Pokemon TCG Pocket’s Turtonator has been putting up impressive numbers against the top three meta decks since the launch of Extradimensional Crisis. Released on July 13, 2025, the A3a expansion introduced over 100 new and reworked cards toPokemon TCG Pocket.
One key change brought by the A3a set was the long-awaited shift in the metagame, which resulted in the fall of DarkTina. For those unfamiliar, DarkTina refers to the pairing ofDarkrai ex and Giratina ex inPokemon TCG Pocket, a duo that dominated PvP for over two seasons. Their reign continued up until the Ultra Beasts from the May expansion finally brought them down.
Since DarkTina’s fall, Turtonator has quietly held its ground againstPokemon TCG Pocket’s new meta. This underrated Fire-type currently boasts an 80% win rate against the second-best deck, the Buzzwole ex-Pheromosa combo. It has also been able to win about 70% of its matches against the feared Solgaleo ex-Shiinotic lineups, which is a notable feat. But its success doesn’t stop there; a Turtonator deck variant has achieved nearly a 65% win rate against the meta’s top deck, Silvally-Rampardos.
Turtonator Might Be Pokemon TCG Pocket’s True Counter Card
In recent days, some experts have highlighted Giratina ex Stoutland as anunderrated anti-meta deck inPokemon TCG Pocket. This combo holds a 60% win rate in PvP tournaments and performs well against S-tier decks. However, recent stats show Turtonator might be an even stronger counter to the meta. On average, Turtonator wins 70% of its matches against the top three lineups, while Giratina ex and Stoutland decks win almost 60% of the time against the same opponents.
Buzzwole ex-Pheromosa
Solgaleo ex-Shiinotic
~ 80%
~ 70%
~ 65%
It’s worth noting thatPvP data on Turtonator decksis limited, as the Pokemon isn’t very popular. Still, its recent success, even in a small sample, could hint at its potential in PvP. If Turtonator keeps outperforming top-tier Pokemon, it may soon be recognized as one of thebest anti-meta cards inPokemon TCG Pocket. However, for that to happen, more players will need to start using Turtonator decks, which doesn’t seem likely at this time.
Another reason Turtonator might struggle to make a lasting impact isPokemon TCG Pocket’s constantly shifting metagame. Like past expansions, the upcoming releases are expected to shake up the PvP scene, likely limiting the meta share for Turtonator and similar cards. For now, though, players seeking unconventional counters to frustrating meta decks can definitely benefit from Turtonator’s strong performance against them.
Pokemon Trading Card Game Pocket
WHERE TO PLAY
Experience the fun of collecting Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) cards with Pokémon Trading Card Game Pocket, an upcoming game for iOS and Android devices from Creatures Inc., the original developers of the Pokémon TCG, and DeNA Co., Ltd. In this game, you will be able to open two booster packs every day at no cost. you’re able to collect digital cards featuring nostalgic artwork from the past as well as brand-new cards that are exclusive to Pokémon Trading Card Game Pocket.Be on the lookout for new “immersive cards,” which will make you feel as though you’ve leapt into the world of the card’s illustration.
