Best Trading Card Games of 2025

Jimmy Roof Avatar
Jimmy Roof
Last Updated: Jan 16, 2025

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Trading Card Games are a popular form of entertainment among both children and adults. These games typically involve collecting and trading cards featuring various characters, creatures, or objects. Players use their decks of cards to battle against each other, with the goal of defeating their opponent's deck. Some popular Trading Card Games include Magic: The Gathering, Yu-Gi-Oh!, and Pokémon. These games not only provide hours of entertainment, but also encourage strategic thinking and social interaction. With new cards and expansions being released regularly, Trading Card Games continue to be a beloved pastime for many.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Pokemon Charizard ex Collection Cover #TOP 1
Pokemon Charizard ex Collection
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Pokemon TCG Battle Academy 2024 Cover #TOP 2
Pokemon TCG Battle Academy 2024
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Pokémon Mega Collector's Kit Cover #TOP 3
Pokémon Mega Collector's Kit
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Trading Card Games

#TOP 1

Pokemon Charizard ex Collection

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Pokemon Charizard ex Collection Cover
Pokemon TCG Charizard ex Super Premium Collection

The Pokemon Charizard ex offers an exciting collection for fans and collectors alike. You will receive a stunning foil promo card of Charizard ex, along with two additional foil cards featuring Charmander and Charmeleon. The collection also includes a display figure of Charizard, making it a great decorative piece for your collection. Plus, you’ll get ten booster packs to expand your card collection and enhance your gameplay. Finally, a code card for Pokémon TCG Live is included, allowing you to enjoy online play. This collection is perfect for anyone looking to dive deeper into the Pokémon trading card game.

What We Like
Great value for collectors
High-quality cards and figure
Exciting variety of booster packs
Perfect gift for Pokémon fans
Fast delivery from Amazon
What We Don't Like
Box may arrive damaged
Not all boxes guarantee hits
#TOP 2

Pokemon TCG Battle Academy 2024

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Pokemon TCG Battle Academy 2024 Cover
POKEMON TCG: Battle Academy 2024

The Pokemon Battle Academy offers a fantastic introduction to the Pokémon Trading Card Game with three complete decks, each containing 60 cards. You’ll find a special Pokémon in each deck, such as Armarouge ex, Pikachu ex, or Darkrai ex, which enhances your gameplay experience. Additionally, the set includes new promo cards that add variety and excitement to your collection. To help you get started, there’s an instruction sheet and two tutorial guides that will walk you through the decks, making it easy for beginners to learn how to play.

What We Like
User-friendly layout
Great for beginners
High-quality cards
Engaging artwork
Comprehensive guide
What We Don't Like
Damage counters could be sturdier
Box size may be large
#TOP 3

Pokémon Mega Collector's Kit

Pokémon Mega Collector's Kit Cover
Pokémon Mega Collector's Kit: 100 Total Pokémon Cards | 5 Packs + 50 Cards (Includes 1 Holo-Foil Card) + Mini-Binder

The Pokémon Collector's Kit is a fantastic way to boost your card collection with a total of 100 Pokémon cards. It includes 5 packs, featuring 3 Mystery Blisters that offer a surprise selection of cards, making each unboxing thrilling and unpredictable. You'll also receive 2 Trick or Trade packs, which introduce ghostly Pokémon and exciting new gameplay elements. Plus, this kit comes with a special Holo-Foil card that adds a unique touch to your set. With a Cardguard Mini Binder included, you can easily organize and protect your cards, ensuring they stay in excellent condition as you showcase your favorites.

