Kash Top 30 List: Things to do during Self Isolation/Quarantie/Circuit Breaker

Since I'm turning 30 this year, I thought why not create a few Top 30 lists of things that I like or have done so I've done a few list that covers my interest in just about anything, be it Motorsports, Pokemon, Wrestling, Gaming and also some general things. This one however might have come at the worst possible time.

Yup we're still stuck in this crazy current condition the world is in right now with the virus now having affected 2 million plus people around the world and most of the world are either in lock-down, or as Singapore would say, a "Circuit Breaker". So since most of us are in self-isolation right now, things can be pretty boring at home and I thought I'd try to do a list for things we all could do during these times. For once none of these are ranked, maybe with the exception of number 1 for obvious reasons.

30) Wake Up

It's a simple thing but I'm always thankful to get up in the morning to start my day. It's the simple things in life that matters the most.

29) Wash Up

Especially during these times, please wash up regularly. If you've left the house, wash those hands! You never know what you may have touched.

28) Watch TV

What else is there to do when you're stuck at home right? But we are in this age where TV isn't just enough for most people, the show you really want to watch might not be on at the moment. But it still works. I usually just watch TV for sports and wrestling and well there's no sports going on at the moment. Thankfully we still do have WWE and AEW entertaining us with some live wrasslin action. But if TV is still not enough...

27) Watch YouTube/Twitch

...YouTube has your back! Need to catch something quick for lunch, find something funny to watch on there during that time. I've probably spent most of my time probably just watching stuff on YouTube, from local skits to highlights of past sporting actions or laughing to the comedic genious from Whose Line Is It Anyways or even playing along on Family Feud. My favorite thing to watch right now is a game called Killer Game, it's some good stuff!

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Also Twitch is not a bad spot to check out, more and more people are starting to stream their games so why not support your friends or people you may look up to and chat with them during their streams. If that's still not good...

26) Watch Netflix (Other streaming services applicable)

...Then Netflix (or Hulu, or whatever else is out there) it is! I'm still new to it so I'm not too keen on watching it all the time like some people I know. I'm still watching the classic That 70's Show on there. Drive to Survive is easily my favorite series there. If anyone has got a good series for me to watch, let me know!

25) Watch Virtual Sports

We're in a weird time where almost every sporting league in the world is closed. So what's the best alternative? Virtual sports! I'm not sure about other sports but motorsports have been doing virtual racing a lot lately and it's been fun to follow, I tend to get hooked onto those races, just as I would for the real thing.

F1 have got their own series but with a few of the actual drivers in it on the PC game, IndyCar has most of theirs on iRacing as do Supercars and NASCAR. There's also an all stars series done by the Veloce guys. At least this gives me something to look forward to each weekend.

24) Play Video Games

Most of us are probably doing this anyway right? While I'm still trying to fix my PS4, I've mostly been playing on the PC, usually playing F1 2019, Football Manager or Motorsports Manager. And on Switch it's Mario Kart, Pokemon Sword or Pokemon Let's Go Eevee. I need suggestions for new games to get!!!

Of course, I'm still playing Pokemon TCG Online in a way to keep myself ready just in case we can play in tournaments again (not gonna happen until 2021 at least, that's my guess). But there's still online tournaments to try so why not try my luck there. I am still trying to get better at this game so why not keep practicing on the online game while we're at it.

23) Play Board/Card Games

If you're lucky enough to have others in your house to play games with, why not some old school board games or card games? Things like Monopoly, Uno or Scrabble have and will always be fun to play.

22) Play Online Games with Friends

Why not grab some friends and play an online game together? My friends have been dragging me into playing Skribbl with them. It's a fun game where you try to guess what someone is drawing. I did see an article recently and I thought it was perfect for the current times and why not share it here? Spyfall and Jackbox are another two fun games to try.

https://thesmartlocal.com/read/free-online-games/?fbclid=IwAR2Lpge5K9SXiswT-LIN0tSkUhP74dzXcZTJzz25k5TeJ2fcZ3LPTTd4ELI

21) Video Calls

This one is something I don't really know as I don't have a webcam or a microphone to use nor do I really have any friends to talk to or wanting me to chat with them. But if you're a social person (unlike me) and that's your thing, good on ya!

20) Online Classes

It's not a bad time to pick up a new skill or learn something different to what you're used to and there's plenty of online classes to keep you occupied for the current time being. And well, if you're still a student, you're already doing that.

19) Study

This only really applies to those of us who are still students, catch up on schoolwork and be prepared for future exams or tests. Here's the best part, I'm saying that but yet I've still not done much revision myself. Laziness has taken over me.

18) Make a List/Planning

Even though there's not much to look forward to at the moment since we're all waiting for this pandemic to be over, why not start planning for things to do in the future? Places you want to visit or just things you want to get done around the house? It's a good time to plan your next adventure, whenever we are free to travel around again! Or in my case, make more of these types of lists just to kill time. Or your could also...

17) Write a Blog/Article/Story

...write a blog? Or even a story to let your imagination run wild or hey you're an expert at a certain thing, why not an article. People need things to read about during these times anyway so why not be the one to entertain others with a good read. If that isn't your way to go about things, there is something else to do.

16) Make a Video

Everyone has access to a phone with camera these days and every other joe around the block are doing vlogs these days so why not make a video about life around the house. Or you know, let your imagination run wild with some story and film it. Or just make a video about whatever is on your mind. Or gaming videos, that's always a welcome!

15) Take Pictures

This one is a little tricky since we can't go out much so there's really not much pictures to take but hey, if you've got some interesting stuff around the house, why not have some fun, make your own little stories with it? Like this one of my CharFam collection:

14) Listen to Music

Who else isn't already doing this anyway! Find more music, get a new album to listen to, discover something new, have fun with it.

13) Listen/Watch some Podcasts/Vidcasts

I've been listening to podcasts alot lately, mostly to help me get to sleep. There's a lot of good ones out there be it in audio form or even on video form.

12) Build Something

Remember Lego? Yup that used to be fun, building stuff because we had nothing better to do. Well, there are many other things to build now. A puzzle? A model car (I should be doing that but I'm so bad at it)? A gigantic Lego set? A new computer? A new cabinet? A new island on Animal Crossing (I don't even play the game)?

11) Draw/Paint!

I'm no artist but I do appreciate a good drawing, wish I could do some myself. I'm sure some are trying their hand with this already. And hey, there is a game called Skribbl just for that too (again, I'm very bad at drawing so apologies to anyone who has had to play me in those games).

10) Redecorate your House/Room/Area

I really should do this since my study table is a bit messy with all my notes lying around. It's really the best time to do these kind of things now, make your area look nice since you'll be spending way too much time around here anyways.

9) Online Shopping

Well since you can't go out to get stuff, why not buy stuff online! Some have been doing this for a while now and since some shops might be closed, online shopping is the way to go. I might even do that myself for some things I want to get in a few months time.

8) Try New Food

Speaking of ordering stuff, I'm sure some are already letting their imaginations run wild and cook themselves up a new food to try. Some food stores are closing for the time being so why not be your own chief. This obviously doesn't really apply to me since I'm not one to try new stuff but the funny thing is, I have eaten a few things I don't usually eat already. It's working.

7) Save Money

Probably the number one thing I'm doing right now and I'm a little glad we don't have to go out often because that means I can save more money. I have been spending money the last few years on games and cards and joining tournaments so it's nice to for once, be saving money, something I was good at doing during my teens/early 20s. Hey maybe I can treat myself to something nice once this is all over.

6) Daydream

I'll admit, I do this alot. Sometimes when I'm in need of a break of playing or studying, I'll just stare outside of my window and look at the surrounding, look at the clouds or the airplanes flying past me wondering when I can ever get on one again for my next adventure.

5) Read

People might not believe this but I do like reading books! I've got maybe a bit too many with me but hey now is a good time for starting reading some of them again. Or you know, most of us are probably reading the news almost everyday now thanks to this virus. Before it, I would hardly ever touch news sites, it's mostly boring stuff anyway.

4) Sleep

What else is there to do when there's nothing left to do. Get lots of rest!

3) Exercise or Walk around your Area/House 

This is a little tricky since we can't go out much but with the right equipment at home it's fine! I've got the cycling thingy at home and tend to do 30 minutes om it everyday. And of course walking around the house.

2) Hydrate

Simple thing but please keep yourselves hydrated at all times, especially if you're living in a hot area like myself here in Singapore.

