The Disney Lorcana TCG is continuously gaining popularity and becoming more widely available. If you’re considering joining in, you may be wondering about the best way to get started. Below is a ranking of every Disney Lorcana Starter deck, from least to most recommended.
Shimmering Skies has recently been released, marking the fifth set for Disney Lorcana. The TCG has been consistently expanding since its first launch, with the game-changing additions of Rise of the Floodborn and Into the Inklands. As a result, there is now a diverse selection of competitive decks to choose from.
Undoubtedly, Lorcana is a relatively new addition to the world of TCGs, and the irresistible appeal of a Disney IP has attracted many newcomers to the hobby. For those looking to get started, the ideal option is to begin with a Starter Deck, and currently there are 11 options to choose from.
To assist you in determining the most suitable option, we have created a comprehensive ranking of all the Lorcana Starter Decks available. This list takes into account various factors, which we have detailed below.
Ranking the Disney Lorcana Starter Decks
Determining the superiority of one Lorcana Starter Deck over another is not as simple as it may seem. When starting out in a TCG, factors beyond just power must be taken into account.
Naturally, the way these decks compare to each other on the tabletop is taken into consideration in this specific ranking, but there are also other criteria we have utilized to evaluate them.
Certain Lorcana Starter Decks contain valuable cards that can aid in building stronger decks in the future. This can result in cost savings as you strive towards achieving a more competitive level of play.
Additionally, there are elements of personal preference, especially in a game designed for Disney enthusiasts who may prefer a more flavorful approach to gameplay. Taking all of these factors into account, the following is a ranking of each Disney Lorcana Starter Deck.
Into the Inklands Ruby/Sapphire – Plenty of Pluck
Despite any love for Ducktales, we have chosen the Plenty of Pluck Starter Deck as our least favorite. Although the Ruby/Sapphire Ink combo gained popularity in the competitive formats of Set 3 and is anticipated to be a strong contender in Set 4, very few cards from this deck were actually used.
Despite this, it remains relatively weak compared to other Starter Decks in settings with more restrictions. The deck mainly features characters from Ducktales and Moana, making it difficult for the Lorcana Deck to establish a strong presence.
If you successfully merge your Montunui Island Paradise Location with Adventurous Questers like Maui, the Demigod of Flight, you can boost your Inkwell, but there are limited high-quality threats to take advantage of. Additionally, it has an inconsistent main method for drawing cards which relies on having all three of Huey, Dewey, and Louie in play. Acquiring all three and maintaining their presence on the field requires extreme luck.
Despite its shortcomings, there are still some noteworthy guaranteed pickups that make the Lorcana Deck somewhat useful. These include two copies of Dragon Fire from the dwindling Set 1, as well as Maui’s Fish Hook which is being included in early drafts for Set 4 Ruby/Amethyst decks.
Unfortunately, that is the only positive aspect of this particular deck. There are superior Ink Color options available in other Starter Decks, which also offer the added benefit of being more enjoyable to play.
Ursula’s Return: Amber/Amethyst – Madrigal Magic
We were eager to rank this Lorcana Starter Deck higher on the list. While there are some promising cards that can enhance existing decks, beginners should focus on building their own decks first.
The Singer 7 ability of Ariel, the Singing Mermaid, immediately comes to mind as it allows her to sing high-cost Songs and greatly contribute to the new Sing Together mechanic. However, there is only one Ariel available. Another potential option is Julietta Madrigal, who could serve as a more affordable draw option compared to Rapunzel Gifted with Healing.
However, the Madrigal Magic Starter Deck falls short in several areas. Despite belonging to a popular aggressive color combination, it lacks the same level of speed and pressure as other Amber/Amethyst decks, such as the Set 1 Starter.
Although it emphasizes the cooperative strategy of the Madrigal family, it falls short of including some of the tribe’s top cards. The exclusion of Bruno Madrigal Undetected Uncle and Alma Madrigal Family Matriarch is reasonable, but it weakens the deck when played on the tabletop. Of course, it can be improved, but the Madrigals do not seem to pose a significant threat to more established meta archetypes.
If you enjoy playing with flavorful decks and are a big fan of Encanto, this deck may be perfect for casual play. However, it may not perform as well as other Lorcana Starter Decks, let alone those that have been upgraded.
Rise of the Floodborn Amber/Sapphire – Tactical Teamwork
This Lorcana Starter Deck has an entertaining theme centered around the cooperative gameplay of Seven Dwarves characters. It includes at least one of each dwarf, allowing you to strategically enhance each one as they are played.
When compared to other Starter Decks, it may struggle with card draw, leading to a reliance on top decking if you are unable to activate its limited draw engine. The main component of this engine is Hiram Flaversham Toymaker, accompanied by two Judy Hops Optimistic Officers.
Hiram is able to destroy an item while playing and during questing, resulting in drawing two cards. Similarly, Judy also has a similar ability while playing, but only draws one card. If you are unable to find these two cards, you will be left to rely on luck and may struggle against opponents who have more resources in their hand.
