Cobalion
Chilling Reign (CRE 114)

Quick Overview: Cobalion from Chilling Reign

The Cobalion (Chilling Reign 114/198) stands as a Rare Holo card in the Pokémon TCG, featuring 120 HP, Metal typing, and two solid attacks: Headbang and Metal Slash. As a Basic Pokémon, Cobalion is straightforward to play and brings both offensive power and defensive resilience to any Metal deck. Let’s dive deep into its strengths, drawbacks, and the strategic value it offers to both competitive players and collectors.

Card Analysis: Strengths & Weaknesses

Base Stats and Typing

Cobalion’s 120 HP is respectable for a Basic Pokémon, allowing it to withstand moderate damage before being knocked out. Being a Metal-type grants it access to a variety of support cards and synergies unique to Metal decks. The Grass resistance (-30) gives it a slight edge against common Grass attackers, while its Fire weakness (×2) is a notable vulnerability, especially in a meta where Fire decks can be prevalent.

Attack Breakdown

• Headbang: For just one Metal and one Colorless Energy, this attack deals 40 damage. While not overwhelming, it allows Cobalion to chip away at opponents early or finish off weakened Pokémon efficiently.
• Metal Slash: This is where Cobalion shines offensively. For two Metal and one Colorless Energy, it delivers a solid 130 damage. The drawback is that Cobalion can't attack during your next turn, so timing is crucial. This high-damage move can swing momentum, but requires careful planning to avoid leaving Cobalion vulnerable.

When is Cobalion Advantageous?

Cobalion excels in situations where you need a reliable attacker that can be set up quickly. Its Basic status means no evolution is required—just drop it onto your Bench and start attaching Energy. In the early to mid-game, Headbang provides steady pressure, while Metal Slash can take down bulkier threats or finish off key targets.

Against Grass-type decks, Cobalion’s resistance helps it survive longer, making it an excellent pivot or frontline attacker. It also fits seamlessly into Metal-centric strategies that leverage the type's natural tankiness and Energy manipulation options.

Potential Drawbacks and Disadvantages

The most significant downside is the attack limitation imposed by Metal Slash. After using it, Cobalion cannot attack on your next turn, potentially giving your opponent a free window to retaliate or reposition. This makes Cobalion less effective as a lone attacker and necessitates either switching it out or using other support strategies to keep up the offensive pressure.

Its Fire weakness can be problematic if you’re facing popular Fire decks, as even moderate Fire attackers can easily KO Cobalion in one hit. Also, with a retreat cost of two Colorless Energy, moving Cobalion out of harm’s way isn’t always easy without support.

Why Add Cobalion to Your Deck?

Cobalion offers flexibility and value, particularly in Metal decks looking for a straightforward Basic attacker. It’s useful for:

• Early-game pressure: Headbang lets you apply damage while setting up your main attackers.
• Mid-game swing turns: Metal Slash can KO many non-evolved Pokémon and even threaten some Stage 1s.
• Bench filler: If you need a reliable Basic to round out your roster, Cobalion is a strong candidate.

It also synergizes well with Metal-based Energy acceleration and healing effects, boosting its survivability and utility.

Quality/Price Ratio and Collector Value

From a gameplay perspective, Cobalion’s effectiveness is balanced by its accessibility. It’s not an ultra-rare chase card, but its Rare Holo status and presence in the Chilling Reign set make it attractive to both players and collectors. For those building Metal decks, it offers a great blend of affordability and battlefield impact.

As a collector’s item, Cobalion appeals due to its legendary status within the Pokémon lore and its visually striking holofoil treatment. Demand remains steady among fans of Legendary Pokémon, and its inclusion in Chilling Reign ensures it will retain value for set completers and Metal-type enthusiasts alike.

Strategic Tips: When and How to Play Cobalion

Timing is everything with Cobalion. Here are some tips for maximizing its impact:

• Lead with Headbang: Use this attack in the early game to soften up opposing Pokémon or finish off low-HP targets. It’s energy-efficient and keeps Cobalion active until you’re ready to unleash Metal Slash.
• Plan for Metal Slash: Before committing to Metal Slash, ensure you have a way to switch Cobalion out or otherwise mitigate the “can’t attack” clause. Consider pairing with cards or abilities that allow retreat or switching, or use healing to keep Cobalion healthy while benched.
• Bench Management: Don’t rely solely on Cobalion as your main attacker. Rotate it in and out as needed, and pair with other Metal Pokémon who can pick up the slack when Cobalion is on cooldown.
• Adapt to Opponent: Against Fire-heavy decks, try to minimize Cobalion’s exposure or use it as a secondary attacker. Versus Grass or Psychic types, let Cobalion take the lead to maximize its survivability and pressure.

Synergy with Specific Deck Strategies

Cobalion thrives best in decks that capitalize on Metal Energy acceleration and support. Decks with built-in healing, switching, or protection effects can help offset the drawbacks of Metal Slash’s restriction and Cobalion’s retreat cost. Pairing it with strategies that manipulate Energy attachments or provide bench protection further elevates its utility.

For example, decks focused on tanking damage and healing can keep Cobalion in play longer, letting you cycle between Headbang and Metal Slash as needed. Alternatively, aggressive Metal builds can use Cobalion as a backup attacker, stepping in when your primary Pokémon is under threat or needs to recover.

Conclusion: Is Cobalion Worth It?

Cobalion (Chilling Reign 114/198) is a versatile, affordable, and visually appealing addition to any Metal deck or collection. Its straightforward attacks, solid HP, and synergy with Metal strategies make it a worthwhile investment for both players and collectors. While it does require careful management to avoid its attack restriction and Fire weakness, its strengths far outweigh its limitations in most scenarios.

If you’re looking to bolster your Metal deck with a reliable Basic attacker or want to add a Legendary Pokémon to your binder, Cobalion is a card you won’t want to overlook. Whether you’re battling in tournaments or trading with friends, this card delivers consistent value and excitement every time it hits the table.