Highly underrated card. It frustrates me to no end at the fact that people give this card such an undeserving score because it is a"Stage 2" , but lets look at the true potential and the draw backs of this card.
First the HP is at an exceptional amount. 130 is too little for the current format, so they put him right out of consistent OHKO range.
His ability is fantastic, having an attacker with a built in draw is just something to can't bypass, and the cost for drawing isn't devastating. The attack is the main draw to this card. A one water energy attack to potentially do 120 max damage. This card has been considered the new Jumpluff on steroids, and that is a staying true to that statement. You can fit this card or build around it in any way you like, whether it be for the draw or attack, it can be placed easily.
Now let's focus on the draw backs of Empoleon. First, yes, it is a stage 2 which is scarce in this current rush basic format and lots of players have a hard time building up consistent attackers which are stage 2. The retreat is my big draw back for this card, it has an odd two retreat cost which to me should have been 3 or 4 so it could use the heavy ball engine, so you are going to have to resort to ultra ball or Pokemon communication to pull him from your deck. Finally the weakness is a crushing blow to him, it just stinks that he has to have the weakness of the most played type in the format so OHKO's on Empoleon are going to be constant against electric based decks.
Personal Opinion:
I believe that people need to stop being so afraid of the stage 2 builds. The new set has given a good amount of hope to evolutions and they have been proving to be devastating with proper builds. I also think that the next set coming out which is "Dragon Rush" will have more playable evolutions. Players Just need to take the time to realize how much potential Evolutions are going to have in time, and it can start right here. I believe we are going to see good amount of Empoleon builds in the large tournaments like Nationals and Worlds.
Empoleon Pros:
Great HP
Versatile
Draw Power
Low Energy Cost attack
Empoleon Cons:
Stage 2
Retreat Cost
Weakeness
Overall Score: 8.5/10
He needs back up, so pair him with something that covers weakness or that compliments his build.