Although it is a highly beneficial deck for those seeking to incorporate Sapphire in their deck, Hiram Flaversham remains a fundamental card in most decks. Additionally, this deck includes three Pawpsicles, which almost completes a full playset. On the Amber side, The Queen Regal Monarch serves as a valuable one-cost shift target, allowing players to play the five-cost The Queen Commanding Presence on turn two. This deck provides both of these cards.
This specific Starter Deck still offers the potential for wins and has valuable options for those interested in using a Sapphire deck. And for those who prefer a Song-centric Amber/Steel deck, there are potential inclusions available here as well.
The First Chapter Sapphire/Steel – A Steadfast Strategy
Similar to the Set 2 Tactical Teamwork Starter Deck, this one also includes a portion of Sapphire’s draw engine. However, it specifically provides the necessary cards to ramp your Inkwell and is an essential component of its overall strategy.
The Sapphire/Steel Starter Deck from the First Chapter focuses on increasing your Ink supply to give you an advantage in playing powerful cards earlier than your opponent. Cards such as Gramma Tala Storyteller and Mickey Mouse Detective provide additional Ink at the beginning of the game, allowing you to unleash heavy hitters like Maui Demigod and Simba Fighting Prince.
This deck contains essential cards for both Sapphire and Steel decks, including removal options such as Smash and Grab Your Swords, as well as One Jump Ahead and the aforementioned cards for ramping. Additionally, with a new archetype emerging in the Set 4 meta, even Hercules True Hero may gain increased value.
Despite its potential, this deck’s biggest flaw is its inconsistency. Without drawing the necessary early-game ramp cards, defeat can come slowly and painfully. It is commonly acknowledged that the fate of a match can be determined by the cards in your opening hand.
Despite its potential for a ton of fun, playing this deck can be unreliable at best and is considered the weakest of the Set 1 Starter Decks. However, it still holds value due to its inclusion of key staples that can be used to enhance your own deck building skills.
7. Shimmering Skies Ruby and Amethyst – Ready to Let Loose
The Ruby/Amethyst Starter Deck from Shimmering Skies utilizes a highly potent Ink combination that has proven successful in many competitive tournaments. Despite this, it may not rank as high on the list as one would expect.
Regrettably, it appears that the approach it wants to pursue is unclear. While it incorporates elements of control, Lore removal, and a Location-based style, it lacks a clear focus on any one of these, resulting in perplexing hands that include aspects of all three.
Among these strategies, the Locations would have been the most intriguing if it weren’t for one major flaw: there is only a single Location in the deck. However, the Library – A Gift for Belle is an exceptional Location that deserves recognition. Its presence in the deck makes it a valuable option to consider as an alternative to the Queen’s Castle.
The effect of having Characters at The Library draw a card for you if they are banished makes it a dependable draw engine. This is especially true if you are willing to sacrifice your Characters.
Apart from this, a card such as Finders Keepers, which offers a remarkable three-card draw, could potentially be included in certain competitive decks. Additionally, Glimmer vs Glimmer may be considered for inclusion in Ruby’s removal options.
While this Disney Lorcana Starter Deck has the potential to secure a victory against its opponents, it may not be as effortless as those ranked higher. Additionally, the potential meta movers included in the deck can be obtained at a relatively low cost outside of it.
6. Emerald/Ruby – Daring and Deception
Transitioning from one Lorcana Set 1 Starter Deck to another, the Ruby/Emerald deck has proven its effectiveness in formats restricted to Starter Decks. Despite its challenging gameplay, it offers the most satisfying rewards.
The strategy relies heavily on using deception to outsmart your opponent. Cards such as the Mad Hatter, Gracious Host, and Quest for three lore are considered Emeralds and must be addressed. However, if your opponent chooses to Challenge the Mad Hatter, you gain the advantage of drawing an extra card. Additionally, the Jasper Common Crook and Iago Loud-Mouthed Parrot can prevent your opponent from successfully completing their own Quests.
The deck also includes specialized Ruby cards that can remove lore from your opponents, hindering their path to victory. Additionally, both colors offer Evasive characters such as Pongo Ol’ Rascal and Peter Pan Never Landing, which can only be countered by other Evasive characters. This gives the deck an advantage against many Starter Decks, and having one or two of these characters on the board can secure a win for the player.
This deck’s downfall lies in its abundance of costly, uninkable cards that can linger in your hand and impede your progress. It can be incredibly frustrating to be stuck at four Ink and have limited options available.
Additionally, there are not an excessive amount of essential cards for either color. The most notable options include Actions such as Mother Knows Best and Dragon Fire, although they are not consistently used. Similarly, the previously prominent threat, Aladdin Heroic Outlaw, is now being overshadowed by newer alternatives.
Playing with this deck is highly enjoyable and it has the ability to secure wins against other Starter Decks, which can be quite satisfying for beginners. However, be ready to search for the specific cards you desire as you begin constructing your own deck.
