2x Potion
Play style and strategy :
The Celebi-EX deck relies on fast energy management and explosive attacks. With Celebi's ability to potentially deal 50 damage for each Energy point attached via coin flips, opponents can be overwhelmed in just a few turns. Celebi is supported by Serperior , whose "Jungle Domination" ability doubles attached Energy.
However, this setup requires careful timing: evolving to Serperior takes time, and the coin flip mechanism carries a certain amount of risk. But if the strategy works, Celebi-EX becomes a nearly unstoppable attacker that significantly shapes the pocket meta.
Gyarados-EX Deck: Domination from the Depths of Water

Deck contents :
- 2x Magikarp, 2x Gyarados-EX
- 2x Froxy, 2x Amphizel, 2x Quajutsu
- 2x Shardrago
- 2x Poké Ball, 2x Leaf, 2x Misty
- 2x Professor's research
Play style and strategy :
With Gyarados-EX, this deck features one of the strongest Stage 1 Pokémon. With 180 HP and a devastating attack that deals 140 damage , Gyarados-EX can defeat most EX Pokémon in one hit. Combining it with Misty allows for deadly attacks early in the game.
Meanwhile, Shardrago provides damage output when Gyarados gathers Energy on the Bench, while Leaf facilitates the switch. The versatility and power of this deck make Gyarados-EX one of the most feared Pokémon in the current meta.
Meta changes due to Gyarados-EX and Celebi-EX
The dominance of these two decks also has implications for other strategies in the Pokémon TCG pocket meta :
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Pikachu as a Gyarados-EX counter : With a type advantage against Water-type Pokémon, Pikachu can be set up quickly and effectively counter Gyarados-EX. Players looking to compete against Gyarados could incorporate Pikachu more frequently into their decks.
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Charizard as a Celebi-EX counter : Celebi-EX's weakness to Fire-type Pokémon makes Charizard an excellent answer. Thanks to its ability to keep Grass-type Pokémon in check, Charizard could once again gain more attention.
The pocket meta remains dynamic and exciting, with constantly new challenges and counter-attack opportunities.
Conclusion: A look at the future of the Pokémon TCG Pocket Meta
Current developments in the Pokémon TCG Pocket Meta demonstrate how flexible and creative the game can be. Gyarados-EX and Celebi-EX represent the innovative strategies that make the Pokémon TCG so exciting. Whether you play one of these decks or develop new counter strategies, the meta remains fluid.
Which deck will you choose? Share your opinion and experiences in the comments, and discover the best cards and accessories for your deck at CrispyCards !