1) Stay at Home

Last but not least, please just stay at home. It's the safest place from catching this virus. Work from home if you can, don't go out too often. Heck, I've not even left my house for almost 3 weeks now, I'm not taking any risks knowing my own situation with my health. So please take care of yourselves and hopefully things will get back to normal.

Not my greatest of lists I've done but I thought I had to share this one. Thanks for reading anyways!

Kash's Top 30 List: Places I want to Visit

Since I'm turning 30 this year, I thought why not create a few Top 30 lists of things that I like or have done so I've done a few list that covers my interest in just about anything, be it Motorsports, Pokemon, Wrestling, Gaming and also some general things. This one however might have come at the worst possible time.

Yes I know what's going on with the world at the moment with the Covid-19 pandemic which means all of us are most likely stuck at home under quarantine trying to avoid contacting this virus. I had always planned a list on 30 places I want to visit and while that may not happen during the next year ( was supposed to make a trip to Alberta, Canada in June and staying there for at least 5 months just in need of a change of environment to help whatever has been bothering me), I'll still give this a shot anyways. It's nice to dream right?

30) Dubai, United Arab Emirates

This one is pretty unlikely but if I had the money, why not? It's got the tallest building in the world, Burj Khalifa. Wouldn't mind seeing what the view must be like from all the way up there! And of course, 105km away from Dubai is Abu Dhabi, home of the the series finale for Formula One. So why not eh?

29) Maldives

This one is a common answer for many, but it does look like a nice place for a quick getaway. If I had the money, why not just relax there.

28) Adelaide, Australia

I've flown above Adelaide many times before when making my usual Singapore to Melbourne trips but never actually visited the place. Have always heard nice things about it but my main reason would be to watch the Adelaide 500, one of VA Supercars' biggest races of the year along with Bathurst in New South Wales.

27) Spielberg, Austria

Another place I want to visit mainly because of motorsports reasons but of all the F1 grand prix events, none might have the most stunning background like the one in Spielberg, must be a really nice place to visit so it's on my list.

26) Bali, Indonesia

I've never actually been there before weirdly enough. Never found the reason to but I've always heard nice things about it from friends and family. Maybe one day I'll finally find a reason to make that short trip there. It's got some of the nice beaches in the world too!

25) Paris, France

I tried to think of other places I would want to visit in Europe but I really couldn't think of anything much so Paris it is. It's got the Eiffel Tower anyway. Also it would be kinda cool to visit the country that hosted the first big event I could remember seeing from my childhood, the World Cup from 1998. Lots of good memories from back then.

24) Mt. Fuji, Japan

Maybe the only place I want to visit in Japan (apart from Motegi) that I've never been to yet. I've seen it from a distance many times before but never when it's close by to me. Being a keen photographer, would love the chance to get a great picture of Mt Fuji live in person someday. Climbing it on the other hand? No thank you. I'll just adore it from afar.

23) Seoul, South Korea

I've been in Korea's airport many times in the past but never actually went out to explore it even for a day. Wouldn't mind doing so sometime in the future, many of my friends have been there but with mixed reactions I must say.

22) Hong Kong

Another one that's on my list mainly due to the stories I've heard from family and friends, sounds like one of the nicer places to visit in Asia honestly. A food heaven for foodies from what I've heard (I'm not).

21) Sweden

20) Norway

19) Finland

I'm just gonna stick all three Nordic countries into one post here. Of all the places in Europe apart from the UK, I've always wanted to visit the Nordic countries the most and also because it's most probably the safest of the lot, unlike places like Netherlands, France and whatever. I do have friends in all four places (Denmark included) and they've always looked great from pictures I've seen. And it's one of the few places I can see the northern lights, something that is very high up my to-do list in life.

18) Belgium

The home of some good chocolates so why not yup? But like many places on this list, it's mainly for racing reasons and this one being the home of one of the best racing circuits in the world (Spa-Francorchamps), I've got to give it a visit one day. Many of my racing friends have been there and all have nothing but great things to say about it.

17) Texas, United States of America

Well howdy! It's always been one of the places I've always been interested to visit in USA. From watching the sights and sounds of it from wrestling shows, F1 or travel shows, it sure seems like a must see place, especially Austin with all the live music going around the area. San Antonio is one of the first places I knew about as a kid and it's one that's high up on my must visit list as well.

16) Swiss Alps

Just look at it! Need I say more?

15) Denmark

It's the home of Lego and Legoland, I have to give it a visit someday in the future. Lego was a big part of my childhood so I'll never forget that part of things. Copenhagen is another place I've always wanted to visit as well, one of the more colourful places I've seen in pictures.

14) Hawaii, United States of America

Similiar reasons for wanting to visit Maldives but way better! My cousins and I have always had this plan where sometime in the future, we'd all meet up (Singapore, Canada and USA) in Hawaii for a family trip and it sure is one of the better places for that kind of stuff. Not too sure if I'd partake in any surfing activies though.

13) Budapest, Hungary

Another place I'd visit for the F1 grand prix there but I've seen pictures from friends who've been there in the past and it's enough to convince me that it's one of the better places to check out as well. It's been said that it's one of the most photogenic places in all of Europe so that's good for someone like myself!

12) Gold Coast, Australia

From what I've heard it's the Miami of Australia so why not! The beaches, the skyline, the theme parks (Warner Brothers), what more can I say? Oh yes, they're also home to one of the best street circuits in the world that used to host IndyCars (and hopefully will in the future).

11) Montreal, Canada

It's another colourful place I've seen in pictures and videos on many shows but again, the main reason would be for F1 as it's the home to my all time favourite circuit in the world, the Gilles Villeneuve street circuit. So many great races have been held there and one day I hope I can watch it live in Montreal.


10) Auckland, New Zealand

The spot of adrenaline junkies! Not quite one myself but I'd visit it for sure. Lots to see to from the moutain ares, the Sky Tower and the beaches! And sand dunes!

9) Florida, United States of America

I've not been to Florida yet still but I've got so many reasons for wanting to go there! Of course the main ones being Disney World but it's also got Universal Studios. David Beckham is about to launch a team there so I've got to see them play someday! It's one of the best spots to play Pokemon TCG as well with many great players around the area. And it's the home of wrestling these days too.


8) Perth, Australia

The closest to Singapore but for some reason I've still not made a trip there, it's only 4 hours away from us too. It's the most isolated city in the world, so perfect for someone like me I guess. Like Gold Coast, the skyline and beaches sure is a plus.

7) Chicago, United States of America

Always been interested to visit Chicago, it's one of those places I've always heard about from a young age. Sears Tower is another one of those places I just have to see. Chicago is known for it's good food and music as well! And it's the home of the Chicago Bulls, Michael Jordan's team so yup i've got to see them play someday in the future.

6) Edinburgh, Scotland

I've always heard good things about the Northern part of UK and Edinburgh is one many of my friends have always talked about. It's another one of those must see places on my list with some of the best views in the world.

5) Toronto, Canada

Probably the #1 place I want to visit in all of Canada. I've always heard so much about Toronto from my family and friends, so I have to visit it. CN Tower is a must visit for me, the views from up there surely is amazing. Niagra Falls isn't that far away as well. Oh and they do host one of the best street cicuits in all of IndyCars as well.

4) Newcastle Upon Tyne, England

Another place in the north of UK that is on my list and one close to my heart. Always been a fan of Newcastle United and when they were featured in the movie Goal!, Newcastle was shown to the whole world and I never realized how amazing the city was. Lots of history surrounding the area, and also lots of museums, castles and beaches. Oh and of course, St James' Park. I need to watch a match there one day.

3) New York, United States of America

Bright lights, big city. It's the place to be right? It's one I definitely have to visit. Just put me in Times Square and I'll just stare into space, admiring the area, most likely with a camera in hand. It's the home of entertainment too and I've always wanted to check out a late night talk show live. The real statue of Liberty is in the area too. And of course, someday in the future, I have to watch a wrestling show live in Madison Square Garden. It's a must!

2) Manchester, England

Another place near and dear to my heart. Probably the very first place I've said I wanted to visit as a kid as well and well....30 years later and I'm still waiting. It's another place with history surrounding it everywhere you go. It's home of some of the best musicians in the world too, most of my favourites (Stone Roses and Oasis in particular) all came from Manchester. And last but not least, my mighty red devils known as Manchester United. It's always been my dream to watch them play at Old Trafford stadium.

1) Indianapolis, United States of America

Surprised? Bet not many were expecting this. If you gave me a ticket to go anywhere in the world, I'd book tickets, specifically in the month of May, for a trip to Indianapolis. It's the home of racing and the home of the biggest race in the world, the Indianapolis 500. Just like it's a dream of watching wrestling in New York and watching football in Manchester, it's always been a dream of mine to watching racing in Indianapolis. And I've heard great things about the area from my friends who have been there too. The Indy Museum is a must visit for sure. And apparently, it's a good spot to play Pokemon TCG as well with many top players around the area.

