Top 5 Popular Trading Card Games to Play in 2025 — And How to Start the Right Way

Multiple Trading Card Games (TCGs) have emerged over the last decade, following the success of numerous titles within the genre. Games like Magic: The Gathering and Pokémon have set the standard for many others, spawning related games that are played even on online platforms and not just in physical form. If you want to hop on the bandwagon and join the trading card game scene, then you should consider sinking your teeth into these top five TCGs.

Gameplay is virtually the same for physical and online trading card games, and what really sets them apart are the limitations of how cards are exchanged. There are no limitations to the physical versions of Pokémon TCGs. However, several restrictions are placed on the online ones, such as only allowing exchanges of similar rarity or using transactional currencies. Virtual TCGs also utilize trading sites, such as PlayerAuctions, to find willing traders to exchange cards with. Now, without further ado, let’s jump into the top 5 most popular TCGs on the market.

Magic the Gathering

Magic: The Gathering is arguably the best TCG to play, hands down. It has a reputation of producing cards of excellent quality with gorgeous art, and the gameplay and mechanics are quite intuitive, which is a plus. It also boasts one of the largest and most dedicated followings in the TCG industry, making it a good entry point for those looking to dip their toes into the scene. It's also quite beginner-friendly if you find the right sets.

• How to Start: The best way to start learning Magic: The Gathering is to try out the online version of the game: Magic: The Gathering Arena. The tutorial offers a comprehensive overview helping newbies to familiarize themselves with the game. After that, you can move on to physical cards, but veterans recommend that you use pre-constructed decks until you really get the hang of things and create your own deck. Hold off buying boosters and focus on studying various mechanics and formats.

Pokémon

Pokémon is the most popular in terms of collecting, as many followers focus on acquiring high-rarity cards and prismatic versions. However, the community that plays the game is still relatively large. Its gameplay is very straightforward, making it easy for beginners. The game has even improved with the addition of new Pokémon to the pool, and unique editions and holograms have spiced up the competitive scene.

• How to Start: The main tip when starting to play Pokémon is not to focus on collecting expensive cards. It's a great idea to start with pre-constructed decks until you get the hang of the game's turn system and Prized Card objectives. Playing with theme decks, Battle Academy, and Battle Boxes are good stepping stones in terms of becoming a pro.

Flesh and Blood

Flesh and Blood is one of the newcomers that made a significant impact on the market. Instead of building sets or combining multiple cards to create a deck, F&B focuses on one unit card that you'll build around by equipping it with various item cards. Essentially, Flesh and Blood uses one unit that will be your primary agent in a match, and you'll only be using other cards to empower this unit or give it spells or skills to use. This unique aspect has helped the game create a name for itself, making it one of the better TCGs available.

• How to Start: Getting into Flesh and Blood means focusing on one class at a time. Each class has a distinct playstyle and mechanics, so focusing on only one helps beginners become more comfortable with the game. After choosing your unit, the best format to play in is Blitz. It's faster and more beginner-friendly since it only uses 40 cards, which is a good starting point. In addition, Blitz packs offer pre-built decks, so you don't have to worry about deck building from the get-go.

Yu-Gi-Oh!

Yu-Gi-Oh! was once recognized as the highest-selling trading game in 2009, and it remains one of the top TCGs in the market. The game popularized the use of combos and chain effect mechanics, which have spawned absolutely crazy playstyles. Yu-Gi-Oh! is arguably the most chaotic among the best TCGs, and this characteristic makes it a standout and enjoyable. Despite the usage of many combos, it's relatively easy to learn and doesn't have complicated mechanics unless you're aiming to do those 10-move-in-one-turn combinations.

• How to Start: Yu-Gi-Oh! is one of the card games that you’ll learn best if someone takes you under their wing. Attending events or visiting local game stores can really help, as the community is generally welcoming towards new players. The best set to start with is the 2-Player Starter, which is designed for beginners.

Digimon Card Game

Digimon has been revamped, and its 2020 version is now the prime. Its gameplay is simple: hatch a Digimon, let it go through standard Digivolution, and use it to fight opponents. It's not as prestigious as Magic: The Gathering, Pokémon, and Yu-Gi-Oh!, but it has a good following and is considered one of the better TCGs. Due to the fresh revamp, the game is open to innovations and meta changes.

• How to Start: Bandai has created a tutorial app for new players who want to get into this hobby, providing newcomers with a guided experience that explains the game's mechanics and fundamentals. It also features pre-built decks to give newcomers a chance to experience how matches would run. Consider buying starter decks when trying to learn Digimon, and we highly recommend the Protector of Light [ST-20] or Hero of Hope [ST-21]. However, it's generally advised to buy starter decks from current boosters or recent decks because they're more up to date with the meta.

Note: Most TCGs with online versions will include tutorials within those games. These are the best places to learn the game. The online versions also feature tradable cards, allowing you to exchange them with other gamers through official channels or platforms like PlayerAuctions.

Several TCGs are making a name for themselves within the genre, and they have huge potential. They've already established a good following and created engaging systems to hook more players. Here are some honorable mentions for card games that you might be interested in:

• Disney Lorcana

• Cardfight!! Vanguard

• Battle Spirits Saga

• Final Thoughts

• Netrunner

While they may not be the best right now, they have the opportunity to grow and challenge the five best TCGs in the future.