Pokemon TCG 151 Set: 10 Best Cards That Will See Competitive Play in the Meta

Savvas Matthaiou - 22 September 2023

With the release of the much-anticipated Pokémon TCG 151 Set, the world of competitive Pokémon battles is about to experience a seismic toss. 

In this article, we'll delve into the top 10 cards from the 151 Set that are poised to make a significant impact on the ever-evolving meta. These cards aren't just powerful; they're strategic game-changers. 

We've meticulously assessed their potential based on extensive playtesting, not just their market value. So, let's journey through the new additions to the Pokémon TCG world and explore the cards that are sure to reshape the competitive landscape.

What We Can Expect From Pokémon 151 Set

The 151 Set not only floods us with nostalgia for the original Pokémon but also ushers in a fresh wave of powerful cards. Iconic Pokémon like Bulbasaur, Charmander, Squirtle, Mew, and the indomitable Pikachu return in this set’s Elite Trainer Boxes, EX Collections, booster bundles, etc. 

Collectors and players alike will find plenty of treasures among the 151 cards in this collection.

How We Created the Following Meta Tier-List

Before we dive into the top 10 cards, it's important to clarify that this tier list is about competitive play rather than card values. We've previously compiled another blog post for 151, with a list ranking cards by their value, but this time, we're focusing on how these cards will influence the evolving meta. 

This ranking emerges from hours of rigorous playtesting, ensuring that these cards aren't just powerful in theory but shine in the crucible of real battles.

Now, let's delve into the 10 cards poised to define the Pokémon TCG meta in the coming months.

The 10 Top 151 Cards That Will be Played in the Meta

1. Mew EX

Mew EX emerges as one of the standout Pokémon in the 151 Set. With a robust 180 HP and the status of a basic Pokémon, it's already a formidable contender. But what truly sets Mew EX apart is its unique ability. It ensures that you'll never be left wanting for cards, allowing you to maintain a hand size of at least 3. This level of card advantage in a battle is a game-changer.

But that's not all; as with multiple Mew cards in the past, Mew EX can also mimic your opponent's active Pokémon's ability and execute it. So, in theory, with just 3 energies, it can mimic the brand new Charizard’s Explosive Vortex and quickly destroy its fiery opponent. In essence, Mew EX is your ticket to seizing the initiative in the early turns of any match.

2. Charmander 

Charmander, forever etched in our Pokémon-loving hearts as one of the original starters, returns with renewed vigor in the 151 Set. As a basic Pokémon, Charmander boasts a respectable 70 HP. 

Its Blazing Destruction ability, requiring just one fire energy, can turn the tide in the early game by discarding an opponent's stadium card. This is a crucial counter against S-tier decks that heavily rely on stadiums.

Moreover, Charmander's 70 HP ensures it escapes the effects of certain Turbo Lost Zone strategies. Its enduring appeal is sure to make it a staple in many decks.

3. Pidgey 

Pidgey, our loving flying fella, returns in the 151 Set as a valuable support card. Its ability allows you to delve into your deck and fetch up to 2 basic Pokémon, instantly placing them on your bench. 

This ability alone makes Pidgey an excellent addition to your deck, facilitating the swift entry of powerful Pokémon like Mew EX onto the battlefield. Pidgey's utility in bolstering your bench cannot be overstated, making it a strong choice for a wide range of strategies.

4. Blastoise EX

No discussion of competitive play in the 151 Set is complete without Blastoise EX. With an impressive 330 HP and an ability that reduces damage taken by 30, Blastoise EX is a true tank. It will prove exceptionally challenging to defeat unless your opponent wields an electric deck.

Blastoise EX boasts a potent attack, Twin Cannons, requiring only 2 water energies. This move can dish out an instant 280 damage by discarding 2 water energies. However, its versatility shines through as you can opt to discard just 1 energy and deal 140 damage instead. 

This attack closely resembles Chien Pao's, but with Blastoise EX, you can achieve significantly more damage with only 2 energy cards discarded. This card is poised to become a staple in Chien Pao decks in the coming months, although it may struggle against EX Pokémon with 300+ HP.

5. Charizard EX

The iconic Charizard returns in the 151 Set with Charizard EX, sporting an impressive 330 HP and two significant attack moves. Its first attack, Brave Wing, demands just one fire energy and initially deals 60 damage. However, it gets even more potent if Charizard EX has damage counters – it can deal an additional 100 damage, reaching a total of 160 damage with just one energy required.