That's my list, hope you enjoyed it!

OCIC 2020: My first International event - Learning Experience

It's been a week since I was in Melbourne but I never did find the time to reflect on my trip there for the 2020 Oceania International Championship. Easily the biggest event I've ever been to in my Pokemon TCG journey so far.

And in all honesty, I wasn't actually planning to go this year. I was still so bummed about doing so badly at the Singapore SPE and the Kuala Lumpur Regional, with the plan to score points at both events to help myself get closer to my first Worlds invite but ended up not doing well in either. But after speaking to a few friends and my family, they all encouraged me to give it a shot and try my luck at OCIC.

So there we were, planning a trip to Melbourne. Initially it wasn't going to be a solo trip as I was supposed to travel with a friend but he backed out of the trip at the last minute so I was left by myself but luckily I had my usual testing partner Nicholas with me staying at the same hotel in Melbourne and pretty much accompanied me during the trip. I'll always be grateful to him for being there for me throughout the whole season too.

A week before OCIC, I was dead set on Blacephalon UNB as my deck choice for the event with ADP-GX/Zacian V as the backup. And then Mill decks started showing up and knowing how bad of a matchup it was for Blowns, I went back to the drawing board. I still wasn't sure of what to play so I brought along 4 decks to Melbourne. TurboZard, Mew3 (Welder & Psychic), PikaRom and ADP/Zacian.

We did some late night testing at the hotel lobby and I noticed how well TurboZard was actually doing against ADP/Zacian and thought, "well I know the deck better than any, why not go with that?". My main fear for not going with ADP/Zacian was that I wasn't confident enough in the mirror match to win it or play the deck as optimally as possible. Back to TurboZard it was for me.

Just being in the environment at OCIC was quite surreal. Seeing all the big names I've seen play on streams, read about or heard of in living colour did make it more intimidating for me. But at the same time it was so nice to meet some of my overseas friends for the first time as well!

OCIC 2020 Deck choice: Turbo Reshiram & Charizard-GX

Round 1 vs Chen Yen Chun [TW] - Lucario & Melmetal-GX/Zacian V (WW) 1/0/0

First round started nicely for me. My opponent just had a hard time setting up and even though she played Frying Pans I got around it. Both games went my way. Good start to my first internats.

Round 2 vs Alex Baker [US] - Cinccino Mill (WLW) 2/0/0

The dreaded Mill match. And against one of the best from the United States as well. I got lucky in the first game when he prized his Wobbuffet. I couldn't get anything going in the second game and decided to scoop early to give myself a chance to win the third game. Game 3 was a really close one, targeting his Wobb almost every turn I got. I came within 4 or 5 cards of losing but on the last turn I drew the energy I needed to take the game. Great opponent and I was glad he did end up getting his points.

Round 3 vs Wong Wei Kit [SG] - Blacephalon UNB (LL) 2/1/0

Now here's someone I'm too familar with. The worst part was that he was 1/1/0 so we got up/down paired. And I knew this was a bad matchup as the last few times I played him, he was on Blowns. Sure enough, he was still on Blowns. I misplayed badly in the first game and just never got going in the second one since I had to start with ReshiZard, a big no-no.

Round 4 vs Preston Ellis [US] - Shedinja/Zebstrika Control (LWT) 2/1/1

Another name I was familiar with from overseas. I had some idea of what I was going into having watched Preston on stream for a bit during the first round. I couldn't get my ideal setup for the first game so I scooped once he had most of his guys with Shedinja attached. Second game went better for me but I saw he started to go after my Ninetales. Thankfully it wasn't enough. We just didn't have enough time to finish the third game and if it didn't go to time, I think I had him as I was just three prizes away from winning.

Round 5 vs Man Tsung Wong [HK] - ADP-GX/Zacian V (LWL) 2/2/1

Finally an ADP Zacian match, the one matchup I've practiced against the most. And all my practice went down the drain early on with a horrible start and I scooped. Second game went according to plan, Zard doing the business and taking 5 prizes after 3 turns as planned. Game 3 wasn't my finest moment, for some reasonm I went for Heatran instead of ReshiZard and got punished for it when it got the clean KO on me. His Magcargo tech won him the game. He ended up finish top 16 in the whole event too.

Round 6 vs Bo Chen [AU] - Mewtwo & Mew-GX/Malamar Toolbox (WW) 3/2/1

I was feeling a little down going into this one. Finally went 2/0/0 at a big event only for the next three rounds to go so badly. This round gave me hope still. I was a bit fearful of the Mew3 Mally matchup but luckily for me my opponent never did get the proper set up in either games.

Round 7 vs Francesco Pasquale Caterino [IT] - ADP-GX/Zacian V (LL) 3/3/1

Even though I took two losses here those two games were close, some of my favourite games of the whole weekend too. Glad that Francesco got his points as well, another great guy I met along with Alex from these games. Both games I couldn't find the pieces I needed to take the big KOs and he made me pay for it.

Round 8 vs Angus Johnson [AU] - Cinccino Mill (LL) 3/4/1

This one hurt. I was happy seeing Mill knowing what to do after my games with Alex but I couldn't get going in the first game. The second game was just heartbreaking. Angus went for an early Bellman mill and took out my only Ninetales (the other being prized and I really needed that Tales). That shook me and I never recovered from that, I let the pressure get to me and started playing badly. This ended my hopes of scoring points with a Top 128 finish.

Round 9 vs Ben Nihill [AU] - ADP-GX/Zacian V (LWL) 3/5/1

I just wasn't playing my best during these games, I was already feeling very down after how the last few games and just wanted the day to end. Nice guy but I felt bad I couldn't give him a proper game with my heart just not being in the match. I somehow brought it to a 3rd game but once again never found the pieces I needed to take those early prizes.

I did learn a lot from those games but the biggest takeaway for me was just falling to pressure, especially in Rounds 3, 5 and 8. I was put in an awkward spot in those games and I didn't make the right decisions and paid the price for it. Still was a good learning experience playing against guys from overseas and playing against guys who are some of the top players in their region, be it US, Europe or Oceania. I would end up trying my luck in the League Cup and Challenge, mainly to gain more experience playing against guys from overseas, a rare chance that I usually don't get so why not?

League Cup deck choice: ADP-GX/Zacian V

Round 1 vs Favio Perez [AU] - Mewtwo & Mew-GX/Welder Toolbox (WW) 1/0/0
Round 2 vs Erin Peebles [AU] - Whimsicott-GX/Porygon-Z (WW) 2/0/0
Round 3 vs Matthew Bray [AU] - Pikachu & Zekrom-GX (LWL) 2/1/0
Round 4 vs Angus Johnson [AU] - ADP-GX/Zacian V (LL) 2/2/0
Round 5 vs Ying Hao Tou [AU] - ADP-GX/Zacian V (WLW) 3/2/0
Round 6 vs Michael Kan [AU] - Turbo Reshiram & Charizard-GX (LL) 3/3/0
Round 7 vs Nicholas Moore [AU] - Pikachu & Zekrom-GX (WW) 4/3/0

Once again I started 2/0/0 only to mess up in the next few rounds. Matt's PikaRom was incredibly consistent, I just got lucky in the game 2 to take the win from him before he demolished me again. The mirror match for ADP/Zacian really isn't the nicest thing. The only reason I beat my friend Ying was because he had a terrible setup going in game 3. I was so stunned by how bad it was for him I even promoted the wrong pokemon to take my final KO but he brought up my Zacian just to make sure. It was cool to play against the top guys from Australia, hopefully it won't be the only time. Ended up 4/3/0 with ADP/Zacian, and hey, more wins then losses is always nice I suppose.

Always it was a funny League Cup as they misspelt a lot of names at the start. I was Kushvinder at one point. My friend Jesper Eriksen ended up as Zesper! We all got a good laugh out of it. He even gave me one of his dices because he saw I didn't bring a big dice, good dude! Sadly he lost in his top 8 match but glad that he got his points.

