Even if we don't talk about it as regularly as we'd like, we at Hitek are big fans of collectible card games, also known as TCGs (for Trading Card Games). A real boon in schoolyards, these are often games with complex and stimulating rules that continue to satisfy many adult players. A look back at the best collectible card games!
#8 Digimon
Developed by Bandai and launched in 2020, the Digimon TCG is inspired by the famous franchise of the same name. In addition to satisfying players most nostalgic for the late 1990s and early 2000s, the game combines simplicity of rules with tactical depth, relying on a "digivolution" mechanic - which allows Digimon to evolve depending on strategic resources - and a memory gauge that allows for the regulation of actions. The freshness of the metagame is reinforced by regular updates. However, despite the very careful design of its cards, the popularity of the Digimon TCG is no match for the giants of the sector, and the size of its community remains unfortunately small in comparison. Moreover, some fans criticize the lack of balance between the cards, which favors aggressive strategies.
#7 One Piece Card Game
Launched in 2022 to mark the manga's twenty-fifth anniversary, One Piece Card Game is the result of a collaboration between Bandai Namco and publisher Shueisha. The game, which captures through its illustrations the essence of the rich and colorful universe developed since 1997 by the illustrious mangaka Eiichirō Oda, is based on strategic gameplay centered on Leader Cards and is highly accessible. The diversity and consistency of the sets help maintain the interest of players and collectors, and some cards cost a fortune. However, the game can be criticized for some bans on leader cards like the OP10-022 Trafalgar Law card, whose ability allowed for overly aggressive strategies that disrupted the balance of the metagame. While these bans are certainly necessary, they reflect poor upstream management on the part of Bandai Namco.
#6 Yu-Gi-Oh!
Inspired by the eponymous manga written and drawn by Kazuki Takahashi, Yu-Gi-Oh! was launched in 1999 by Konami. While its global popularity initially stemmed from its connection to a beloved manga and anime, its fanbase has been built on its gameplay, which is both very accessible for beginners and offers tactical depth thanks to the wide variety of effects offered by the cards, capable of satisfying both the most experienced players and competitive enthusiasts. It should be noted, however, that the rapid pace of new expansions can make the game expensive and more difficult to follow for casual players.
#5 Star Wars: Unlimited
Designed by Fantasy Flight Games - a subsidiary of Asmodee -, Star Wars: Unlimited was launched in March 2024, to the delight of fans of George Lucas's galaxy far, far away. Like the Disney Lorcana games, the creation of a Star Wars TCG is a great opportunity for players to dive into a game set in one of the most renowned fictional universes in history. Especially since its dual-arena (ground and space) gameplay system adds tactical depth that forces players to balance their forces between the two fronts. The brand-new artwork captures the essence of the Star Wars universe, spanning the films, TV shows, comics, and video games. However, despite all this great promise, Star Wars: Unlimited must prove itself in a very competitive market dominated by Pokémon TCG, Magic: The Gathering, and Disney Lorcana. Let's add that the fiasco of Star Wars: Destiny (also published by Fantasy Flight Games until its cancellation in 2020) is a sad memory and may make us doubt the sustainability of this ambitious new TCG...
#4 Disney Lorcana
Since its launch in 2023 by Ravensburger, Disney Lorcana has quickly established itself as one of the great references in TCGs. While a collectible card game rooted in the magical world of Disney is obviously appealing in itself, Disney Lorcana draws its greatest strength from the great accessibility of its game system and its universal appeal, since the game is accessible from the age of 8. But make no mistake! Adults can also be seduced by the proposition; Moreover, the fan community includes many children of the 1980s and 1990s. With the ambition of competing with Pokémon and Magic: The Gathering, Disney and Ravensburger have already announced a plan for at least ten years. The thousand unique cards available to date (with eight levels of rarity) are enriched by new chapters that are released at regular intervals. We also know since D23 2024 that the Pixar universe will soon join Disney Lorcana. Fans are dying to hear it!
#3 Flesh and Blood
Created by the independent New Zealand studio Legend Story Studios, Flesh and Blood kicked the TCG anthill into overdrive when it was released in 2019, after seven years of development. Flesh and Blood features an innovative gameplay system based on the incarnation of a single hero per game and per player, which significantly increases immersion. The TCG focuses on tactical combat in a medieval-fantasy universe, where every decision counts and luck has (almost) no place. The quality of Flesh and Blood's artwork and its ultra-dynamic competitive scene, with worldwide tournaments attracting both hardcore competitors and casual players, make this game created by fans for fans a must-have TCG.
#2 Magic: The Gathering
Created by Richard Garfield in 1993, Magic: The Gathering is the first TCG in history. With more than 36,000 unique cards, the game stands out for the beauty of its artwork, some of which are true works of art inspired primarily by fantasy. Its mana and color system (five in total) brings great strategic richness to games, whether friendly or competitive. The fan community of Magic: The Gathering is very large, and includes tens of millions of players charmed by both its breathtaking lore and its gameplay. The game owned by Wizards of the Coast has been able to renew its fanbase over the years thanks to special Commander decks, paying homage to major licenses of popular culture, from Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien to Warhammer 40K, including Fallout (even if some of them have caused controversy).
#1 Pokémon Trading Card Game
Launched in 1996, Pokémon TCG is the behemoth of trading card games. Boosted by the Pokémon anime and video games, its popularity allows it to dominate global sales. The game cleverly combines nostalgia, simplicity, and strategy, Pokémon TCG is based on evolution, energy, and Trainer card mechanics that offer a particularly attractive balance between ease of learning the rules and tactical depth. With 13,178 unique cards, the Pokémon card game is a paradise for collectors, who are willing to spend a fortune to obtain certain rare cards. While Pokémon TCG will celebrate its thirtieth anniversary next year, it remains a safe bet.
Did this article interest you? So don't hesitate to discover these 15 toys from our childhood that are worth a fortune today.
0 Comments