NEXUS

Executive Summary

The /Assault Mode archetype is a high-risk, high-reward strategy built around the trap card Assault Mode Activate. By tributing a Synchro Monster, it summons a more powerful "/Assault Mode" version from the Deck. The deck's modern viability hinges on the support engine released in 2019, which transformed a once-inconsistent strategy into a cohesive, one-card combo deck. The archetype's history is a testament to its explosive potential and the delicate balance that defines its character.

Core Components: The Assault Engine

The Engine

Psi-Reflector

The definitive one-card starter. It searches for Assault Mode Activate and enables the entire Synchro Summoning sequence.

Assault Beast

A consistency tool that can be discarded to search for Assault Mode Activate, providing a path to the combo without a Normal Summon.

Assault Sentinel

An extender that can Tribute itself to Special Summon a key monster like Psi-Reflector from the Deck.

The Vanguard

Stardust Dragon /Assault Mode

The premier boss monster. Its omni-negate and self-revival make it a persistent and powerful threat.

Red Dragon Archfiend /Assault Mode

A high-ATK monster that can wipe the entire field of monsters after it attacks, though this affects your own monsters as well.

Assault Mode Activate

The key Trap card that Tributes a Synchro Monster to summon its "/Assault Mode" counterpart from the Deck.

Core Combo: The Psi-Reflector Loop

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This walkthrough demonstrates the primary one-card combo that summons the deck's main boss monster.

Psi-Reflector
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1

Summon Psi-Reflector & Search

Normal Summon Psi-Reflector and use its effect to search for Assault Beast.

Assault Beast
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2

Discard Beast & Revive

Discard Assault Beast to search Assault Mode Activate. Then, use Psi-Reflector's second effect to revive Assault Beast.

Stardust Dragon
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3

Synchro & Activate

Increase Assault Beast's level, then Synchro Summon Stardust Dragon. Finally, use Assault Mode Activate to bring out the boss monster.

Endboard Analysis: The Final Assault

The Core Endboard: Stardust's Reign

Stardust Dragon/Assault Mode
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The primary goal of a pure build is to consistently summon the archetype's definitive boss monster.

  • Omni-Negate: Stardust Dragon/Assault Mode provides a powerful omni-negate that can disrupt any card or effect.
  • Self-Revival: It can revive itself from the Graveyard during the End Phase, creating a persistent and difficult-to-remove threat.

The Hybrid Endboard: Layered Threats

Psychic End Punisher
Missing: 60465049

By incorporating external engines like P.U.N.K., the deck can build a more complex and resilient board.

  • Multiple Bosses: The board can feature Stardust Dragon/Assault Mode alongside another powerful Synchro monster like Psychic End Punisher.
  • Increased Durability: Having multiple high-impact monsters makes the endboard less fragile and harder for the opponent to dismantle with a single card.

Competitive Analysis

Strengths

  • Consistent Combo: The Psi-Reflector engine provides a reliable one-card path to the main boss monster.
  • High Power Ceiling: Stardust Dragon/Assault Mode is a formidable threat that can single-handedly control a duel.

Weaknesses

  • Fragile & Linear: The combo is very susceptible to hand traps like Ash Blossom, which can end the turn immediately.
  • "Bricky" Hands: Can be prone to drawing the un-summonable "/Assault Mode" monsters or too many combo protection cards.

Hybrid Engines

  • P.U.N.K. Engine: Provides an alternative Synchro-summoning path and access to other powerful boss monsters.
  • Resonator Engine: A classic engine that enables spamming multiple Synchro monsters.

Banlist Impact

Fully Unrestricted

As of the current TCG format, the Assault Mode archetype is entirely unrestricted, allowing it to operate at full capacity.

Maximum Consistency

Play any card at your preferred ratio without restrictions

Full Strength Plays

Access to all archetype synergies without limitations

Strategic Freedom

No banlist constraints holding back your strategy

Banlist Status Summary

+ analyzed • 0 restrictions found • All cards legal at 3 copies