League Challenge deck choice: Turbo Reshiram & Charizard-GX

Round 1 vs James Pritchard [AU] - Pikachu & Zekrom-GX (W) 1/0/0
Round 2 vs Henry Brand [AU] - Mewtwo & Mew-GX/Solgaelo GX Toolbox (W) 2/0/0
Round 3 vs Yoshiyuki Yamaguchi [JP] - Turbo Zacian V (L) 2/1/0 [Prized two Vulpix here yikes]
Round 4 vs Rown Farren [AU] - Mewtwo & Mew-GX/Welder Toolbox (L) 2/2/0
Round 5 vs Rhys Christian [DE] - Blacephalon UNB/Greens (L) 3/2/0

This was the most stacked League Challenge I've ever seen. Even the other guys were saying that. I mean look at the players who entered! Pedro Torres, Henry Brand, Kaiwen Cabbabe, Ethan Lee, Francesco Caterino, Isaiah Bradner, Raz Wolfe, Ying Hao Tou and the top Japanese players were in this as well! How the heck would little old me fare up against these guys?

I ended up finishing 9th, just one spot away from 8 CP. The games were fun, especially against Henry, Yoshiyuki and Rhys. I still found it crazy that I got to play against the defending World Champion Henry and somehow beat him. That might have been my best game of the whole weekend, even Henry said I made all the right plays which was pretty cool to hear from him! That really lifted my spirits after what was a terrible weekend for me gaming wise.

And now I'm back home, still trying to process the whole trip. I did take some valuable lessons aways from it:

• Pressure. I really need to deal with pressure better. In all three events, I found myself in a good spot only to screw it up. Started all three events 2/0/0 and sure enough lost the next ones and in the case of OCIC itself, never really recovered from it. 
• Decision Making. Once again, I made a few bad decisions that cost me games. Such as gusting the wrong Blacephalon in my match against Wei Kit or using Heatran instead of ReshiZard in two of my games against ADP/Zacian. Also for deck choices. I should have gone with Victini V but ended up not doing thinking I might never get all my energies for Heatran/Turtonator
• Confidence. I'll be honest and I can say I've always lacked confidence going into a big event. I thought I didn't pick the right deck going into OCIC, worried that ReshiZard would do the same thing it did to me at Singapore SPE, just give me dead hands and not much to do. It was the right call after all and a few friends said I made the right decision, I should not have doubted my deck choice. 
• Maybe I'm not so bad at this game after all. I did start 2/0/0 in all three events. I just need to learn how to keep that kind of momentum going, not make bad calls, not pressure myself into a mistake, be a bit more confident and hopefully I can start doing better at these big events on a more consistent basis. 

I did have my fun but also I still feel that I've let myself down once again, ending up the weekend with no CP to show for my efforts. I still need 159 CPs and that may not sound like much but with the limited chances I have of going to any more big events and the amount of cups we have, it might be all but over for me in that hopes to get my first Worlds invite. Maybe this wasn't the year for me but I am still motivated to do even better in future games (starting with this weekend's League Challenge and the final Pro Circuit Invitational). Not sure how I can get that invite now but I'll still try my best.

I hope you enjoyed my little recap of my time in OCIC. Just wanted to share my experience at the biggest event I've been to and I hope it can help others in the future. 

Sword & Shield Base Set: What new decks to try and how much they cost?

The new era of Pokemon Trading Card Game has begun! Sword & Shield base set has just hit stores this weekend which means it's time for everyone to pick up their boxes and packs and starting getting their hands on the new cards. Some have already been testing for the new format, especially with the Oceania International Championships in mind (especially for those of us here).

Others might still not know what decks to play so this article is meant to help those with the 15 best decks according to Japanese local leagues. From the data on pokecaminv, there have been 911 winning deck lists on their sites but the only thing I'll use from there is the winning percentage of the decks to have won a league there.

I'll also add a % number of cards in the deck that will be affected by the next rotation (Team Up onwards) just to give an early indication if the deck may be worth investing in for the long term or not, but that itself may be a bit too early to say.

I won't be using their lists though as some might not realise, our format is a little different to Japan. There are a few key cards that have rotated from their A block that we still have access to so you won't see these cards in their lists:

• Energy Recycler
• Hau
• Lana
• Lillie
• Lusamine
• Peeking Red Card
• Super Scoop Up

It won't affect decks much as most will move away from playing Lillie since Supporters can't be used in Turn 1 for the playing going first and most will still want to go first. The only real big loss for them would be Super Scoop Up for Tag Team decks and Energy Recycler for decks like Charizard TEU. 

The decks I'm profiling are from some of the best Pokemon TCG content creators on YouTube mainly because I feel their decks are better for those wanting a list to start from scratch (and I tend to watch their videos, had to give them so love here). The Japanese lists have a lot of interesting techs and spice in them but this article is mainly meant to be a starting point for the first few weeks of the new Sword & Shield meta, and also for newer or returning players to see which decks to start off with. I hope you'll find this helpful.

I'll also give a few comments on each decks. Just remember, it's just my own opinion and I'm not someone with much success in the game (locally too) so do take my own views with a pinch of salt. If it does help someone then that's great.


Arceus & Dialga & Palkia-GX (with Zacian V)

Arceus & Dialga & Palkia-GX
Omnipoke
Card	Set	Qty	Price	Total Cost
Arceus & Dialga & Palkia-GX	CEC	2	$13.47	$26.94
Zacian V	SWSH	4	$29.98	$119.92
Jirachi	TEU	3	$27.99	$83.97
Oranguru	SWSH	1	$6.97	$6.97
Absol	TEU	1	$8.99	$8.99
Professor's Research	SWSH	4	$8.97	$35.88
Marnie	SWSH	2	$6.47	$12.94
Guzma & Hala	CEC	2	$0.41	$0.82
Cynthia & Caitlin	CEC	1	$3.27	$3.27
Mallow & Lana	CEC	1	$1.78	$1.78
Quick Ball	SWSH	4	$2.48	$9.92
Metal Saucer	SWSH	4	$1.78	$7.12
Custom Catcher	LOT	4	$5.19	$20.76
Switch	SWSH	4	$0.24	$0.96
Tag Call	CEC	3	$0.45	$1.35
Reset Stamp	UNM	1	$0.64	$0.64
Great Catcher	CEC	1	$0.78	$0.78
Vitality Band	SWSH	1	$0.47	$0.47
Escape Board	UPR	1	$0.20	$0.20
Metal Frying Pan	FLI	1	$0.95	$0.95
Lysandre Labs	FLI	1	$0.48	$0.48
Viridian Forest	TEU	1	$0.20	$0.20
Shrine of Punishment	CES	1	$6.33	$6.33
Metal Energy		10		$0.00
Unit Energy GRW	UPR	1	$0.65	$0.65
Aurora Energy	SWSH	1	$0.68	$0.68
Total		60		$352.97

Winning Decks rate in Japanese Leagues: 22.06%

Rotation Effect (Team Up to Sword & Shield cards in deck): 15%

• Altered Creation is still amazing! Helps Zacian to take KO Tag Teams with a little help from damage modifiers
• Deck wants to go first to get ADP ready and make full use of Intrepid Sword ability
• ADP to remain in at the top tier this time with Zacian as it's partner of choice
• Slow Turn 1 and Turn 2s, can fall to decks that force early pressure

Malamar (with Mewtwo & Mew-GX)

Mewtwo & Mew-GX
Tablemon
Card	Set	Qty	Price	Total Cost
Inkay	FLI	3	$0.20	$0.60
Malamar	FLI	3	$0.20	$0.60
Mewtwo & Mew-GX	UNM	2	$14.99	$29.98
Trevenant & Dusknoir-GX	PR	2	$19.97	$39.94
Gengar & Mimikyu-GX	TEU	1	$7.99	$7.99
Indeedee V	SWSH	1	$3.99	$3.99
Naganadel-GX	UNM	1	$2.99	$2.99
Latios-GX	UNM	1	$3.49	$3.49
Dragonite-GX	UNM	1	$5.98	$5.98
Jigglypuff & Mega Lopunny-GX	CEC	1	$4.08	$4.08
Dedenne-GX	UNB	2	$33.89	$67.78
Professor's Research	SWSH	4	$8.97	$35.88
Marnie	SWSH	4	$6.47	$25.88
Quick Ball	SWSH	4	$2.48	$9.92
Mysterious Treasure	FLI	4	$1.49	$5.96
Switch	SWSH	4	$0.24	$0.96
Cherish Ball	UNM	3	$0.80	$2.40
Great Catcher	CEC	2	$0.78	$1.56
Air Balloon	SWSH	2	$0.98	$1.96
Big Charm	SWSH	2	$0.74	$1.48
Choatic Swell	CEC	3	$0.20	$0.60
Psychic Energy		10		$0.00
Total		60		$254.02

