Pokemon TCG: Best Palafin Ex Deck Guide

Learn the best way to use a Palafin ex Deck in the current Pokemon TCG meta and which cards work well in this archetype.

Palafin ex (Image via TPC)
Palafin ex (Image via TPC)

Palafin ex is a card that relies heavily on switching in and out of the Active Spot. As a result, the rest of the deck is built around that mechanic. Not only are the Pokemon cards in the deck meant to benefit from regular switching, but the Trainer cards as well. This was helped out further by the new Stadium card Surfing Beach from Mega Evolution which lets Water-types switch around freely. As a result Palafin ex has become more consistent.

Pokemon TCG Best Palafin Ex Deck Guide Overview

The plan is to switch between Palafin ex and other damage-dealing cards in this deck so that you can deal over 200 damage each turn. While some of the Pokemon have ways to switch around easily, there are Trainer cards in the deck like Surfing Beach, Switch, and Air Balloon to help make this easier to pull off.

All Cards in Best Pokemon TCG Palafin Ex Deck

Palafin ex decklist (Image via TPC)
Palafin ex decklist (Image via TPC)
  • Finizen from Twilight Masquerade x4
  • Palafin ex x3
  • Palafin from Twilight Masquerade x3
  • Palafin from Obsidian Flames x1
  • Dunsparce from Paldea Evolved x3
  • Dunsparce from Temporal Forces x1
  • Psyduck x1
  • Fan Rotom x1
  • Lillie’s Determination x4
  • Iono x3
  • Boss’s Orders x2
  • Arven x1
  • Judge x1
  • Kieran x1
  • Buddy-Buddy Poffin x4
  • Ultra Ball x4
  • Great Ball x2
  • Energy Search x1
  • Super Rod x1
  • Prime Catcher x1
  • Switch x1
  • Night Stretcher x1
  • Air Balloon x3
  • Surfing Beach x3
  • Basic Water Energy x7

How To Play This Best Palafin Ex Deck in Pokemon TCG

Ideal Starting Hand

You want to set up multiple Finizen from both Obsidian Flames and Twilight Masquerade. However, when it comes to putting one in the Active Spot, the Finizen from Obsidian Flames should be preferred, as it can switch out of the Active Spot to immediately evolve.

Best Palafin Ex Deck in Pokemon TCG: Key Cards

Key cards for Palafin ex (Image via TPC)
Key cards for Palafin ex (Image via TPC)

Here’s the strategy for this deck:

  • Palafin ex will be evolved and attack with its move Giga Impact. 
  • On the next turn, it should be swapped out with Switch or by attaching an Air Balloon to it.
  • However, the best way to do so is with the new Stadium card Surfing Beach. Any Water-type can switch in and out freely as long as this Stadium is in play.
  • Palafin from Obsidian Flames is another attacker that can deal 210 damage with its move Justice Kick if it switches in on the same turn.
  • Dudunsparce from Temporal Forces can switch itself out of the Active Spot while acting as a draw engine.

Best Matchups for Palafin Ex Deck in Pokemon TCG

Blissey ex (Image via TPC)
Blissey ex (Image via TPC)

Blissey ex struggles to take more than one attack from Palafin ex and its allies.

Counters to Palafin Ex Deck in Pokemon TCG

Marnie's Grimmsnarl ex (Image via TPC)
Marnie’s Grimmsnarl ex (Image via TPC)

Marnie’s Grimmsnarl ex can whittle down Palafin ex quickly, especially with other cards like Froslass and Munkidori.

Best Palafin Ex Deck Guide in Pokemon TCG: Tips and Tricks

Something to consider while using this deck

  • Fan Rotom could be played on the first turn to get a bunch of Dunsparce for later with its Ability.
  • Psyduck will prevent self KO moves from Dusknoir or Forretress ex.
  • Prime Catcher is the ACE SPEC of this deck which not only gusts your opponent’s Active Pokemon away but will switch in a Palafin of your choice.

FAQs about Palafin Ex Deck in Pokemon TCG

Are There Other Cards That Work Well With Palafin Ex?

Palafin ex also works with Chien-Pao ex and Baxcalibur as a secondary attacker and lead.


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