In the current Pokémon TCG meta, Iron Thorns EX is a sleeper deck that packs a powerful punch with surprising control elements. This deck focuses on creating a slow, controlled tempo that wears down your opponent with relentless support and exceptional control options. In this review, we’ll break down everything you need to know about this deck, from its core engine to gameplay strategy, so you can decide if Iron Thorns EX is the deck for you!
Pokémon: Core Engine
Iron Thorns EX
The core of the deck revolves around the powerful Iron Thorns EX, which brings a game-changing ability called Initialization. When Iron Thorns EX is in the active spot, it prevents your opponent from playing any crucial stadium cards, creating a slow burn that allows you to grind down their resources. With the attack Volt Cyclone, you can hit hard while keeping energy flowing, fueling your aggressive midgame plays.
Check out Iron Thorns EX on Pokellector
Trainers: Supporters and Items
To support Iron Thorns EX, we’ve included a well-balanced roster of Supporter and Trainer cards that synergize perfectly with the deck’s control focus.
Supporters
Arven is your go-to Supporter in this build. Arven’s ability to search your deck for a Pokémon Tool or Item card helps streamline your strategy and gives you access to essential tools when you need them the most. Combined with Boss’s Orders, which lets you take out a specific Pokémon from your opponent’s bench, this deck can really pressure your opponent at key moments.
• Check out Arven on Pokellector
• Check out Boss’s Orders on Pokellector
Items/Tools
Crushing your opponent’s strategy is a priority, so Crushing Hammer plays an essential role in discarding Energy from your opponent’s Pokémon. PokéGear 3.0 helps you find Supporter cards quickly, ensuring that your deck runs smoothly in every phase of the game.
• Check out Crushing Hammer on Pokellector
• Check out PokéGear 3.0 on Pokellector
Arena
Finally, Lost City provides additional disruption by sending knocked-out Pokémon to the Lost Zone, making it nearly impossible for your opponent to recover key cards.
• Check out Lost City on Pokellector
Gameplay Strategy
Start Game
Your opening hand should ideally include Iron Thorns EX and a few key Supporters like Arven. This will give you the momentum to set up Volt Cyclone quickly while applying light pressure with Crushing Hammer.
Midgame
In the middle stages of the game, focus on gaining control over your opponent by utilizing Crushing Hammer and Lost City while using PokéGear 3.0 to draw your key supporters. Slowly build up your energy pool and get Iron Thorns EX ready to unleash some serious damage.
Endgame
As the game draws to a close, look to capitalize on your opponent’s weakened board state with Boss’s Orders to pick off critical targets. By now, Iron Thorns EX should be well-positioned to finish the game, and your control elements will ensure your opponent has no way to mount a comeback.
Recap
The Iron Thorns EX deck offers a solid combination of control and ramp, making it a competitive choice in the current Pokémon TCG meta. It’s strong in consistency and control while being slightly weaker in raw aggression, but it makes up for it with its ability to completely dismantle your opponent’s game plan.
Cost
Building this deck in real life can be fairly affordable due to its straightforward construction. The most expensive components tend to be the Iron Thorns EX and Boss’s Orders cards, but it remains an accessible deck for new players and veterans alike.
For those looking to build this deck, you can grab singles, packs, and booster boxes directly from Blastoise’s Lair TCG, your go-to source for everything Pokémon TCG-related.
Want to Learn More?
If you’re eager to dive deeper into the Iron Thorns EX deck, be sure to check out our YouTube channel for in-depth deck builder tutorials. We also offer a complete breakdown of this 60-card list in our Deck Builder Blog on Blastoise’s Lair. Happy deck building, and may your draws be ever in your favor!