Winning Decks rate in Japanese Leagues: 10.43%

Rotation Effect (Team Up to Sword & Shield cards in deck): Malamar Rotated

• Two of the best decks in the previous formats are now teaming up! This deck will be the main face for the new hand disruption archetype with Marnie and Trevenant & Dusknor's Night Watch attack in mind
• Set up decks can fall to a Turn 1 Horror House GX
• Likely to be a Tier 1 deck in this format. 3 Top 8 finishes at the Aichi Champions League
• Very ability reliant, still needs to set up Malamars and needs Perfection to stay alive

Zacian V (with Lucario & Melmetal-GX)

Zacian V
Aichi Champions League 2nd Place (Ryoji Saotome)
Card	Set	Qty	Price	Total Cost
Zacian V	SWSH	4	$29.98	$119.92
Lucario & Melmetal-GX	UNB	2	$4.68	$9.36
Dusk Mane Necrozma	PR	1	$9.99	$9.99
Mew	UNB	1	$0.97	$0.97
Mimikyu	CEC	1	$0.53	$0.53
Absol	TEU	1	$8.99	$8.99
Oranguru	SWSH	1	$6.97	$6.97
Professor's Research	SWSH	4	$8.97	$35.88
Marnie	SWSH	2	$6.47	$12.94
Mallow & Lana	CEC	2	$1.78	$3.56
Cynthia & Caitlin	CEC	1	$3.27	$3.27
Erika's Hospitality	HIF	1	$0.20	$0.20
Quick Ball	SWSH	4	$2.48	$9.92
Metal Saucer	SWSH	4	$1.78	$7.12
Custom Catcher	LOT	4	$5.19	$20.76
Switch	SWSH	4	$0.24	$0.96
Crushing Hammer	SWSH	3	$0.24	$0.72
Tag Call	CEC	2	$0.45	$0.90
Great Catcher	CEC	1	$0.78	$0.78
Metal Frying Pan	FLI	3	$0.95	$2.85
Air Balloon	SWSH	1	$0.98	$0.98
Choatic Swell	CEC	2	$0.20	$0.40
Metal Energy		11		$0.00
Total		60		$257.97

Winning Decks rate in Japanese Leagues: 9.76%

Rotation Effect (Team Up to Sword & Shield cards in deck): 13.33%

• Zacian is the best Pokemon card to come out of this set and like ADP before, it's expected to be a top tier contender right of the bat, with many Metal support to go by in this set
• Full Metal Wall and Frying Pan helps to make Zacian a tanky monster to take down
• Finalist at Aichi Champions League, still unsure which version of Zacian will be top tier but it will be there
• Being a V and Tag Team based decks will can hurt in certain matches even with it's tankability

Pikachu & Zekrom-GX (non Tag Call package)

Pikachu & Zekrom-GX
Tricky Gym
Card	Set	Qty	Price	Total Cost
Pikachu & Zekrom-GX	TEU	2	$10.99	$21.98
Raichu & Alolan Raichu-GX	UNM	1	$4.99	$4.99
Jirachi	TEU	3	$27.99	$83.97
Dedenne-GX	UNB	2	$33.89	$67.78
Zeraora-GX	LOT	1	$11.97	$11.97
Tapu Koko V	SWSH	1	$7.47	$7.47
Tapu Koko Prism	TEU	1	$3.49	$3.49
Zapdos	TEU	1	$0.59	$0.59
Volkner	UPR	4	$0.89	$3.56
Professor's Research	SWSH	3	$8.97	$26.91
Switch	SWSH	4	$0.24	$0.96
Electropower	LOT	4	$0.46	$1.84
Custom Catcher	LOT	4	$5.19	$20.76
Quick Ball	UNB	4	$2.48	$9.92
Electromagnetic Radar	UNB	3	$0.20	$0.60
Energy Switch	SWSH	3	$0.24	$0.72
Reset Stamp	UNM	2	$0.64	$1.28
Escape Board	UPR	2	$0.20	$0.40
Great Catcher	CEC	1	$0.78	$0.78
Stadium Nav	UNM	1	$0.20	$0.20
Thunder Mountain PS	LOT	1	$1.27	$1.27
Viridian Forest	TEU	1	$0.20	$0.20
Lighting Energy		11		$0.00
Total		60		$271.64

Winning Decks rate in Japanese Leagues: 9.00%

Rotation Effect (Team Up to Sword & Shield cards in deck): 26.66%

• PikaRom doesn't gain much from the set but Quick Ball is just what it needed! Deck doesn't mind going first but Turn 1 Full Blitz is very possible. Tapu Koko V a welcome addition too
• The deck always shone in a fast paced meta and expected to do the same in the next format, likely to resurface back near or in the top tier
• Won the Aichi Champions League with another top 4 finish, as if any more proof was needed if the deck was amazing again
• Still a multiple prized based deck at the end of the day

Morpeko V

Morpeko V
Rare Candy
Card	Set	Qty	Price	Total Cost
Jirachi	TEU	4	$27.99	$111.96
Morpeko V	SWSH	3	$3.49	$10.47
Morpeko V-Max	SWSH	1	$7.98	$7.98
Tapu Koko V	SWSH	1	$7.47	$7.47
Oricorio-GX	CEC	1	$2.99	$2.99
Oranguru	SWSH	1	$6.97	$6.97
Absol	TEU	1	$8.99	$8.99
Mew	UNB	1	$0.97	$0.97
Tapu Koko Prism	TEU	1	$3.49	$3.49
Marnie	SWSH	4	$6.47	$25.88
Volkner	UPR	3	$0.89	$2.67
Rosa	CEC	2	$5.90	$11.80
Lillie's Poke Doll	CEC	4	$0.20	$0.80
Electropower	LOT	4	$0.46	$1.84
Quick Ball	SWSH	4	$2.48	$9.92
Custom Catcher	LOT	4	$5.19	$20.76
Switch	SWSH	3	$0.24	$0.72
Escape Board	UPR	2	$0.20	$0.40
Pokemon Communication	TEU	1	$0.20	$0.20
Great Catcher	CEC	1	$0.78	$0.78
Counter Gain	LOT	1	$0.34	$0.34
Stadium Nav	UNM	1	$0.20	$0.20
Reset Stamp	UNM	1	$0.64	$0.64
Thunder Mountain Prism	LOT	1	$1.27	$1.27
Lighting Energy		8		$0.00
Recycle Energy	UNM	2	$0.20	$0.40
Total		60		$239.91

Winning Decks rate in Japanese Leagues: 6.80%

Rotation Effect (Team Up to Sword & Shield cards in deck): 25%

• New Hit-And-Run style archetype in the form of Morpeko V. Will most likely become the preferred partner of choice for decks going with a prize denial style deck with Dolls
• Lighting decks have lots of help in the form of Electropower, Volkner, Thunder Mountain PS and Tapu Koko Prism
• 5th most winningest decks in local leagues in Japan. 3% representation in the top 70 in Aichi
• Decks that has resources to multiple gusting will have a better time against this deck as would energy denial decks

Blacephalon UNB (with Jirachi)

Blacephalon
Ptcgradio
Card	Set	Qty	Price	Total Cost
Jirachi	TEU	3	$27.99	$83.97
Blacephalon	UNB	4	$1.22	$4.88
Blacephalon-GX	LOT	1	$6.24	$6.24
Oricorio-GX	CEC	1	$2.99	$2.99
Cramorant V	SWSH	1	$2.99	$2.99
Mew	UNB	1	$0.97	$0.97
Phione	CEC	1	$0.38	$0.38
Welder	UNB	4	$0.20	$0.80
Quick Ball	SWSH	4	$2.48	$9.92
Fiery Flint	DRM	4	$2.38	$9.52
Fire Crystal	UNB	4	$0.20	$0.80
Acro Bike	CES	4	$0.88	$3.52
Switch	SWSH	3	$0.24	$0.72
Enery Retrieval	SWSH	3	$0.24	$0.72
Escape Board	UPR	2	$0.20	$0.40
Lucky Egg	SWSH	2	$0.24	$0.48
Adventure Bag	LOT	1	$0.29	$0.29
Pal Pad	SWSH	1	$0.47	$0.47
Ultra Space	FLI	1	$1.46	$1.46
Heat Factory Prism	LOT	1	$3.96	$3.96
Fire Energy		14		$0.00
Total		60		$135.48

Winning Decks rate in Japanese Leagues: 5.49%

Rotation Effect (Team Up to Sword & Shield cards in deck): 23.33%

• Ever since it was introduced, Blacephalon UNB has had a presence in the game as the one of the best single prize attackers. The deck gains many tools from Sword & Shield to possibly jump it up into the top tier.
• It's drawing power with Lucky Egg, Oricorio-GX, Heat Factory Prism and Welder helps to piece up all the puzzle for the unlimited amount of damage
• Deck hasn't seen much success in Japan yet but has been hyped heavily by many. First two Sword & Shield local league tournaments here in Singapore have seen this deck finish in 1st place
• Very combo reliant. Decks can play around it's strategy with hand disruption or Lysandre Labs.