What We Like
Great value for collectors
Exciting mix of cards
Secure packaging and delivery
Fun for gift giving
Quality and variety of cards
What We Don't Like
Some cards may be damaged
Random nature of packs
#TOP 4

Pokémon TCG: November 2024 Collector Chest

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Pokémon TCG: November 2024 Collector Chest Cover
Pokémon TCG: NOV 2024 Collectors Chest

The Pokémon Collector Chest is an exciting package for fans of the Trading Card Game. It includes six booster packs, which allow you to expand your card collection and enhance your gameplay. You’ll also find three special foil cards featuring popular characters like Pikachu, Dipplin, and Teal Mask Ogerpon, adding value to your collection. A unique Pokémon coin featuring Terapagos is included, perfect for gameplay or display. Plus, the set comes with four colorful sticker sheets and a mini portfolio to help you organize and protect your favorite cards.

What We Like
Early delivery
Well-packaged
Good condition
Nice metal box
Successful pulls
What We Don't Like
Some damaged items
Mixed card quality
#TOP 5

Pokemon TCG Paldea Adventure Chest

290-85608
Multi
Pokemon TCG Paldea Adventure Chest Cover
Pokemon TCG: PALDEA Adventure Chest

The Pokemon Paldea Adventure Chest is a fantastic addition for any Pokémon card enthusiast. It features seven exclusive foil promo cards, including favorites like Pikachu and Sprigatito ex, perfect for enhancing your collection. You’ll also find a sheet of fun tech stickers, allowing you to personalize your gear. The mini portfolio is ideal for organizing your cards, while the squishy toy Pikachu adds a playful touch to your setup. Additionally, you receive six booster packs and a code card for Pokémon TCG Live, giving you more opportunities to expand your gameplay.

What We Like
Great variety of cards
Sturdy and organized chest
Bonus items included
Fun experience for kids
Excellent gift option
What We Don't Like
Flimsy interior cardboard
Limited card pulls
#TOP 6

Pokemon Scarlet & Violet Elite Trainer Box

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Pokemon Scarlet & Violet Elite Trainer Box Cover
Pokemon TCG: Scarlet & Violet Stellar Crown Elite Trainer Box

The Pokemon Elite Trainer Box is a fantastic addition for any Pokémon Trading Card Game enthusiast. It includes nine booster packs from the Scarlet & Violet—Stellar Crown series, giving you a variety of new cards to enhance your collection. You’ll also receive a full-art foil promo card of Noctowl, which adds a unique touch to your deck. Additionally, the set features 65 card sleeves adorned with Stellar Form Terapagos, protecting your cards while showcasing your style. With 45 Energy cards included, you’ll have the essential resources needed to build and customize your decks for gameplay.

What We Like
Sealed and intact packaging
Good variety of hits
Great for starting collection
High-quality components included
Positive first-time experience
What We Don't Like
Mediocre pull rates
Some cards feel cheap
#TOP 7

Ravensburger Disney Lorcana Sapphire & Steel Starter Deck

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Ravensburger Disney Lorcana Sapphire & Steel Starter Deck Cover
Ravensburger Disney Lorcana TCG: The First Chapter - Sapphire & Steel Single-Player Starter Deck | Engaging Gameplay | Over 200 Original Disney Artworks | Ideal for Ages 8+

The Ravensburger Disney Lorcana Deck invites you into a magical journey filled with over 200 original Disney artworks. You’ll find the gameplay easy to grasp, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced players alike. As you explore, you'll have the chance to build your own powerful deck, allowing you to collect and trade cards with fellow Disney fans. The high-quality components, including 60 cards and various game accessories, ensure a smooth and enjoyable gaming experience, enhancing your adventures in the world of Lorcana.

What We Like
Fun to collect
Easy to learn
Good for learning
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
Damaged box
Unsealed packaging
#TOP 8

POKEMON Scarlet & Violet 3 Obsidian Flames Elite Trainer Box

186-85391
Multi
POKEMON Scarlet & Violet 3 Obsidian Flames Elite Trainer Box Cover
Pokemon Scarlet & Violet 3 Obsidian Flames Elite Trainer Box

The POKEMON Obsidian Flames Trainer Box is a comprehensive set that includes 9 booster packs from the Scarlet & Violet—Obsidian Flames series. It also features a full-art foil promo card showcasing Charmander. With 65 card sleeves adorned with Charmander, a player's guide, and 45 Energy cards, this box ensures your cards are protected and organized. Additionally, it provides 6 damage-counter dice, a coin-flip die, plastic condition markers, and a collector's box with dividers. Moreover, you'll receive a code card for the Pokémon Trading Card Game Live, enhancing your gameplay experience.

