If you are interested in TCGs, you should try Magic: The Gathering . No other game offers so much depth, strategy and freedom. As a collector and player, I have been playing it for years - and I can tell you: this game never gets old.

How does Magic: The Gathering work?

As you know, in Magic you build a deck with which you try to defeat your opponent. You play as a planeswalker , a powerful magician who casts spells, summons creatures and uses mana. That mana comes from different land cards and is divided into five colors: white, blue, black, red and green.

Each color represents a different play style. Blue is all about control and clever tricks. Red is fast and aggressive. Green builds big creatures. That variety makes every game different — and that’s exactly why I keep playing.

What makes Magic so unique?

Honestly? The combinations are endless. There are cards for almost every strategy imaginable. And the constant flow of new sets keeps the game evolving.

However, what appeals to me most is how you can develop your own play style. You can play competitively, casually, solo or in groups. I personally love Commander – a social format where you play with 100 unique cards. Every pot feels like a story.

How many Magic cards are there?

Magic has been around since 1993 and now has over 25,000 unique cards . That sounds like a lot – and it is. Luckily, you don’t have to know them all to have fun. You pick a format that works for you and build your decks within that.

What is the most expensive Magic card?

That is without a doubt Black Lotus from the Alpha set. This card is both famous and infamous. It is incredibly powerful, only came out once and was never reprinted.

A PSA 10 copy sold for over €500,000 . Yes, really. And trust me, that’s no exaggeration. Black Lotus is to Magic what the first Charizard is to Pokémon – only rarer.

Collecting or playing?

Both! Magic is a perfect combination. You can collect cards for their value, rarity or art – and play with them. I collect cards from old sets myself, but also use modern cards for my decks.

There are also players who are purely investing. Some modern cards increase in value quickly, especially if they are played a lot. Think of cards like Fable of the Mirror-Breaker or Jeweled Lotus .

How do you sell Magic cards?

Do you have cards that you no longer use? There are two good options:

• Cardmarket.com – Large platform with many users.
• Advantages : easy accessibility, low prices.
• Disadvantages : transferring money sometimes takes a long time, customer service leaves much to be desired. Orders regularly come from abroad.
• RareCards.nl – Dutch site where you can sell easily and safely.
• Advantages : fast communication, reliable service, no hassle with foreign buyers.

I use both myself. Cardmarket for large bulk, RareCards for targeted sales within the Netherlands.

What do you need to get started?

My advice: buy a Commander Deck or Starter Set . That way you can play right away without having to build everything yourself.

In addition, I recommend:

• Sleeves and deckbox – Protect your cards right away.
• Playmat – Provides clarity and prevents wear.
• EDHREC.com – Essential if you play Commander and are looking for deck ideas.

Don't start too big. Build your collection slowly. That keeps it fun and manageable.

Magic lives through the community

Magic isn’t just about cards. The community is strong too. You’ll find players everywhere: in local stores, on Facebook, via Discord or WhatsApp groups . Friday night is often Friday Night Magic – the time to play casually, meet people and test new decks.

I've made a lot of friends through Magic. That social aspect is what makes the game really special.

Magic: The Gathering isn’t a fad. It’s a proven game with a rich history and a huge community. Whether you come to collect, play, or invest — Magic gives you the freedom to choose your own path.

And trust me, once you start, you'll keep coming back. 🚀