Mewtwo & Mew-GX (Fire Toolbox)

Mewtwo & Mew-GX
The Sableyes
Card	Set	Qty	Price	Total Cost
Mewtwo & Mew-GX	UNM	3	$14.99	$44.97
Dedenne-GX	UNB	4	$33.89	$135.56
Jigglypuff & Mega Lopunny-GX	CEC	1	$4.08	$4.08
Reshiram & Charizard-GX	UNB	1	$12.84	$12.84
Magcargo-GX	LOT	1	$2.99	$2.99
Charizard-GX	HIF	1	$3.69	$3.69
Victini V	SWSH	1	$3.79	$3.79
Solgaelo-GX	PR	1	$8.98	$8.98
Naganadel-GX	UNM	1	$2.99	$2.99
Latios-GX	UNM	1	$3.49	$3.49
Jirachi-GX	UNM	1	$2.99	$2.99
Marshadow	UNB	1	$3.26	$3.26
Mewtwo	UNB	1	$0.20	$0.20
Welder	UNB	4	$0.20	$0.80
Cherish Ball	UNM	4	$0.80	$3.20
Quick Ball	SWSH	4	$2.48	$9.92
Custom Catcher	LOT	4	$5.19	$20.76
Acro Bike	CES	4	$0.88	$3.52
Switch	SWSH	2	$0.24	$0.48
Reset Stamp	UNM	2	$0.64	$1.28
Great Catcher	CEC	1	$0.78	$0.78
Energy Recycle System	CES	1	$0.48	$0.48
Stealthy Hood	UNB	1	$0.20	$0.20
Giant Hearth	UNM	3	$0.60	$1.80
Lysandre Labs	FLI	1	$0.48	$0.48
Fire Energy		8		$0.00
Psychic Energy		3		$0.00
Total		60		$273.53

Winning Decks rate in Japanese Leagues: 4.61%

Rotation Effect (Team Up to Sword & Shield cards in deck): 20%

• As long as GXes are still available, Mewtwo & Mew-GX will still be played and it will still be good. Fire box may not be favoured anymore over the new Marnie/Hand Distruption version but it's still good
• Deck was the BDIF in the previous format for being able to handle any and all types of decks. It can still threaten a 300 damage attack in Turn 2. May fall off the top tier but still a strong contender nonetheless 
• Was the 4th most represented deck in the top 70 at the Aichi Champions League
• Relying on just Welder is not a good idea with the new Mew3 deck in mind.

Torkoal V (with Magcargo-GX)

Torkoal V
Celio's Network
Card	Set	Qty	Price	Total Cost
Slugma	LOT	4	$0.33	$1.32
Magcargo-GX	LOT	3	$2.99	$8.97
Magcargo	CES	2	$0.32	$0.64
Oranguru	SWSH	2	$6.97	$13.94
Dedenne-GX	UNB	2	$33.89	$67.78
Torkoal V	SWSH	1	$2.98	$2.98
Ditto Prism	LOT	1	$8.82	$8.82
Volcanion	UNB	1	$1.88	$1.88
Mewtwo & Mew-GX	UNM	1	$14.99	$14.99
Welder	UNB	4	$0.20	$0.80
Cynthia	UPR	2	$0.46	$0.92
Marnie	UNM	1	$6.47	$6.47
Quick Ball	UNM	4	$2.48	$9.92
Pokemon Communication	TEU	4	$0.20	$0.80
Custom Catcher	LOT	4	$5.19	$20.76
Switch	SWSH	3	$0.24	$0.72
Fire Crystal	UNB	2	$0.20	$0.40
Evolution Incense	SWSH	2	$0.98	$1.96
Cherish Ball	UNM	1	$0.80	$0.80
Reset Stamp	UNM	1	$0.64	$0.64
Giant Hearth	UNM	3	$0.60	$1.80
Fire Energy		12		$0.00
Total		60		$167.31

Winning Decks rate in Japanese Leagues: 4.50%

Rotation Effect (Team Up to Sword & Shield cards in deck): 26.66%

• Torkoal V may just help bring Magcargo-GX into relevance in the game. The obvious combo of Oranguru's Monkey Wisdom ability with both Magcargo's ability may be very tempting for others to give this archetype a try
• Like Blacephalon, has a high damage output, be it for 3 energies with Torkoal or unlimited amount with Magcargo-GX. Could feature strongly in tier 2
• It was the surprise deck of the Aichi Champions League, finishing in 10th place
• Multiple Magcargos are still needed to set up. Has a hard time dealing with hand disruption style decks since it's very reliant on Welder

Rowlet & Alolan Exeggutor-GX (with Rillaboom)

Rowlet & Alolan Exeggutor-GX
The Sableyes
Card	Set	Qty	Price	Total Cost
Grookey	SWSH	3	$0.25	$0.75
Thwackey	SWSH	3	$0.25	$0.75
Rillaboom	SWSH	3	$1.47	$4.41
Rowlet & Alolan Exeggutor-GX	UNM	3	$6.49	$19.47
Phermosa & Buzzwole-GX	UNB	1	$3.99	$3.99
Venusaur & Snivy-GX	CEC	1	$3.45	$3.45
Mewtwo & Mew-GX	UNM	1	$14.99	$14.99
Shaymin Prism	TEU	1	$0.69	$0.69
Professor's Research	SWSH	2	$8.97	$17.94
Bill's Analysis	HIF	2	$0.20	$0.40
Coach Trainer	UNM	1	$0.20	$0.20
Cynthia & Caitlin	CEC	1	$3.27	$3.27
Mallow & Lana	CEC	1	$1.78	$1.78
Guzma & Hala	CEC	1	$0.41	$0.41
Net Ball	LOT	4	$0.20	$0.80
Custom Catcher	LOT	4	$5.19	$20.76
Quick Ball	SWSH	2	$2.48	$4.96
Pokemon Communication	TEU	2	$0.20	$0.40
Tag Call	CEC	2	$0.45	$0.90
Rare Candy	SWSH	2	$0.24	$0.48
Air Ballon	SWSH	2	$0.98	$1.96
Ordinary Rod	SWSH	1	$0.73	$0.73
Reset Stamp	UNM	1	$0.64	$0.64
Energy Recycle System	CES	1	$0.48	$0.48
Hyper Potion	SWSH	1	$0.33	$0.33
Viridian Forest	TEU	1	$0.20	$0.20
Life Forest Prism	LOT	1	$0.32	$0.32
Grass Energy		10		$0.00
Weakness Guard Energy	UNM	1	$1.08	$1.08
Auora Energy	SWSH	1	$0.68	$0.68
Total		60		$107.22

Winning Decks rate in Japanese Leagues: 3.95%

Rotation Effect (Team Up to Sword & Shield cards in deck): 15%

• The introduction of Rillaboom might just be what EggRow needed to push into the top tiers of the game. It won't take long to get Rillaboom set-up with Super Growth in mind.
• Vikavolt decks in the past have always seen success in the game in the past, Rillaboom should do the same for a number of other decks as well
• Like Morpeko V before, had a 3% representation in the top 70 at the Aichi Champions League. 9th most winningest deck in Japan should say a lot as well
• Grass is still a very awkward typing in the game as long as Welder is around. Tag Team based deck too

Reshiram & Charizard-GX (Turbo)

Reshiram & Charizard-GX
pokecaminv
Card	Set	Qty	Price	Total Cost
Jirachi	TEU	4	$27.99	$111.96
Dedenne-GX	UNB	3	$33.89	$101.67
Vulpix	TEU	2	$0.21	$0.42
Ninetales	TEU	2	$0.39	$0.78
Reshiram & Charizard-GX	UNB	1	$12.84	$12.84
Jigglypuff & Mega Lopunny-GX	CEC	1	$4.08	$4.08
Heatran-GX	UNM	1	$2.98	$2.98
Blacephalon-GX	LOT	1	$6.24	$6.24
Victini Prism	DRM	1	$6.94	$6.94
Victini V	SWSH	1	$3.79	$3.79
Marshadow	UNB	1	$3.26	$3.26
Welder	UNB	4	$0.20	$0.80
Quick Ball	SWSH	4	$2.48	$9.92
Pokemon Communication	TEU	4	$0.20	$0.80
Switch	SWSH	4	$0.24	$0.96
Escape Board	UPR	2	$0.20	$0.40
Pal Pad	SWSH	1	$0.47	$0.47
Giant Hearth	UNM	3	$0.60	$1.80
Lysandre Labs	FLI	1	$0.48	$0.48
Heat Factory Prism	LOT	1	$3.96	$3.96
Fire Energy		18		$0.00
Total		60		$274.55

