Shikamaru Nara (N-138) and Rock Lee (N-139) are sequential cards, and might be thought of as a shinobi combo. Of course, they aren’t a combo in the most literal sense, but the two cards compliment each other. Even though Shikamaru is considered to be rare, both of these cards are from the Revenge and Rebirth set and are relatively common. Therefore, they could probably be had rather easily as part of a good trade.
Shikamaru’s “IQ of 200 or Higher” ability is particularly suited for his character. After discarding two cards from one’s hand, Shikamaru’s team engages in a mind battle with the opposition. While many players have criticized this aspect of Nara, giving up two cards to maintain field control really isn’t that bad of a sacrifice. Just because a card is old doesn’t make it automatically inferior.
Rock Lee, who interestingly looks to be wearing a bed robe, is put into injured status while another card is drawn. This can sometimes make up for the fact that two cards were lost with the previous Shikamaru attack. Though it’s not always advisable to do, the pair can certainly work together as part of an impromptu to save face and field position in several scenarios.
Of course, these tactics won’t work all the time. When working with cards that have been around a long time, it’s best to evaluate your opposition. Then again, some people may have forgotten about certain tactics, and therefore might be susceptible to them. Also, be on the look out for cards that may interface well with the cards of today.
While both Nara and Lee were from the same set in this example, one could very well pair modern and antiquated cards together in combos that haven’t yet been employed. Make sure, though, not to confine the idea of combo only to true combos. Some ninja work well alongside others, for instance.
