Persistent Constrictor is a good enabler for Valgavoth decks, sure, but its also a great pickup for Hapatra and other -1/-1 counters decks
Abyss Eye costs three Darkness Energy and Knocks Out the opponent's Active Pokemon outright if it is affected by any Special Condition, which pairs with Special-Condition support to force removal
For a beginner building a first collection, starting with cards that hold their condition means better long-term value
Despite this, I think the deck is in a better position going into this format, since it actually has a great matchup against both Mega Lucario and Alakazam
With only 1 colorless energy, Minior does 20 damage for each C of your opponents active pokemon retreat cost
Selection Sealed product only, basically