Grapploct V
Champion's Path (CPA 032)

Grapploct V is a Fighting-type Pokémon V card from the Champion’s Path expansion. With a substantial 210 HP, it stands as a formidable Basic Pokémon ready to make an impact on both competitive and casual play. Its two attacks, Tie Up and Moonsault Press, offer tactical versatility and potential for high damage, making it an intriguing choice for deck builders. Let’s dive into a comprehensive review of Grapploct V, exploring its strengths, weaknesses, and the best ways to utilize this powerhouse in your next match.

Card Overview

Grapploct V features:

• HP: 210
• Type: Fighting
• Rarity: Rare Holo V
• Set: Champion’s Path
• Attacks: Tie Up (20 damage; restricts Basic Pokémon), Moonsault Press (120+ damage, with a coin flip for extra 100 damage)
• Weakness: Psychic x2
• Retreat Cost: Two Colorless Energy

Strengths of Grapploct V

Grapploct V shines with its versatile attack options and high HP for a Basic Pokémon. Its first attack, Tie Up, not only deals damage but also prevents the defending Basic Pokémon from attacking on the next turn. This can be a game-changing move against decks that rely heavily on Basic attackers, buying you valuable time to set up your board or disrupt your opponent’s momentum.

Moonsault Press is where Grapploct V truly flexes its muscle. For three energy (two Fighting, one Colorless), it delivers a base 120 damage—already enough to threaten many non-V Pokémon. If luck is on your side, a heads on the coin flip boosts this attack to a staggering 220 damage, putting even some Pokémon V and VMAX within knockout range. This blend of consistent and potential burst damage makes Grapploct V a legitimate threat in mid-game exchanges.

As a Fighting-type, Grapploct V enjoys a natural advantage against popular Lightning-type Pokémon, often found in meta decks. This typing can give you the upper hand in matchups where exploiting weakness is key to victory.

Weaknesses and Limitations

No card is without drawbacks, and Grapploct V is no exception. Its most significant vulnerability is its x2 Weakness to Psychic. In a format where Psychic types are prevalent, this can quickly turn Grapploct V into a liability if not played carefully. Psychic-heavy decks can easily dispatch it, so careful planning and support are essential.

The retreat cost of two Colorless Energy means switching Grapploct V out of the active position can be costly, especially if your deck lacks efficient switching options. This can leave you stuck in disadvantageous situations if your opponent manages to stall or trap Grapploct V in the active spot.

While Moonsault Press has great knockout potential, its reliance on a coin flip introduces inconsistency. Without reliable ways to manipulate coin flips, you may find yourself falling short of crucial knockouts at the worst possible moments.

Situational Strengths and Weaknesses

Grapploct V excels in matches where your opponent relies heavily on Basic Pokémon. Tie Up can lock down these threats, preventing them from attacking and giving you control over the pace of the game. In early to mid-game scenarios, this can buy time to power up your bench or disrupt aggressive starts from your opponent.

Against decks built around evolved Pokémon, Grapploct V loses some of its disruptive edge, as Tie Up only affects Basic Pokémon. Here, you’ll need to lean more on Moonsault Press and hope for favorable coin flips. In Psychic-dominated metas, Grapploct V should be played with caution or paired with partners that can cover its weakness.

Why Add Grapploct V to Your Deck?

The main appeal of Grapploct V lies in its flexibility and ability to disrupt certain strategies. If you’re facing a local meta filled with Basic attackers or Lightning-type threats, Grapploct V can be a valuable addition to your deck. Its high HP ensures it can take a hit, while its attacks provide both disruption and knockout potential.

Decks that focus on Fighting Energy acceleration or have ways to recycle energy will get the most mileage from Grapploct V. It fits well in aggressive decks looking for a solid Basic attacker that can swing games with a timely Moonsault Press.

Value Analysis: Playability vs. Collectibility

When evaluating Grapploct V’s value, it’s important to balance its performance in gameplay with its status as a collectible card. As a Rare Holo V from the sought-after Champion’s Path set, Grapploct V enjoys steady demand among collectors. The set’s limited print run and the popularity of V cards boost its desirability, making it a smart pickup for those looking to enhance their collection.

From a competitive standpoint, Grapploct V offers reasonable value for its performance. While not always a staple in top-tier decks, its unique abilities and potential for high damage ensure it remains a consideration for Fighting-type builds. Its value is further supported by its utility in specific matchups and its striking holofoil artwork, which appeals to both players and collectors alike.

Strategic Advice: How and When to Play Grapploct V

Early Game Disruption: Use Tie Up early to slow down Basic-focused decks. By preventing key attackers from retaliating, you can establish board control and force your opponent to adapt their strategy.

Mid-to-Late Game Finisher: Once you’ve built up enough energy, Moonsault Press becomes your primary weapon. Target opponents’ high-value Pokémon, especially those weak to Fighting, to maximize your chances of taking multiple Prize cards in a single turn.

Bench Management: Be mindful of Grapploct V’s retreat cost. Keep switching options available, and avoid leaving Grapploct V stranded in the active spot against unfavorable matchups.

Energy Acceleration: Pair Grapploct V with cards or abilities that accelerate Fighting Energy attachment. This ensures you can quickly power up Moonsault Press and maintain offensive pressure.

Adaptation: Against Psychic decks, consider benching Grapploct V until you’ve cleared the way or can protect it. Use it as a surprise finisher rather than a frontline attacker in these matchups.

Synergy with Deck Strategies

Grapploct V finds its home in several deck archetypes, especially those that capitalize on Fighting Energy acceleration and disruption. It pairs well with strategies that can recycle energy or heal damage, extending its longevity on the field. Decks that leverage the disruption effect of Tie Up can create windows of opportunity to build up other attackers or set up key plays without fear of retaliation from Basic Pokémon.

Combining Grapploct V with support Pokémon that facilitate switching or energy recovery enhances its effectiveness, allowing you to pivot between attackers as needed. This adaptability makes Grapploct V a dynamic tool in decks that value flexibility and board control.

Conclusion

In summary, Grapploct V is a versatile and impactful card that offers both disruption and raw power. Its ability to shut down Basic Pokémon and threaten big knockouts with Moonsault Press make it a valuable asset in the right hands. While it does have notable weaknesses—particularly to Psychic types and the unpredictability of coin flips—thoughtful deck construction and strategic play can mitigate these downsides.

Whether you’re a competitive player seeking a new angle for your Fighting deck or a collector drawn to the unique art and rarity of Champion’s Path cards, Grapploct V is a card worth considering. Its blend of playability and collectibility ensures it will remain relevant in both arenas for some time to come. Don’t miss the chance to add this octopus-inspired powerhouse to your lineup and experience its full potential in action!