The world of trading card games, also known as TCGs, is vast and ever-changing. From unique IPs to licensed tie-ins, there are a ton of great games on the market today. While many of these are still played with paper cards at in-person tournaments, plenty of games have also introduced a digital alternative. Some games even go as far as to have unique mechanics specifically designed for the digital environment.
The easiest way to get into a new TCG is to have a friend share their hobby. However, plenty of great TCGs make it easy for new players to jump right in and start playing, even if they don't have any experience with the genre. Digital versions help with this as well, since new players can try all kinds of new games from the comfort of their own home.
Updated November 15, 2022 by Declan Lowthian: While the field is dominated by some giants, there are a ton of interesting trading card games just waiting to be discovered by new players. We've updated this list with some extra information about the best card games available today.
11 Digimon TCG
No official online version, several fan-run services
The latest attempt at a Digimon-themed card game the Digimon TCG launched in 2020 and has seen an explosion of players in the years since its release. It also features regular updates, which helps keep things fresh.
The cards in the Digimon TCG are divided into four types; Digimon, Digi-Eggs, Tamers, and Options. These are also divided into seven colors; Red, Blue, Yellow, Green, Purple, Black, and White, as well as recently introduced dual-color cards. Fans of the franchise and new players alike can enjoy the game together across several different playstyles.
10 Yu-Gi-Oh!
Two digital versions, Master Duel and Duel Links
One of the longest ongoing TCG franchises, Yu-Gi-Oh! started as an anime-based game but quickly outgrew the bounds of the show. There are three overall types of cards: Monsters, Spells, and Traps, but these are all broken down into various sub-categories.
In the last few years, Yu-Gi-Oh! has offered different, specialized versions of dueling called Speed Duel and Rush Duel, which feature simplified mechanics and remove later introduced gimmicks like XYZ and Pendulum summons. With over 10,000 cards to build with Yu-Gi-Oh! is a long-running favorite that is welcoming to new fans.
9 Flesh And Blood TCG
No official online version, several fan-run services
Created in 2019 by New Zealand-based creators Legend Story Studios, Flesh and Blood is a unique equipment-based TCG. The players use a hero that is given weapons and equipment to attack the other player, who defends with their own hero. Each hero has a “Hero Type,” which determines the playstyle and equipment that can be used.
Despite being a newcomer to the TCG space, Flesh and Blood has quickly found its footing around the world. It is a quick game to learn and is a perfect way to spend some time in a game store.
8 Magic: The Gathering
Free official digital version in Magic: The Gathering Arena
The longest-running TCG, Magic: The Gathering has been enjoyed by fans the world over for almost three decades. The game features five colors; Red, Blue, Black, White, and Green, and several card types including Artifacts, Creatures, Sorceries, which all have sub-types as well.
As Magic is nearing 100,000 unique printed cards worldwide, with hundreds more released each expansion, the diversity of play is immaculate. There are a ton of different formats to play, from the somewhat-randomized booster drafts to the large-group-focused Commander to competitive staples like Standard and Modern. No matter what a player is looking to get out of their card games, Magic can provide. Magic also has a robust free-to-play online version in Magic the Gathering Arena, making it even more accessible to new players.
7 KeyForge
No official online version, several fan-run services
KeyForge is another TCG from the mind of Richard Garfield, the creator of Magic: the Gathering. The player uses a deck of creatures, artifacts, actions, and upgrades to gather Æmber and forge three keys to win the game.
The production team of KeyForge suffered some setbacks due to the pandemic, but a new era has been hinted at by the creator. The hype around the game is big, so finding players is not a problem for newbies.
6 Cardfight!! Vanguard
No official online version, several fan-run services
Cardfight!! Vanguard is another card game that shares the spotlight with manga and anime versions. Created by artist Akira Ito, who formerly worked on several Yu-Gi-Oh! properties, the game uses two card types: Units and Orders. These card types are further broken down into Normal and Trigger Units and Normal, Blitz, and Set Orders.
In the Cardfight!! Vanguard lore, the players are Astral Spirits that call on the planet Cray to solve battles. Cardfight!! Vanguard has regularly been voted a top choice TCG ever since its release in 2010.
5 Bakugan
No official online version
Bakugan isn't as popular as it once was, but the franchise has been through a resurgence in the last few years thanks to a new anime and renewed interest in the physical game. Another thing that changed is that the game uses cards more than ever.
Players begin by setting BakuCores, which are tiles that replaced the original Gate Cards, then rolling their Bakugan while shouting “Bakugan Brawl” together. The players then take turns using their cards and BakuCores to boost their Bakugan. Though Bakugan technically has other parts like the Bakugan, Tiles, and Gear, it is still a TCG at its heart.
4 Dragon Ball Super
Mobile app for tutorial only
Dragon Ball is another anime franchise that took time to find its footing in the trading card game space. While the anime and video games follow the exploits of Goku, Gohan, and their friends, the TCG allows players to use any of the characters available.
DBS features four card types including Leader, Battle, Extra, and Unison, with the deck consisting of a single Leader card and a mix of the other three. Each leader, which can be any character from Goku to Zen-Oh to Dragon Balls themselves, also features an awakening that gives the player a massive power-up that can change the game.
3 Final Fantasy TCG
No official online version, several fan-run services
The Final Fantasy TCG is perfect for fans of Final Fantasy that want a game featuring all the protagonists together. Featuring iconic heroes like Cloud and Zidane and monsters like Bahamut and Chocobos, this TCG is a perfect for Final Fantasy superfans who want to try out a new TCG. There are four types of cards in the Final Fantasy TCG: Forward, Backup, Monster, and Summon.
The main goal of the Final Fantasy TCG is to deal 7 points of damage to the opposing player. While the game is a welcome place for fans of the franchise, it also welcomes new players who are willing to learn and love the characters.
2 Marvel Snap
Free digital game available on mobile and desktop
Marvel entered the world of licensed card games with its 2022 release Marvel Snap, and the results were fantastic. Marvel Snap offers quick and engaging gameplay in matches that only ever last six turns. With small decks and a relatively manageable card pool, Marvel Snap is perfect for Marvel fans who want to dip their toe into card games for the first time.
Despite being very approachable for new players, Marvel Snap doesn't sacrifice on fun gameplay. Each and every game will require the player to predict their opponent's plays while also strategically placing their own limited number of cards. Marvel Snap is the perfect game for experienced players and newcomers alike, and the fact that it is available on mobile devices makes it even more accessible.
1 Pokémon TCG
Free official digital versions in Pokémon TCG Online and Pokémon TCG Live
While Magic: The Gathering is the oldest TCG, the Pokémon TCG is the most iconic for several reasons. The lasting power of Pokémon as a whole has kept the game going for decades and the game goes through significant periods of renewed love. Thanks to streamers, the last few years have been a resurgence for the TCG.
The Pokémon TCG has three main card types: Pokémon, Trainer, and Energy cards. The win condition of the game is by defeating Pokémon and taking the six prize cards. The cards are also easily collectible, which itself has brought drama.