If you’re new to collecting a trading card game (like me) it can be daunting to get into it, especially if the game has been around for a little while. There are probably a variety of different sets that have been released, different “tiers” of booster packs and boxes, and maybe you’ve even seen cards with special art on it and you have no idea how to get it. Where do you spend your money?
This article is for you, the new-ish person who is trying to establish a collection and might be on a budget.
My first piece of advice is to always take a second and understand what the landscape of the games looks like. For example, Star Wars Unlimited is about to release their 4th set and they do that every 4 months.
Each set has regular art cards, showcases, weekly play promotional cards, alternative art cards, “hyperspace” cards, foiled cards, cards you can only get at tournaments or conventions, JUDGE cards, and now “prestige” cards with an even MORE special alternative art and serialization (e.g., 4 out of 250). Depending on how “pure” or complete you want your collection to be, tracking it can be very difficult.
My second piece of advice is to always check with your local game store to see if they host a weekly event and start to build a relationship with the local scene. Many stores, and people, have bulk they are willing to sell for cheap OR to give away for free! This is a great, easy way to get play sets (3 of a kind) for all the Common and Uncommon cards for your collection without breaking the back on buying booster boxes.
Anyway, that’s it for now! Stay tuned for Part 2!
Comments