The arrival of the Space-Time Smackdown booster packs in *Pokemon TCG Pocket* is set to shake up the game's meta significantly. Unlike the smaller Mythical Island release, *Pokemon GO* players face a crucial choice between two types of packs: Dialga packs or Palkia packs. This decision will influence their strategy and collection in the game.
How To Tell Which Cards Are in the Dialga Pack vs. Palkia Pack
The Space-Time Smackdown set introduces two distinct booster packs, distinguishable by the artwork on the front: Dialga on one and Palkia on the other. Similar to the Genetic Apex set, the contents of each pack vary slightly. To find out what's inside, simply hover over the pack of your choice and click on "Offering Rates" at the bottom left of the booster pack selection screen. This will reveal a detailed list of the cards included and their pull rates.
Screenshot by The Escapist. With a total of 207 cards in the set, some are exclusive to specific packs. To make the most of your choice, focus on the pack exclusives that appeal to you the most.
Should You Focus on Opening Dialga Packs or Palkia Packs in Pokemon TCG Pocket?
Your decision on which packs to open with your Pack Hourglasses in *Pokemon TCG Pocket* hinges on your specific goals. If you're chasing a particular favorite Pokemon, prioritize the pack that includes it. Alternatively, if you're looking to dominate in battles, consider the meta and focus on packs with the strongest cards. Here are some key points to consider when choosing between Dialga and Palkia packs:
Dialga High-Priority Pack Exclusives
Image via The Pokemon Company. Dialga packs offer several crucial EX cards, including Dialga EX, Yanmega EX, Gallade EX, and Darkrai EX. If your strategy revolves around these powerful cards, focus on opening Dialga packs. Additionally, exclusive illustration rares and trainer cards like Dawn and Volkner are only available in these packs. Bidoof collectors will also find this pack appealing, as Bidoof is exclusive to Dialga packs.
Palkia High-Priority Pack Exclusives
Image via The Pokemon Company. For those interested in Palkia EX, the Palkia pack is the way to go. Although it contains fewer EX cards compared to Dialga, it includes Lickilicky EX, Weavile EX, and Mismagius EX. These might not be as hyped in PvP discussions, but they could lead to a more unique deck build. The Palkia pack also features exclusive supporter cards like Mars and Cynthia, which could be key to crafting a less conventional strategy.
Final Verdict – Which Packs to Pick
Dialga packs are likely to be the more competitive choice, boasting a higher number of powerful and sought-after EX cards. However, the Palkia packs offer intriguing supporter cards that could be the foundation of a less predictable strategy. Ultimately, your choice should start with the pack containing your most coveted cards. Once you've prioritized those, continue to accumulate Pack Hourglasses and Pack Points to round out your collection.
And that's how you decide whether to open the Dialga or Palkia packs first in *Pokemon TCG Pocket*.
*Pokemon TCG Pocket is available now on mobile devices.*
