The popularity of the Disney Lorcana Trading Card Game (TCG) continues to rise, making it an enticing option for both newcomers and seasoned players alike. If you’re considering diving into this magical realm, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to every Disney Lorcana Starter Deck, ranked from least to most effective.
As the TCG moves into its fifth set, with the recent release of Shimmering Skies, it has experienced significant growth since its inception. The introduction of Rise of the Floodborn and Into the Inklands has expanded the competitive landscape, offering a diverse range of deck-building strategies.
For many players enticed by the allure of Disney’s iconic franchises, the best entry point into the game is through Starter Decks. Currently, a total of eleven Starter Decks are available to choose from, each offering unique gameplay experiences. Below, we outline the rankings based on various influential factors.
Ranking the Disney Lorcana Starter Decks
Assessing the quality of a Lorcana Starter Deck can be tricky. It’s not merely about power; many other aspects come into play when determining which deck will serve you best as you start your TCG journey.
While the competitive viability of each Starter Deck is one significant criterion, other factors are equally important to consider. These include the value of specific cards that might bolster your future deck-building endeavors and the overall theme of the deck, particularly for a game that draws heavily on beloved Disney characters.
With these considerations in mind, let’s explore the rankings of each Disney Lorcana Starter Deck.
11. Into the Inklands Ruby/Sapphire – Plenty of Pluck
Unfortunately, the Plenty of Pluck Starter Deck lands at the bottom of our list. Despite the Ruby/Sapphire Ink combination making some competitive waves, many of this deck’s cards remain underutilized. Predominantly featuring characters from DuckTales and Moana, this deck struggles to establish a solid strategy.
While it offers potential synergy with its Montunui Island Paradise Location and Reckless Questers like Maui Soaring Demigod, strategic execution is hampered by a limited card-draw engine that relies heavily on a trio of Huey, Dewey, and Louie—a feat that often requires an extraordinary amount of luck to pull off.
However, it does provide two copies of Dragon Fire from an earlier set, and Maui’s Fish Hook remains a valuable tool in upcoming mergers. Still, more enjoyable and competitive options are available.
10. Ursula’s Return Amber/Amethyst – Madrigal Magic
This deck could have ranked higher if not for its shortcomings. While it features several potentially useful cards, its overall effectiveness leaves much to be desired, especially for new players looking to craft solid foundational decks.
Ariel Singing Mermaid, for instance, has a useful ability that supports the new Sing Together mechanic, but unfortunately, only one copy is available. Without access to essential cards like Bruno Madrigal or Alma Madrigal, the deck struggles to provide competitive pressure.
Fans of Encanto may enjoy this deck’s thematic elements, but for those seeking serious competition, alternatives may offer better value and performance.
9. Rise of the Floodborn Amber/Sapphire – Tactical Teamwork
This Starter Deck embraces the classic theme of Seven Dwarves characters, offering a snapshot of its potential through synergistic gameplay. However, players may find their draws limited, leading to potential card droughts during matches.
Key cards such as Hiram Flaversham and Judy Hops function well for drawing, but inconsistency in drawing these crucial pieces can hinder overall performance. Still, it provides valuable staples crucial for many Sapphire-based decks, and there are opportunities for potential mastery.
8. The First Chapter Sapphire/Steel – A Steadfast Strategy
This deck focuses on increasing your Inkwell to access powerful threats quickly. By utilizing cards like Gramma Tala Storyteller, the potential for early-game advantage increases.
However, players face volatility in experiences because a lack of early-game ramp cards can spell disaster for the overall match, contributing to a limited ability to secure victories. Nevertheless, it remains a solid foundation for Sapphire and Steel strategies, with cards amenable to future development.
7. Shimmering Skies Ruby/Amethyst – Ready to Let Loose
The Ruby/Amethyst deck from Shimmering Skies utilizes a powerful Ink combination that has proven its worth in competition. Unfortunately, its mixed strategies lead to confusion, reducing the coherence required for successful gameplay.
With only one location—The Library, a powerful card for drawing—this deck holds some potential but lacks a focused strategy to be consistently successful against better-constructed decks.
6. The First Chapter Emerald/Ruby – Daring and Deception
This deck does remarkably well within Starter Deck formats, rewarding players who navigate its intricacies. The combination of clever evasive tactics and lore manipulation creates a compelling dynamic that can lead to victories against less strategic opponents.
However, it suffers from an abundance of high-cost, uninkable cards, limiting your options when the game is underway. Despite this, some effective actions and character combinations can yield satisfying outcomes if played skillfully.
5. Shimmering Skies Emerald/Steel – A Roaring Guest List
In contrast to its Ruby/Amethyst counterpart, the Emerald/Steel Starter Deck offers a clear strategy focused on generating damage to enemy characters. This synergy enhances gameplay, allowing for effective execution against opposing teams.
However, while it shines in casual settings, it may not suffice in competitive play as the metagame evolves. With utility cards like Pete – Games Referee and powerful actions, it’s an excellent choice for initial endeavors while keeping room for growth.
4. Ursula’s Return Sapphire/Steel – Stand Together
Potentially underrated, this deck features remarkable synergies that reward players who can capitalize on playing Hero cards effectively. While navigating through the challenges can be tricky, the deck’s core setup presents promising opportunities for further exploration.
However, it suffers from limited card draw options, which could hinder the deck’s performance, especially when trying to build around its theme of Heroes. If you enjoy tribal mechanics and are willing to experiment, this deck holds significant promise.
2. Into the Inklands Amber/Emerald – Dogged and Dynamic
Setting itself apart from the Ruby/Sapphire variant, this Amber/Emerald deck shines with its accessibility and fun gameplay. With a plethora of low-cost characters, players can quickly dominate the board state, creating a major challenge for opponents.
It includes an array of enjoyable actions, while its limited choices for Locations slightly dampen the overall strategy. However, the likely outcomes still favor players who prefer a robust Emerald-focused experience.
1. The First Chapter Amber/Amethyst – The Heart of Magic
Since its launch, this Starter Deck has maintained its top ranking thanks to a combination of playability and valuable card offerings. The strategy revolves around flooding the board with low-cost characters, enabling players to maximize Quest opportunities.
With access to three copies of Friends on the Other Side, an essential card drawing tool, this deck ensures that players remain resourceful throughout matches. However, they must remain cautious of opponents who might counteract their numerous low-health characters.
Overall, this deck serves as an exceptional starting point for newcomers embarking on their Lorcana adventure, and it’s prudent to consider acquiring a second set for future endeavors.
To aid in your journey through the enchanting world of Disney Lorcana, consider utilizing resources like Disney Lorcana’s official site for updates and card information. We will continue to refine these rankings as new decks emerge and the metagame evolves.
By staying attuned to the ever-shifting landscape of this vibrant TCG, you’ll not only enhance your gameplay experience but also unlock the potential for future competitive success.
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