What We Like
Exclusive obsidian-themed cards
High-quality accessories included
Variety of booster packs
Visually appealing design
Comprehensive player's guide
What We Don't Like
Concerns about online purchase

Star Wars: Unlimited Spark of Rebellion Starter Set

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Star Wars: Unlimited Spark of Rebellion Starter Set Cover
Star Wars: Unlimited TCG Spark of Rebellion Two-Player Starter Set - Learn, Battle, Collect! Trading Card Game for Kids and Adults, Ages 12+, 2 Players, 20 Min Playtime, Made by Fantasy Flight Games

With the Star Wars Starter Set, you can dive into the exciting universe of Star Wars: Unlimited. This set includes two pre-assembled decks, letting you jump straight into action with iconic characters like Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader. You'll also find ten exclusive collectible cards that can’t be found in booster packs, making it a must-have for collectors. Additionally, the complete starter kit comes with essential tokens, poster playmats, and deckboxes, providing everything you need to start playing right away. This setup is perfect for both new players and seasoned fans eager for a quick duel.

What We Like
Great introductory set
High nostalgia factor
Easy to learn
Good artwork
Effective starter decks
What We Don't Like
Thin cardboard tokens
Box not durable for storage
#TOP 10

Ravensburger Disney Lorcana Ursula's Return Starter Deck

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Ravensburger Disney Lorcana Ursula's Return Starter Deck Cover
Ravensburger Disney Lorcana TCG: Ursula's Return - Amber & Amethyst Single-Player Starter Deck | Engaging Gameplay | Over 200 Original Disney Artworks | Ideal for Ages 8+

The Ravensburger Disney Lorcana Deck invites you to explore a magical trading card game world filled with your favorite Disney characters. You'll enjoy easy-to-learn gameplay that welcomes both casual players and newcomers, while also offering enough strategy for competitive play. With over 200 stunning original artworks, you'll be captivated by the beauty of each card. As you collect and trade, you can challenge friends and other Disney fans, making every game an exciting adventure.

What We Like
Beautiful artwork
Well-balanced gameplay
Great for beginners
High-quality cards
Good value for money
What We Don't Like
Somewhat hard for beginners
Buying Guide Image

Learn More About Purchasing the Trading Card Games

Introduction

If you're a fan of strategy games and collectibles, trading card games (TCGs) might be the perfect hobby for you. With so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to choose which game to get into. But fear not, as we have some tips on how to choose the right TCG for you.

Consider Your Interests

First and foremost, it's important to consider your interests when choosing a TCG. Are you a fan of fantasy or sci-fi? Do you prefer historical or modern themes? Each TCG will have its own unique setting and themes, so consider what you enjoy in other media and see if any TCGs match those interests.

Research the Mechanics

Once you have an idea of what themes you're interested in, it's time to delve into the mechanics of each game. Every TCG has its own set of rules and gameplay mechanics, so it's important to research and understand how each game plays before investing in it. Some TCGs have more complex rules and mechanics, while others are more streamlined and easier to learn. Consider your own level of experience with strategy games and how much time you're willing to invest in learning a new game before making a decision.

Check Out the Community

Another important factor to consider is the community surrounding a TCG. Are there active forums or social media groups where you can discuss strategies and trade cards with other players? Is the community welcoming and friendly, or is it more competitive and cutthroat? A positive and supportive community can make a huge difference in your enjoyment of the game.

