MTG, Pokemon, Yu-Gi-Oh, or Lorcana? Here's how to pick the right one for you.
Trading card games are one of the most rewarding hobbies out there - but picking the wrong one to start with can make the learning curve steeper than it needs to be. This guide cuts through the noise so you can find the game that fits your situation.
🌟 Disney Lorcana or ⚡ Pokemon
🌟 Disney Lorcana
🧙 Magic: The Gathering
⚡ Pokemon or 🐉 Yu-Gi-Oh!
🧙 Magic or 🐉 Yu-Gi-Oh!
🐉 Yu-Gi-Oh! (cheapest entry)
| Category | 🧙 MTG | ⚡ Pokemon | 🐉 Yu-Gi-Oh! | 🌟 Lorcana |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Complexity | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ |
| Starter Cost | ~$15-45 | ~$15 | ~$10 | ~$15 |
| Best Age | 13+ | 6+ | 7+ | 8+ |
| Player Base | 40M+ | Largest | Very large | Growing fast |
| Competitive Scene | Massive | Large | Large | Growing |
| Collector Appeal | High | Extreme | High | High |
| Free Digital Version | MTG Arena | TCG Live | Master Duel | No |
MTG is the deepest TCG ever made. If you want to play something you'll still be learning 5 years from now, this is it. The Commander format (4-player free-for-all) is incredibly social and one of the best gaming experiences in the hobby. Start with the Starter Kit ($15) or a Commander precon deck ($45).
Pro: Deepest strategy, largest organized play scene, Commander format is uniquely fun. Con: Most complex rules, widest card power gap between formats.
The best-selling TCG in history, and for good reason. Simple enough for a 6-year-old, with enough depth to keep adults engaged. The collector market is enormous - some cards sell for thousands. The Elite Trainer Box is the classic gift for Pokemon fans of any age.
Pro: Easiest to learn, massive player base, beloved IP, great gift. Con: Less strategic depth than MTG at high level, can be expensive for competitive play.
No resource system means every turn is immediately explosive. Starter Decks are the cheapest entry in any major TCG (~$10). If you grew up watching the anime, there's a nostalgia pull unlike any other game. Modern competitive Yu-Gi-Oh has extreme depth - arguably the most combo-heavy TCG available.
Pro: Cheapest to start, fastest gameplay, intense combos. Con: Modern competitive decks are very complex (and expensive), steep learning curve for current card pool.
The newest major TCG (2023) and the most accessible. Disney characters you already love, simpler rules than any competitor, and genuinely beautiful card art. The best family TCG available right now. Also a growing collector's market with stunning Enchanted rarity cards.
Pro: Easiest rules, family-friendly, beautiful Disney art, great for all ages. Con: Smallest player base of the four, no free digital version to practice on.