Winning Decks rate in Japanese Leagues: 3.62%

Rotation Effect (Team Up to Sword & Shield cards in deck): 10%

• TurboZard will still be a thing for as long as Welder is in the format. The new no-Supporter on Turn 1 rule does force the deck to hope to go 2nd which may not be ideal. 
• Turn 2 for 300 damage will be a rarity now. Deck may not be top tier contender but Victini Prism and Ninetales being in the deck should still see it having success from time to time Zacian V does have a Fire weakness which could lead others to give the deck another try
• Hasn't been talked about by any of the content creators on YouTube thus having to use a Japanese list. Still had a 6% representation at the Aichi Champions League though.
• Hand disruption will continue to be the deck's downfall now that Marnie has hit the scene

Galarian Obstagoon (with Sableye V)

Galarian Obstagoon
Celio's Network
Card	Set	Qty	Price	Total Cost
Galarian Zizagoon	SWSH	4	$0.69	$2.76
Galarian Linoone	SWSH	3	$0.25	$0.75
Galarian Obstagoon	SWSH	3	$2.47	$7.41
Sableye V	SWSH	2	$3.49	$6.98
Yveltal-GX	FLI	1	$4.49	$4.49
Mimikyu	CEC	1	$0.53	$0.53
Phione	CEC	1	$0.38	$0.38
Cynthia	UPR	4	$0.46	$1.84
Marnie	SWSH	2	$6.47	$12.94
Rosa	CEC	2	$5.90	$11.80
PokeGear 3.0	SWSH	4	$0.34	$1.36
Quick Ball	SWSH	4	$2.48	$9.92
Evolution Incense	SWSH	4	$0.98	$3.92
Rare Candy	SWSH	3	$0.24	$0.72
Lillie's Poke Doll	CEC	3	$0.20	$0.60
Lucky Egg	SWSH	2	$0.24	$0.48
Reset Stamp	UNM	1	$0.64	$0.64
U-Turn Board	UNM	1	$0.20	$0.20
Great Catcher	CEC	1	$0.78	$0.78
Adventure Bag	LOT	1	$0.29	$0.29
Pokemon Catcher	SWSH	1	$0.24	$0.24
Ordinary Rod	SWSH	1	$0.73	$0.73
Switch	SWSH	1	$0.24	$0.24
Choatic Swell	CEC	1	$0.20	$0.20
Dark Energy		9		$0.00
Total		60		$70.20

Winning Decks rate in Japanese Leagues: 2.63%

Rotation Effect (Team Up to Sword & Shield cards in deck): 10%

• Galarian Obstagoon brings a new spread archetype into the game. The ability has seen past success in the form of the older Crobat decks. Helps Sableye V and Yveltal-GX to attain big KOs
• Obstruct may be the most underated new attack. Many top tier decks are just Basic focused which will give them a hard time if they don't have gusting options. Possibly the best anti-meta deck.
• Hasn't seen much success in Japan but it's another deck heavily hyped by many top players. 
• Still is a Stage 2 deck and Sableye V needs two Dark energies which may be a big issue with no real energy accelration for Dark types in Standard

Lapras V-Max (with Frosmoth)

Lapras V-Max
Omnipoke
Card	Set	Qty	Price	Total Cost
Lapras V	SWSH	2	$4.79	$9.58
Lapras V-Max	SWSH	2	$10.47	$20.94
Jirachi	TEU	3	$27.99	$83.97
Snom	SWSH	3	$0.49	$1.47
Frosmoth	SWSH	3	$3.97	$11.91
Blastoise & Piplup-GX	CEC	2	$5.99	$11.98
Palkia-GX	FLI	1	$9.99	$9.99
Volcanion Prism	FLI	1	$1.29	$1.29
Dedenne-GX	UNB	1	$33.89	$33.89
Professor's Research	SWSH	4	$8.97	$35.88
Marnie	SWSH	2	$6.47	$12.94
Cynthia & Caitlin	CEC	1	$3.27	$3.27
Mallow & Lana	CEC	1	$1.78	$1.78
Misty & Lorelei	CEC	1	$0.20	$0.20
Fisherman	CES	1	$0.27	$0.27
Quick Ball	SWSH	4	$2.48	$9.92
Pokemon Communication	TEU	3	$0.20	$0.60
Switch	SWSH	3	$0.24	$0.72
Tag Call	CEC	2	$0.45	$0.90
Energy Retrieval	SWSH	2	$0.24	$0.48
Great Catcher	CEC	2	$0.78	$1.56
Ordinary Rod	SWSH	1	$0.73	$0.73
Escape Board	UPR	2	$0.20	$0.40
Viridian Forest	TEU	2	$0.20	$0.40
Water Energy		11		$0.00
Total		60		$255.07

Winning Decks rate in Japanese Leagues: 1.76%

Rotation Effect (Team Up to Sword & Shield cards in deck): 6.66%

• Rain Dance is back in the form of Frosmoth. The ability in the past has seen success for many years with Blastoise decks in the past. Only being able to attach to the bench could be a small issue but there will be ways around it
• History says this will be a successful archetype. Might not have the right attackers to make it a top tier deck at the moment but that will change.
• One of my reasons for that is that it hasn't seen much success in Japan yet. Do note that Japan doesn't have Energy Recycler which could feature in the deck.
• Does need certain combos to take big KOs. Needs big draws so the deck is likely to suffer from hand disruption style decks.

Snorlax V-Max (with Porygon-Z)

Snorlax V-Max
Rare Candy
Card	Set	Qty	Price	Total Cost
Snorlax V	SWSH	3	$2.99	$8.97
Snorlax V-Max	SWSH	3	$9.48	$28.44
Porygon	UNB	4	$0.23	$0.92
Porygon-Z	UNB	3	$0.25	$0.75
Oranguru	SWSH	1	$6.97	$6.97
Crammorant V	SWSH	1	$2.99	$2.99
Dedenne-GX	UNB	1	$33.89	$33.89
Galarian Zigzagoon	SWSH	1	$0.69	$0.69
Lillie	UPR	4	$0.20	$0.80
Cynthia	UPR	4	$0.46	$1.84
Marnie	SWSH	2	$6.47	$12.94
Rare Candy	SWSH	4	$0.24	$0.96
Quick Ball	SWSH	4	$2.48	$9.92
Hyper Potion	SWSH	3	$0.33	$0.99
Evolution Incense	SWSH	3	$0.98	$2.94
Pokemon Communication	TEU	2	$0.20	$0.40
Buff Padding	TEU	2	$0.30	$0.60
Great Catcher	CEC	2	$0.78	$1.56
Vitalilty Band	SWSH	1	$0.47	$0.47
Choatic Swell	CEC	1	$0.20	$0.20
Recycle Energy	UNM	4	$0.20	$0.80
Draw Energy	CEC	4	$0.20	$0.80
Triple Acceleration Energy	UNB	3	$0.20	$0.60
Total		60		$119.44

Winning Decks rate in Japanese Leagues: 1.65%

Rotation Effect (Team Up to Sword & Shield cards in deck): 13.33%

• Snorlax V-Max is an interesting new attack which could see play with a number of different energy accelerating partners (Welder, Malamar, Frosmoth, Porygon-Z, ADP-GX, Rillaboom)
• Buff Padding helps Snorlax V-Max to 370HP! That will always be very tempting to pull off for many players as it'll be difficult to take this monster down. 
• Hasn't seen much success in Japan apart from a few league wins. Not top tier but it'll be contend in the next few rungs
• Low damage output might be a problem. And it's still a 3-prize pokemon.