However, the real standout is Charizard EX's Explosive Vortex. This move necessitates 4 energies to activate and mandates discarding 3 energies. But in return, it delivers a massive 330 damage instantly. 

In essence, Charizard EX's second attack can obliterate virtually any Pokémon in the current meta in a single hit, making it a top contender for competitive play.

6. Zapdos EX

Zapdos, one of the legendary birds of the first generation, enters the 151 Set in its EX form. With 200 HP, Zapdos EX is a solid basic Pokémon. Its attack, Thunder Assault, proves its worth by dealing spread damage to both the opponent's active Pokémon and one of their benched Pokémon with damage counters. 

With 3 electric energies, Zapdos EX can deal 120 direct damage to the active Pokémon and 90 damage to a benched Pokémon that already carries damage counters. This versatility makes Zapdos EX a strong addition to Miraidon decks, where spreading damage is a crucial tactic for success.

7. Ditto 

Ditto, the famed transform Pokémon, makes its appearance in the 151 Set as a valuable support Pokémon. Its Transformative Start ability is the highlight, allowing you to search your deck for a basic Pokémon and place it in Ditto's position if Ditto occupies the active spot. 

In essence, Ditto enables you to kickstart your battle with your chosen Pokémon in the active position, even if you didn't draw it initially. This flexibility can significantly enhance your opening moves and strategic options.

8. Aerodactyl 

Aerodactyl, a beloved first-generation Pokémon, returns in the new Pokémon TCG set with an exceptional attack move called Devolution Ray. This move allows you to tackle powerful EX evolutions with a straightforward attack. Requiring just 2 energies, it deals 100 damage to the opponent's active Pokémon. 

However, it also has a unique effect – it devolves the opponent's active Pokémon and sends the highest-stage evolution card back to their hand.

This means that if your opponent has evolved Charmander into Charizard using Rare Candy, you'll send the Charizard card back to their hand while defeating Charmander with the 100 damage from the attack. Aerodactyl is a remarkable devolving card that can help you overcome formidable EX Pokémon with ease.

9. Snatch Arm (Grabber)

Snatch Arm (Grabber) returns to the Pokémon TCG stage with a card featured in the new 151 Set. Snatch Arm is an item card that grants you the ability to view your opponent's hand and select a Pokémon from it to shuffle to the bottom of their deck. 

This item card not only enables you to move a potentially potent Pokémon from your opponent's hand but also gives you insight into their upcoming plays. By understanding your opponent's hand, you can better predict and strategize against their next moves, gaining a tactical advantage in battles.

10. Cycling Road

Cycling Road, a stadium card that comes in the new Pokémon TCG 151 Set, offers a unique utility. It allows players to discard a basic energy card from their hand in exchange for drawing a card. While this stadium benefits both players, it can be particularly valuable in decks where card draw is essential. 

By cycling through your deck more rapidly, you increase your chances of drawing key cards and executing your strategy effectively. Cycling Road provides a versatile tool for players seeking to fine-tune their decks and maintain a consistent flow of cards during battles.

Test All New 151 Cards in Our Local Pokémon Tournaments

At Black Flame Collectibles, we believe in the power of hands-on experience. That's why we organize weekly Pokémon TCG tournaments with enticing rewards for all participants. 

In our physical shop, you can acquire sealed products from the 151 Set, unbox powerful cards like the ones we've highlighted, and then put them to the test in real battles during our local Pokémon tournaments. 

It's an opportunity to not only witness these cards in action but also hone your skills and strategies while competing with fellow Pokémon enthusiasts. Join us and see how these new cards perform on the battlefield.

For the latest updates on our events and offerings, make sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

Conclusion

The Pokémon TCG 151 Set brings an exciting blend of nostalgia and competitive gameplay to the world of Pokémon cards. As we explore the top 10 cards expected to shine in the meta, it's clear that this set offers a diverse range of powerful options for trainers and collectors alike. 

Whether you're drawn to the versatility of Mew EX, the tactical potential of Snatch Arm, or the game-changing effects of Cycling Road, there's something for everyone.

As we embark on this new Pokémon TCG journey, remember that the true magic of these cards lies in how you use them. Test different strategies, build formidable decks, and challenge opponents in our local Pokémon tournaments at Black Flame Collectibles. 

The meta is ever-evolving, and with the 151 Set, you have the tools to shape its future. We look forward to seeing you at our tables, where Pokémon battles come to life.