MeinMMO editor Nikolas Hernes has been a big fan of card games since he can remember. However, he never really played physical TCGs, at least not until a few weeks ago. Despite resisting for years, he was convinced by the card game to LoL.
I really like card games, especially when deck building is the focus. I spent a lot of time with Hearthstone or Yu-Gi-Oh! Master Duel. Although I enjoy opening booster packs, no physical TCG could convince me to really get into it.
This was probably mainly because I hardly have anyone around me who actively plays TCGs, and honestly: I have long avoided card shops with events. It felt like a waste of time, and I was worried that I would only annoy the pros with my noob decks or that I would have to spend so much money that getting started wouldn’t be worth it and that I could do something better with my time and money.
But after losing a bet with a good buddy and then being forced
to a Riftbound event, I was convinced. Now I go there every week, and it’s not just because of the game itself.
Digitally, Slay the Spire is one of the best card games:
Simple premise, complex mechanics
On my first time in a card game store, I was at a Nexus Night. It’s simply a 2-3 hour event where you can play or trade Riftbound with other people. For me, it costs 7 € and you also get a booster pack and a promo pack at the end.
Armed with a VI starter deck, I went there and learned the game along with 2 buddies and other people who were eager to answer questions. I don’t want to explain the rules too much, but instead of erasing life points, you have to take and hold locations in Riftbound.
If you conquer a location, you get a point, and for holding the location as well. Whoever has 8 points wins. Similar to lands in Magic, there are runes in Riftbound, of which you receive 2 guaranteed per turn. With these runes, you summon champions, creatures, and spells to grab the locations (2 are always in play).
Then there are Legends, which can be compared to Commanders in Magic. They have effects (passive and active) that you can use during gameplay and which determine the direction of your deck more or less. Here you can check out 2 Legends:
In principle, I found the basic rules understandable as a beginner; the complexity comes with the decks and mechanics. However, choosing a Legend gives you a direction that you can understand well. Still, Riftbound is not an easy TCG; I find Pokémon a bit more beginner-friendly.
Nevertheless, getting started was not a problem for me, mainly because of the shop itself, which keeps bringing me back every week.
A pleasant atmosphere and friendly players
Since I had chosen a starter deck, I was able to participate directly in the Nexus Night, and I was not only explained the rules but also the mechanics of my deck well. Without any problems, I could ask every player in the room for tips and rules, and I immediately understood why people come back weekly, even though there is nothing to win.
Players gave away their duplicate cards, traded valuable copies, and a strong sense of community arose. This is also due to the staff, who not only play themselves but also contribute to this atmosphere through conversations.
After just a few minutes, I felt comfortable, even though for years I had never dared to dedicate myself to a TCG due to scalpers and horror stories.
After this positive experience, I also attended a pre-Rift event for the new set Vendetta
. The registration costs 35 €, and you receive a shortened 15-card deck with a corresponding Legend and 5 boosters. You then build a short deck to play in a simple tournament format with others.
I really enjoyed that, even though I suffered 3 really serious defeats. On the one hand, the format creates a relaxed atmosphere. After all, luck determines which cards you get, and there’s no prize.
On the other hand, you learn about the new set together before it is released. The advantage is that you can try out ideas immediately and get tips from players who have already informed themselves thoroughly.
Additionally, you simply meet people who share a similar hobby. In my first round, I lost so quickly that I just talked to my opponent about LoL and other games from Riot. This at least softened the shame.
Even though there were many people who had already won tournaments, no one seemed annoyed that a noob like me had questions.
The universe of League of Legends
The advantage of Riftbound is that many players have touchpoints with LoL or other games (like Legends of Runeterra). This allows you not only to discuss these titles, but also to have a different connection to the cards and the lore, which at least is shallowly expanded.
As you can see, Riftbound has captivated me. I look at posts about the game, plan my future decks, and hope that there will soon be Thresh or Urgot as a Legend. I need my green nasties. If I had only bought the cards to play with friends, my interest would have faded.
I can only urge you: If you are into TCGs, check if there are events near you that can offer you a community to play with. From my new experience, it’s worth it and incredibly fun. MyMMO editor Caro had a similar experience with a different hobby: I thought Warhammer fans are absolute gatekeepers – now I was in the shop and am ashamed of my prejudices
Your opinion is important to us!
Do you like the article? Then let us know!