This article provides an in-depth explanation of the “Snorlax ex and Greninja (2 Cyrus Build) Deck” deck recipe, building strategy, basic gameplay, and key card roles.
In addition to the reasons for including specific cards, it highlights situations where the deck excels, matchups to watch out for, and strategic tips.
We also rate the deck’s “ease of building,” “ease of use,” and “consistency” with ★ ratings to help you decide if it’s right for your playstyle.

Deck Recipe

Ease of Building a Deck

3.5

Ease of Use

3.5

Deck Consistency

3.5

Current Tier List [A3b]

Deck Evaluation

The Snorlax ex and Greninja ex combo that was popular during the A3 season. While the overall strategy remains mostly the same, the Snorlax ex‘s Ability and Leftovers item improve its durability, making it more reliable to fully set up Greninja and prepare Giratina ex.
With two copies of Cyrus, you can expect to have at least one in hand, allowing you to prepare for the endgame with confidence.

How to Play, Strategy & Gameplay

Basic Deck Rotation

The main idea is to use Snorlax ex as a wall while setting up your board. How you attach Energy depends on how well your opponent’s deck is running and the matchup. If you plan to attach Energy to a benched Snorlax, it’s best to retrieve the active one using Ilima. If you don’t have Snorlax ex in your hand on the first turn, you should lead with Froakie. Starting with Giratina ex in the Active Spot is generally considered a bad draw. The deck aims to raise two heavy hitters at the same time—Snorlax ex and Giratina ex.

First Turn Strategy & Ideal Setup

You can follow standard deck flow without issue. There’s no need to attach Leftovers on the first turn, but doing so can help protect against hand disruption.

Second Turn Strategy & Ideal Setup

If you’re facing a favorable matchup and can see Water Energy available, and Greninja looks like it’ll be able to attack next turn, it’s a valid option to send Froakie to the Active Spot early.

Key Playing Points to Always Keep in Mind

Since you ideally want Giratina ex on the first turn, if you have both Professor’s Research and a Poké Ball in hand, you should always play Professor’s Research first. Try to avoid using Pokémon Center Lady in the early game, as it’s most valuable when you need to wake up Snorlax. Cyrus is only a one-of in this build, and is best saved as a finisher.

Who Should Use This Deck

This deck is a great choice for players who enjoy using Greninja and Cyrus to pull in and Knock Out benched Pokémon.

Favorable Matchups

Unfavorable Matchups

Similar Deck Builds