Event Expanded: Ariados vs Laser

[bbninjas]

So, which one is better? Ariados or Laser? Remember this is for Expanded. Here are my pros and cons:

Ariados
Pros
- Perhaps more consistent
- Virtually always available
- Easier to search - Ultra Balls, Fan Clubs, Level Balls, Skyla to said items, etc

Cons
- Poisons the active [although Sparkling Robe exists]
- Can't poison [G] types [although most [G] decks would run Virizion in the first place].
- Requires a 2-2 / 3-3 line for consistency
- Needs bench space
- Ability blockable
- Can be difficult to dispose of [to Shaymin etc]
- Lacks element of surprise

Spoiler: text

Ariados – Grass – HP70
Stage 1 – Evolves from Spinarak

Ability: Poison Nest
Once during your turn (before your attack), you may use this Ability. Both Active Pokemon are now Poisoned. (Excluding [G] Pokemon.)

[G][C] Corner: 30 damage. Your opponent’s Active Pokemon can’t retreat during your opponent’s next turn.

Weakness: Fire (x2)
Resistance: none
Retreat: 1

Hypnotoxic Laser
Pros
- More of a surprise
- Sleep flip possibility
- More versatile
- Searchable by Skyla and Shadow Triad

Cons
- Is item lockable
- Only usable ~4 times

 

[TheStrictNein]

Laser is much more splash-able.

Outside of Grass decks and Machamp AOR, you don't want to be poisoning your own Pokemon for 30 damage a turn.

Also, you're not gonna be wasting a card slot or two for some Sparkling Robes.

Ariados is a great thin line in XY-on Grass decks to provide some supplimentary damage. Things like ensuring 2HKOs with Jagged Saber on some Megas.

Any other deck that doesn't use Vileplume? Laser is the way to go.