The recent Triumphant Light expansion for the Pokemon Trading Card Game Pocket introduced the formidable Arceus EX, a powerful Legendary Pokemon.  However, players have already uncovered a surprising counter to this new threat: Sudowoodo.

While not the most imposing creature in the Pokemon TCG Pocket, Sudowoodo possesses a unique ability to take down Arceus EX in just two turns. The February 28th release of the Triumphant Light expansion, hot on the heels of its reveal during the Pokemon Presents 2025 showcase, brought a wave of new cards and strategies. This fourth major set distinguishes itself with a focus on Arceus, featuring both normal and EX versions within its 75 new cards.

Arceus EX boasts an impressive 140 HP and the devastating 'Ultimate Force' attack. This attack deals 70 base damage plus an additional 20 damage for each benched Pokemon the opponent controls, all for the cost of three energy of any type. Its colorless typing allows for flexible deck building, and the 'Fabled Luster' ability grants immunity to special conditions.  This makes Arceus EX a seemingly unstoppable force.

However, Reddit user Burkowitzz highlighted Sudowoodo's surprising effectiveness against this powerhouse. Under the right circumstances, Sudowoodo can potentially knock out Arceus EX before it even has a chance to attack.

The key to this strategy lies in Sudowoodo's 'Fighting Headbutt' attack. While dealing a modest 20 base damage for one energy, this attack gains a significant boost against EX Pokemon, dealing an extra 30 damage.  Furthermore, Arceus EX's weakness to Fighting-type attacks amplifies 'Fighting Headbutt's' damage output to a substantial 70. This represents half of Arceus EX's HP, potentially allowing Sudowoodo to secure a swift victory before Arceus EX can unleash its 'Ultimate Force'.

This counter strategy relies on specific conditions.  Sudowoodo must attack first, and the opponent must have Arceus EX in the active position.  Given the high energy cost of 'Ultimate Force,' most players would likely keep Arceus EX on the bench until ready to attack, making this scenario less common.  Additionally, Pokemon Tools and potions can disrupt the strategy.

Despite these limitations, Sudowoodo’s potential to quickly defeat a powerful card like Arceus EX presents an intriguing tactical option. With the highly anticipated release of ranked matches in Pokemon TCG Pocket at the end of March, this strategy could prove surprisingly effective in the right hands.