Since their inception in the early 90’s, collectible trading cards and the games we play with them have created a unique space for us to enjoy the fantasy worlds we love. Keep reading to learn more about five of the most popular trading card games of all time!
Magic: The Gathering
Started by Wizards of the Coast in 1993, Magic: The Gathering is widely considered to be the game that kicked off the evolution of collectible trading card games. Funnily enough, it originated as a means to keep people busy while they were waiting in line for gaming conventions—however, it itself was heavily inspired by the imagination-based element of Dungeons and Dragons. Since its creation, Magic has paved the way as a blueprint for several other similarly styled games. Its popularity has only grown over the years with weekly tournaments often being held at local book and games stores all across the globe.
Pokémon Trading Card Game
In the late 90’s, Pokémon took the world by storm—not only were the video games and animated series popular, but by 2003 the trading card game had capitalized on the franchise’s success and found itself established among the likes of Magic and other popular collectible card games. With such a large roster of lovable and recognizable creatures, paired with countless strategies and ways to play, each game is exciting and fresh. Not to mention—the artwork of some of the holographic cards is simply gorgeous!
Yu-Gi-Oh!
Another card game that drew inspiration from a popular animated series, Yu-Gi-Oh! was actually named the top card game in the world by Guinness World Records in 2009. Similar to Pokémon, players use a vast roster of creatures and abilities to battle each other, with constant rule changes, meta shifts, and new additions being implemented to this date.
World of Warcraft Trading Card Game
If you recognize World of Warcraft as the name of a PC game, you aren’t mistaken—released in 2004, the game has long been considered the “king of MMORPG’s.” When the trading card game was introduced to the world in 2006, it was immediately popular throughout its limited run (the cards became out-of-print in 2013 before Blizzard’s release of Hearthstone). With cherished characters, favorite items, and iconic abilities pulled straight out of the popular game, as well as the potential to receive in-game rewards, the World of Warcraft Trading Card Game is remembered fondly.
Hearthstone
Who said that card games couldn’t be digital? Released by Blizzard Entertainment in 2014, there’s no doubt Hearthstone’s popularity wasn’t fueled in part by the titanic presence that Blizzard had in the gaming industry at the time. That said, the game itself was still a massive initial success and has remained one of the most popular and widely played card games to this date. The Hearthstone World Championship features players from all over the world who compete for titles and recognition; but for more casual players, it’s accessible on PC and mobile devices and quite easy to get the hang of!
About Bricks & Boards +
Bricks & Boards + is proud to offer a wide variety of board games, trading cards, Lego® and more to the Dawsonville community. They also house a 1,500sq ft. gaming space for events and activities including trading card games tournaments. Feel free to learn more about the shop and collection by visiting online or giving them a call at (706) 203-1378.
