What are the most popular TCG brands?

By Jessie Schreuders
4 min read

Trading Card Games (TCGs) are a huge craze worldwide and are enjoyed by millions of players. From classic titles like Magic: The Gathering and Yu-Gi-Oh!, to more recent and niche brands, TCGs offer something for every collector and player. Here I will give you a complete overview of the most popular and lesser known TCG brands, including their founding year, popularity, and current status. Let’s take a closer look at the top brands!

1. Magic: The Gathering (1993 - present)

  • Released by: Wizards of the Coast
  • Popular in: Worldwide, especially in the US, Europe, and Japan

Magic: The Gathering, or MTG, was the first modern TCG and set the standard for almost all subsequent TCGs. The game has a huge and active tournament scene and remains one of the most popular TCGs in the world. It plays with strategic depth, with a huge variety of cards and formats.

As you know, MTG has had a huge impact on the TCG landscape. Even 30 years after its founding, MTG remains the leader in the industry.

2. Pokémon Trading Card Game (1996 - present)

  • Released by: Media Factory (Japan), later The Pokémon Company
  • Popular in: Worldwide, especially Japan, US and Europe

The Pokémon TCG is one of the best-selling and most popular TCGs of all time. It has constantly evolved over the years, with sets that tie into the Pokémon video games and anime. New sets are released regularly, and the demand for rare cards only increases. Pokémon has proven itself to be a time-tested franchise.

A major reason for its enduring popularity is the powerful combination of video game icons and game systems that ensure that both young players and experienced collectors have a great time.

3. Yu-Gi-Oh! Trading Card Game (1999 - present)

  • Released by: Konami
  • Popular in: Worldwide, with strong markets in Japan, US and Europe

Based on the popular Yu-Gi- Oh! manga and anime, this TCG has built a huge fan base. The game is known for its dynamic gameplay and iconic monsters from the anime. Yu-Gi-Oh! has built a long history with its extensive cards and strategies.

As you probably know, Yu-Gi-Oh! cards are entirely dedicated to the duel. It remains one of the best-selling TCGs and has an influential role in the industry.

4. Digimon Card Game (1999 - 2000, 2020 - present)

  • Released by: Bandai
  • Popular in: Japan, US, Europe

The original Digimon Card Game was popular in Japan, but its recent 2020 relaunch has seen a global revival of the brand. The game is now praised for its tight strategy and ties to the Digimon anime. Compared to other TCGs, Digimon has a unique gameplay system and is an interesting choice for both new and returning players.

5. Flesh and Blood (2019 - present)

  • Released by: Legend Story Studios
  • Popular in: US, Australia, Europe

Flesh and Blood is aimed at the competitive player and is one of the fastest growing TCGs in recent years. It offers strategic depth and is particularly suitable for professional tournaments. The community is constantly growing, and the game has firmly positioned itself as a serious competitor to the established brands.

6. One Piece Card Game (2022 - present)

  • Released by: Bandai
  • Popular in: Japan, US, Europe

Based on the famous anime and manga, the One Piece Card Game has gained a large following in a short period of time. With a simple yet strategic system, it appeals to both newcomers and experienced players. The One Piece TCG promises a long life and many updates that tie in with the anime and manga.

7. Dragon Ball Super Card Game (2017 - present)

  • Released by: Bandai
  • Popular in: Japan, US, Europe

The Dragon Ball Super Card Game offers strategic gameplay with the iconic Dragon Ball characters. It is popular among anime fans and offers fast-paced, exciting duels that fit well with the dynamic world of Dragon Ball. It is ideal for fans who enjoy anime and fast-paced action.

8. Weiss Schwarz (2008 – present)

  • Released by: Bushiroad
  • Popular in: Japan, US

This anime-based TCG has licenses from several popular anime series, giving it a direct connection to Japanese pop culture. It is an interesting choice for anime fans who want to see their favorite characters in a card game.

9. Cardfight!! Vanguard (2011 - present)

  • Released by: Bushiroad
  • Popular in: Japan, US, Southeast Asia

With its unique gameplay and large Asian fanbase, Cardfight!! Vanguard has made its place in the TCG world. It offers dynamic combat and has many strategic depths for lovers of complex games.

10. Lorcana (2023 - present)

  • Published by: Ravensburger
  • Popular in: US, Europe

Lorcana is a Disney-based TCG that has quickly gained popularity. Thanks to the nostalgia of the iconic Disney characters, it appeals to a wide audience, from young to old. It has the potential to become big in the TCG community.