Cyberpunk, League Of Legends Games Suggest TCGs Are Having A Moment
Kotaku • • technology
Key Points:
- At PAX East 2026, the author notably shifted from playing video games to focusing on trading card games (TCGs), highlighting a refreshing change in their convention experience.
- The Cyberpunk 2077 TCG made its major debut at the event, drawing significant attention and becoming the most-funded game campaign ever on Kickstarter shortly after the show.
- Other TCGs generating buzz included Magic: The Gathering, One Piece TCG, and Riot Games' new Riftbound, which appealed to both veterans and newcomers due to its beginner-friendly design.
- The rise in TCG popularity at PAX East was partly fueled by fewer big gaming companies on the expo floor, allowing card game developers to capitalize on the growing interest and community engagement.
- Despite the surge in new TCGs, Magic: The Gathering remains dominant, bolstered by high-profile IP crossovers that continue to attract new players amidst some community concerns about crossover fatigue.