Oranguru Control

Oranguru Control
Celio's Network
Card	Set	Qty	Price	Total Cost
Oranguru	UPR	4	$0.48	$1.92
Minccino	SWSH	3	$0.25	$0.75
Cinccino	SWSH	3	$2.47	$7.41
Pidgey	TEU	2	$0.68	$1.36
Pidgeotto	TEU	2	$0.77	$1.54
Articuno-GX	CES	2	$5.99	$11.98
Ditto Prism	LOT	1	$8.82	$8.82
Snorunt	UNM	1	$0.20	$0.20
Froslass	UNM	1	$0.21	$0.21
Professor's Research	SWSH	4	$8.97	$35.88
Lt Surge's Strategy	UNB	2	$0.20	$0.40
Mars	UPR	2	$0.77	$1.54
Belleba & Brycen Man	CEC	2	$0.20	$0.40
Faba	LOT	1	$0.94	$0.94
Tate & Liza	CES	1	$0.20	$0.20
Quick Ball	SWSH	4	$2.48	$9.92
PokeGear 3.0	SWSH	4	$0.67	$2.68
Crushing Hammer	SWSH	3	$0.24	$0.72
Custom Catcher	LOT	3	$5.19	$15.57
Evoltion Incense	SWSH	2	$0.98	$1.96
Pal Pad	SWSH	2	$0.69	$1.38
Reset Stamp	UNM	2	$0.64	$1.28
Chip Chip Ice Axe	UNB	2	$0.20	$0.40
Ordinary Rod	SWSH	1	$0.73	$0.73
Champions Festival	PR	1		$0.00
Sky Pillar	CES	1	$0.29	$0.29
Recycle Energy	UNM	1	$0.20	$0.20
Water Energy		3		$0.00
Total		60		$108.68

Winning Decks rate in Japanese Leagues: 1.59%

Rotation Effect (Team Up to Sword & Shield cards in deck): 31.66% (Oranguru Rotated)

• Sadly control decks will still form part of the game and have often seen success in many various forms. Do expect new control/stall/mill types to come from this set
• Oranguru Control was one of the better anti-meta decks and should still be that way
• Control decks don't tend to see much success in Japan but it will overseas, especially in North America
• The new Turn 1 no supporter rule might hurt the deck more but it'll find some way to fix that. New cards like Oranguru and Marnie can help to negate the irritating Chip Chip Ice Axe lock.

Stonjourner V-Max (with Zygarde)

Stonjourner V-Max
Omnipoke
Card	Set	Qty	Price	Total Cost
Stonjourner V	SWSH	3	$4.47	$13.41
Stonjourner V-Max	SWSH	3	$7.97	$23.91
Zygarde	UNM	4	$0.20	$0.80
Jirachi	TEU	2	$27.99	$55.98
Dedenne-GX	UNB	2	$33.89	$67.78
Diance Prism	FLI	1	$3.59	$3.59
Phione	CEC	1	$0.38	$0.38
Marshadow & Machamp-GX	UNB	1	$3.99	$3.99
Professor's Research	SWSH	4	$8.97	$35.88
Marnie	SWSH	2	$6.47	$12.94
Mallow & Lana	CEC	2	$1.78	$3.56
Guzma & Hala	CEC	1	$0.41	$0.41
Cynthia & Caitlin	CEC	1	$3.27	$3.27
Quick Ball	SWSH	4	$2.48	$9.92
Pokemon Communication	TEU	3	$0.20	$0.60
Switch	SWSH	3	$0.24	$0.72
Great Catcher	CEC	2	$0.78	$1.56
Tag Call	CEC	2	$0.45	$0.90
Escape Board	UPR	2	$0.20	$0.40
Big Charm	SWSH	1	$0.74	$0.74
Karate Belt	UNM	1	$0.20	$0.20
Martial Arts Dojo	UNB	3	$0.20	$0.60
Fighting Energy		11		$0.00
Unit Energy FDY	FLI	1	$0.84	$0.84
Total		60		$242.38

Winning Decks rate in Japanese Leagues: 1.43%

Rotation Effect (Team Up to Sword & Shield cards in deck): 6.66%

• Possibly the best V-Max attacker in the game in it's early incarnation. Stonjourner VMax can only be one of the tankiest pokemon to deal with many healing options available and it's first attack in mind as well
• Could be a strong anti-meta call as Fighting type can counter the likes of PikaRom and Snorlax VMax and does have many ways to add damage with Dianice Prism, Fighting Dojo to name a few.
• Not much success but has recorded 6 league wins in Japan 
• Once again, a three prize-attack is not always a good thing. Being combo reliant isn't good as well with hand disruption around

Deck prices in comparison:

1.     Arceus & Dialga & Palkia-GX/Zacian-V           $352.97

2.     Turbo Reshiram & Charizard-GX                    $274.55

3.     Mewtwo & Mew-GX/Fire Toolbox                 $273.53

4.     Pikachu & Zekrom-GX                                     $271.64

5.     Zacian-V/Lucario & Melmetal-GX                   $257.97

6.     Lapras VMax/Frosmoth                                  $255.07

7.     Malamar/Mewtwo & Mew-GX                       $254.02

8.     Stonjourner VMax/Zygarde                            $242.38

9.     Morpeko-V/Dolls                                            $239.91

10.  Torkoal-V/Magcargo-GX                                 $167.31

11.  Blacephalon UNB/Jirachi                                $135.48

12.  Snorlax VMax/Porygon-Z                                $119.44

13.  Oranguru Control                                           $108.68

14.  Rowlet & Alolan Exeggutor-GX/Rillaboom     $107.22

15.  Galarian Obstagoon/Sableye-V                      $70.20

ADP continues to be the most expensive deck but since it's one of the best decks, it's expected to

be expensive. Two Welder decks are high up in the list but as it's not seen much love yet, I'd 

advise to stay away from those unless you are sure you can make them work. 

Malamar/Mewtwo & Mew-GX and Zacian-V with Lucario & Melmetal-GX might be the two 

best decks to pick up for newcomers with it's prices being a little better than the other Tier 1 

decks. Blacephalon UNB is not even in the top 10 but has potential to be one of the best decks at 

the moment, a decent budget deck for sure. Same can be said for the cheapest deck on the list, 

Galarian Obstagoon. It doesn't play Jirachi unlike Blacephalon but could be a great anti-meta call.

But I can't end it on just these 15 decks. The 16th most winningest deck in Japanese local leagues 

is a deck that is near and dear to my heart. Of course, it's Charizard from Team Up!

Charizard
pokecaminv
Card	Set	Qty	Price	Total Cost
Jirachi	TEU	4	$27.99	$111.96
Charmander	TEU	4	$0.20	$0.80
Charmeleon	TEU	1	$0.20	$0.20
Charizard	TEU	4	$2.64	$10.56
Ditto Prism	LOT	1	$8.82	$8.82
Heatran-GX	UNM	1	$2.98	$2.98
Zacian V	SWSH	2	$29.98	$59.96
Welder	UNB	4	$0.20	$0.80
Rosa	CEC	2	$5.90	$11.80
Marnie	SWSH	1	$6.47	$6.47
Rare Candy	SWSH	4	$0.24	$0.96
Quick Ball	SWSH	3	$2.48	$7.44
Great Ball	SWSH	3	$0.24	$0.72
Switch	SWSH	3	$0.24	$0.72
Fire Crystal	UNB	3	$0.20	$0.60
Escape Board	UPR	3	$0.20	$0.60
Ordinary Rod	SWSH	2	$0.73	$1.46
Evolution Incense	SWSH	1	$0.98	$0.98
Giant Bomb	UNM	1	$0.20	$0.20
Giant Hearth	UNM	2	$0.60	$1.20
Heat Factory Prism	LOT	1	$3.96	$3.96
Fire Energy		10		$0.00
Total		60		$233.19

• Charizard will continue to be a viable rouge option for those wanting to give Stage 2 decks a try. It's unlimited damage output is it's biggest selling point. It can take a clean KO on even VMax by Turn 2 if set up right
• The new no Turn 1 supporter mean it won't see much play sadly. This deck is heavily reliant on certain Supporters, be it Elm, Oak, Welder or even the new Prof's Research
• Quick Ball and Evolution Incense does make things easier to the deck to set up. Many decks in Japan have been running Zacian-V and some Inteleon line to set up too
• It's still a Stage 2 deck. Hand disruption will be the downfall of this deck
• Also, Japan doesn't have Energy Recycler legal and it's one of the most important cards in the deck. That is why I've had a hard time finding any decent list to share on here (still building my own at the meantime)

Charizard will still be my pet project but the no Turn 1 supporter rule does put me off. And with OCIC in mind (if I'm allowed to go due to the ongoing virus here in Singapore), I have been focusing mainly on decks that have had success in Japan. I honestly believe the format will revolve around Mew3/Maly, ADP/Zacian, PikaRom and Blacephalon UNB. 

I hope those of you who read this will have found this helpful in any way and thank you for reading and checking out my latest blog. And if you are going to the Oceania International Championships, see you there!