Passimian
Chilling Reign (CRE 088)

Passimian (Chilling Reign 88/198) stands out as a Basic Fighting-type Pokémon card, part of the Rapid Strike archetype. With 110 HP and a unique ability, this card has become a point of interest for players seeking tactical advantages in both competitive play and casual matches. Let’s take a closer look at what makes Passimian a compelling choice and how it can fit into your deck strategy.

Overview of Passimian (Chilling Reign)

Passimian is a Basic Pokémon with a Fighting type, boasting 110 HP—a solid amount for a non-evolving Basic. Its main features include the Throwing Coach ability and the Fling attack. The card belongs to the Rapid Strike family, broadening its synergy potential with other cards from this archetype. It has a single Colorless retreat cost and a weakness to Psychic, which is standard for Fighting types. As a Rare card from the Chilling Reign set, it draws attention from both players and collectors alike.

Detailed Card Analysis

The Throwing Coach Ability: A Game-Changing Effect

The highlight of Passimian is undoubtedly its Throwing Coach ability. This effect allows all your Rapid Strike Pokémon to deal 30 more damage to your opponent's Benched Pokémon V and Benched Pokémon-GX. While you can only use one Throwing Coach at a time, the impact on games involving heavy bench targeting is significant. This extra damage can turn the tide, especially against decks that rely on setting up multiple Pokémon V or GX on their Bench.

Fling Attack: Targeted Pressure

Passimian’s sole attack, Fling, costs just one Fighting Energy and deals 20 damage to any of your opponent’s Pokémon—regardless of whether they are Active or Benched. Notably, Weakness and Resistance aren’t applied when attacking Benched Pokémon, but the targeted nature of Fling, combined with the bonus from Throwing Coach, means you can steadily chip away at key threats before they reach their full potential.

HP, Retreat, and Weakness

With 110 HP, Passimian can survive minor hits but remains vulnerable to most main attackers, especially those with Psychic typing. Its single Colorless retreat cost is manageable, ensuring it won’t clog your board if you need to reposition.

Advantages of Using Passimian

• Bench Damage Amplification: The ability to boost bench damage is rare and highly valuable, especially in Rapid Strike decks that utilize spread tactics.
• Energy Efficiency: Both the ability and attack require minimal setup—just a single Fighting Energy for Fling, making Passimian easy to slot into existing builds.
• Flexibility in Deck Construction: As a Basic Pokémon, it doesn’t require evolution lines, freeing up space for other techs or consistency cards.
• Support for Rapid Strike Strategies: It synergizes perfectly with other Rapid Strike cards that focus on multi-target attacks or sniping the bench.

Drawbacks and Limitations

• Limited Direct Offense: Fling’s base damage is modest, and without the right setup, Passimian won’t threaten most Active Pokémon.
• Vulnerability to Psychic Decks: With a double weakness to Psychic, popular attackers of this type can easily Knock Out Passimian.
• Restricted Ability Stack: Only one Throwing Coach can be active at a time, preventing stacking for even higher damage output.
• Dependent on Opponent’s Board: Its effectiveness peaks when your opponent relies heavily on Benched Pokémon V or GX; otherwise, its utility diminishes.

When Is Passimian Most Effective?

Passimian shines in matchups where your opponent plays several Benched Pokémon V or GX, especially in deck archetypes that prioritize bench development. It’s particularly potent against strategies that use the bench for setup or rely on evolving from V to VMAX. In these scenarios, Passimian enables you to apply pressure early and disrupt your opponent’s plans by softening up critical targets before they become threats.

Conversely, if your opponent plays a single-prize attacker deck or avoids benching high-value Pokémon, Passimian’s impact is reduced. In such cases, it may serve as a low-cost attacker or simply as a pivot due to its low retreat cost.

Reasons to Include Passimian in Your Deck

• Bench Sniping Power: If your deck already leverages Rapid Strike mechanics or aims to target the opponent’s bench, Passimian is almost indispensable. The extra damage can secure KOs that would otherwise require multiple turns.
• Meta Adaptability: In metagames dominated by Pokémon V and VMAX, Passimian provides an efficient way to keep pace with high-HP threats.
• Consistency Booster: As a Basic, it’s easy to search out and deploy, providing instant value once on the field.
• Low Opportunity Cost: Since it doesn’t demand complex investments or evolution, adding Passimian to your list rarely disrupts your overall deck structure.

Market Value and Collectibility Analysis

From a value perspective, Passimian holds steady appeal due to its playability in Rapid Strike decks. While not a chase card in terms of rarity, its status as a Rare and popularity within competitive circles ensures consistent demand. The card’s inclusion in the Chilling Reign set, known for its diverse pool of playable cards, further cements its collectibility. For collectors, Passimian offers moderate investment potential, especially for those building complete Rapid Strike or Chilling Reign collections.

In terms of quality-to-price ratio, Passimian excels. Its utility far outweighs its acquisition cost, making it a budget-friendly yet impactful addition for players looking to enhance their deck’s bench-attacking capabilities. This balance between affordability and effectiveness is a major draw for both new and seasoned players.

Strategic Tips: When and How to Play Passimian

• Early Game Deployment: Getting Passimian onto your bench early maximizes the number of turns you benefit from Throwing Coach. Prioritize it in your opening hand or first few draws.
• Pair with Multi-Target Attacks: Use Passimian alongside Rapid Strike Pokémon that can hit multiple targets or snipe the bench. The cumulative damage can add up quickly, swinging the prize race in your favor.
• Adapt to Opponent’s Setup: Monitor your opponent’s bench. If they begin loading up with Pokémon V or GX, prepare to capitalize with Fling or other bench-focused attacks. If not, be ready to pivot Passimian out for other attackers.
• Resource Management: Since only one Throwing Coach can be active, avoid overcommitting Passimian slots. Use deck search and recovery options to retrieve it if needed but don’t flood your bench unnecessarily.
• Retreat Tactically: Thanks to its low retreat cost, Passimian can act as a buffer or pivot point, allowing you to reposition attackers as game states shift.

Deck Synergies and Archetype Integration

Passimian fits seamlessly into Rapid Strike decks, especially those focused on spreading damage across the board. Its ability enhances the output of other Rapid Strike attackers, creating opportunities for surprise knockouts on high-value bench targets. Additionally, decks that rely on manipulating the opponent’s bench or disrupting setup phases will find Passimian’s presence invaluable.

For creative deck builders, Passimian can also function as a tech card in hybrid lists that blend Rapid Strike elements with other Fighting-type strategies. Its low energy requirement and straightforward ability make it easy to incorporate without diluting your primary game plan.

Conclusion: Is Passimian Worth the Slot?

Passimian from Chilling Reign is a versatile and efficient card that punches above its weight in the right context. Its value lies in amplifying bench damage, supporting Rapid Strike synergies, and adapting fluidly to various meta trends. While it isn’t a powerhouse attacker on its own, its strategic impact can’t be overstated—especially in formats where bench management is key.

Whether you’re a competitive player looking for incremental advantages or a collector aiming to complete your set, Passimian offers a blend of utility, affordability, and collectibility. Consider giving it a spot in your next deck build—you might find its subtle strength is exactly what you need to tip the scales in your favor.