Examine the Rarity and Availability of Cards

When it comes to collectible games, the rarity and availability of cards can play a big role in your enjoyment. Some TCGs have a higher rarity for their cards, which can make it harder (and more expensive) to complete a set. On the other hand, some TCGs have a lower rarity for their cards, making it easier (and cheaper) to collect them all. Consider your budget and how much you're willing to spend on cards before deciding on a TCG.

Look Into Organized Play

If you're interested in competing in tournaments or other organized events, it's worth checking out the options available for each TCG. Some games have a more developed organized play scene, with local stores hosting tournaments and even larger events with cash prizes. Others may have a smaller organized play scene, or none at all. Consider whether or not you're interested in competing in organized events before choosing a TCG.

Conclusion

Choosing a TCG can be a daunting task, but by considering your interests, researching the mechanics, checking out the community, examining the rarity and availability of cards, and looking into organized play, you can find the perfect game for you. Don't be afraid to try out a few different TCGs before committing to one, as it can take some trial and error to find the one that clicks with you. Happy gaming!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Magic: The Gathering is currently the most popular trading card game. It has a massive following and a competitive scene, with players from around the world participating in tournaments for big prizes.

2. What is the new trading card game?

Disney's Lorcana is a new trading card game set to release in Fall 2023. Developed in collaboration with Ravensburger, a veteran board game publisher, it aims to rival popular TCGs like Magic: The Gathering and the Pokémon Trading Card Game.

3. What are trading card games called?

Trading card games are also known as collectible card games (CCGs) or TCGs (trading card games). They combine strategic deck building elements with features of trading cards. The concept was introduced with Magic: The Gathering in 1993.

4. Are trading card games luck or skill?

Trading card games involve a mix of luck and skill. While some games like 'War' are purely luck-based, most trading card games require strategic decision-making and skillful play to succeed.

5. What is the oldest trading card game?

The oldest trading card game dates back to 1904. Called 'The Base Ball Card Game', it was published by the Allegheny Card Co of Allegheny, PA and Detroit, MI, USA. The game included 104 player cards and eight team 'ball counter' cards.

6. What trading cards are hot now?

Currently, some of the hottest trading cards include Davis Schneider 2021 Bowman autos, Shohei Ohtani RCs, and Jackson Chourio 2022 Bowman Chrome PSA 10s. However, the sports card market is highly dynamic, and the popularity of specific cards can change rapidly.

7. Can you fortune tell with playing cards?

Yes, fortune-telling or divination using a deck of playing cards is known as cartomancy. This practice has been around since the 14th century, soon after playing cards were introduced into Europe.

8. Is collecting trading cards a hobby?

Collecting trading cards, especially sports cards, can be a popular hobby. It provides enjoyment and can also be a profitable investment. The value of individual cards depends on factors like rarity and condition, with some rare cards fetching thousands of dollars.

Editor's Notes

During our trading card game research, we found 24 trading card game products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 105,043 customer reviews through our big data system to write the trading card games list. We found that most customers choose trading card games with an average price of $41.93.

The trading card games are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of trading card games, including Pokemon, Ravensburger, Fantasy Flight Games. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Jimmy Roof Avatar

Jimmy Roof is a toy designer who lives in Chicago with his family. He works in a big toy firm, so he is surrounded by toys every day. Throughout his career, he has developed expertise in children's toys, baby products and preschool education. Jimmy Roof often publishes articles related to toys on key websites.

Trading Card Games Comparison Table

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Brand Pokemon Pokemon Pokemon Pokemon Pokemon Pokemon Ravensburger Pokemon Fantasy Flight Games Ravensburger
Item Weight - 1 ounces - 1.17 pounds 1 ounces 1.5 pounds - - 12.7 ounces 6.7 ounces
Manufacturer recommended age - 8 years and up - 8 years and up 6 years and up 6 years and up - - 12 years and up 8 years and up
Release date - June 21, 2024 - November 14, 2024 May 29, 2024 September 12, 2024 - - March 8, 2024 May 31, 2024
Language - English - English English English - - English -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.7
Where to Buy