Best Trading Card Games to Get Into in 2026 (Australia)
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The best trading card game to start in 2026 depends on what you want: a franchise you love, a competitive scene, or just fun packs to open. This guide compares the top games you can buy in Australia, with what each is best for and what to buy first. Last updated 9 June 2026.
Best TCGs to get into in 2026, compared
| Game | Best for | Start with |
|---|---|---|
| Pokémon | Almost anyone; biggest scene and resale market | Elite Trainer Box or booster box |
| Disney Lorcana | Disney fans and relaxed players | Starter deck |
| One Piece | Anime fans who want fast games | Starter deck or booster box |
| Gundam Card Game | Mecha fans; new and growing in Australia | Starter deck |
| Riftbound | League of Legends fans; board-control play | Proving Grounds or Champion Deck |
| Star Wars Unlimited | Star Wars fans; two-player duels | Two-player starter |
| Yu-Gi-Oh! | Players who like deep combos | Structure deck |
| Magic: The Gathering | Strategy depth and Commander nights | Commander deck or Bundle |
A quick word on each
Pokémon is the safe first pick. It has the largest player base, the deepest sealed-product market, and a 2026 packed with Mega Evolution sets and the 30th Celebration anniversary release. Start with an Elite Trainer Box.
Disney Lorcana is welcoming and quick to learn, built around Disney glimmers and a race to 20 lore. A starter deck has you playing in minutes. See our Lorcana 2026 schedule for what is coming.
One Piece rewards aggressive, fast games and has a passionate anime following. Our One Piece 2026 calendar tracks every set.
Gundam Card Game is the newest big launch and is growing fast in Australia. Our Gundam how-to-play guide walks you through it.
Riftbound, the League of Legends TCG, is a board-control game where you fight for battlefields rather than racing damage. Star Wars Unlimited pits leaders and bases against each other in tight two-player duels. Yu-Gi-Oh! suits players who love deep combo turns, and Magic: The Gathering offers the most strategic depth, especially in Commander.
How to choose your game
- Pick a franchise you love. You will play more, and learn faster, with characters you enjoy.
- Decide players or collectors. For play, buy a starter or structure deck. For collecting, buy sealed booster product.
- Check the local scene. Pokémon, One Piece, Lorcana and Magic have the most events in Australia.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best TCG for a complete beginner?
Pokémon or Disney Lorcana. Both are easy to learn, widely stocked, and start with a single ready-to-play product.
What is the cheapest way to try a new card game?
A starter or structure deck. It gives you a complete, ready deck for far less than building from sealed boxes.
Which TCG is best to collect or invest in?
Pokémon has the deepest sealed-product market, though Lorcana and One Piece have grown fast. Buy sealed and keep it in good condition.
Where can I buy these games in Australia?
GB Toys stocks sealed product across Pokémon, Lorcana, One Piece, Gundam, Riftbound, Star Wars Unlimited, Yu-Gi-Oh and Magic, shipped Australia-wide in AUD.
Find your game at GB Toys
Whatever you want to play in 2026, GB Toys has the sealed product to start, shipped Australia-wide. Pick a game, grab a starter, and jump in.