Shimmering Skies Emerald/Steel – A Roaring Guest List
Similar to the Ruby/Amethyst version, the Shimmering Skies Starter Deck is clear in its objectives. Its primary focus is on inflicting damage on enemy characters and providing various rewards for doing so.
Due to this, it performs significantly better in Starter Deck battles and its effortless synergies greatly contribute to its ranking. Moves such as Tug of War and Food Fight aid in placing damage markers on opponents, and several of the deck’s Characters are able to capitalize on this advantage.
Scar – Vengeful Lion enables you to draw a card whenever one of your Characters challenges a Character that has sustained damage, while Ward provides protection to help generate significant value. Robin Hood – Sneaky Sleuth and Shenzi – Head Hyena also serve to acquire ample Lore for the same purpose.
Not only that, but the deck also includes a variety of Evasive options that are consistently valuable in Disney Lorcana’s Starter Deck gameplay. However, it seems that the deck’s archetype may not be the most optimal choice for those seeking to play at a highly competitive level.
Pete, the Games Referee, comes in a near-full playset and we believe he will be a powerhouse in the tournament scene. His ability to neutralize cards such as Be Prepared and Grab Your Sword makes him a valuable addition. As an Uncommon card, purchasing him separately from booster packs can save you money.
In general, the Emerald/Steel Starter Deck from Shimmering Skies is ideal for beginners and those looking to learn the game. However, for those who are seeking to advance their skills in Lorcana, it may be more beneficial to consider a higher ranked deck from this list.
Ursula’s Return Sapphire/Steel – Stand Together
We are facing a precarious situation where we risk ranking this Lorcana Starter Deck too low or too high. It has been placed relatively high due to its potential, but its lack of proven performance prevents it from ranking even higher.
Playing with this deck can be challenging as it is quite complex. However, it boasts impressive synergies that capitalize on the presence of Hero cards in the deck. Philoctetes’ No-Nonsense Instructor provides one lore and a Challenger +1 for each Hero played, while Ling’s Imperial Soldier adds an additional point of Strength to all Heroes.
Despite the presence of multiple Heroes with unique synergies in the deck, everyone is able to benefit. However, there is a limitation when it comes to card draw as the only option is an eight-cost, uninkable song that leaves multiple characters vulnerable due to the addition of the new Sing Together mechanic.
Despite its shoddy performance, the base it provides for constructing a Sapphire/Steel heroes deck is remarkable. Our playtesting, conducted through Lorcana Online, has demonstrated its potency as a combination, due to the powerful lore engines of both Anna Braving the Storm and Anna True-Hearted.
This Lorcana Starter Deck is undoubtedly superior to the other Ursula’s Return Starter deck and has the potential to become one of the top choices in the future. If you are a fan of Heroes and enjoy tribal gameplay, this deck is definitely worth considering.
3. Into the Inklands Amber/Emerald – Dogged and Dynamic
The Lorcana Dogged and Dynamic Starter Deck sets itself apart from the Ruby/Sapphire version with its practical additions and simplified gameplay. Although it may struggle with removing cards, the deck offers plenty of enjoyment with its ability to fill the field with Dalmatian Puppies and turn the tables.
The deck is filled with affordable characters such as Kida Atlantean, Wendy Darling Talented Sailor, and the Dalmatian Puppy cards. The main strategy is to overpower the opponent with a strong board presence in the beginning and pressure them to react.
The meta has been greatly impacted by the fantastic Actions available in this deck. Useful for Emerald Decks are draw options such as Strike a Good Match and Hypnotize, which not only help with card advantage but also force the opponent to discard. Additionally, Kit Cloudkicker, which has seen significant play, and Robin Hood Daydreamer, with his four Lore, have proven to be powerful finishers.
Regrettably, the Locations featured in this deck are among the least desirable options. It is quite disappointing as they were intended to be the main focus of this particular Lorcana set, but it is not a significant drawback.
In summary, the Lorcana Starter Deck is an excellent option for those looking to strengthen their Emerald deck. Additionally, it presents a favorable opportunity for securing victories against other Starter decks.
Rise of the Floodborn Amethyst/Steel – Might and Magic
Despite facing tough competition from numerous other decks, the Lorcana Starter Deck was ultimately chosen as the top pick due to its inclusion of powerful, meta-defining cards that are extremely beneficial for novice players.
The Merlin and Mim Bounce Package, which is commonly included in highly successful Amethyst decks, is well-known. The Merlin cards provide benefits upon being played and upon leaving play, while Madam Mim’s cards necessitate the return of another card to your hand upon being played.
By timing them correctly, you can maximize the potential of cards such as Merlin Goat, which gives you a free Lore when it comes into play. Just send in a Madam Mim Fox, which also has Rush, to bring back your Goat and play it again on your next turn. This strategy also works with Merlin Rabbit, who lets you draw a card upon entering and leaving play.
Regrettably, this deck does not contain a sufficient amount of bounce cards to consistently play with, and the Rabbit is the sole source of card draw. While Tiana Celebrating Princess may provide a benefit for having an empty hand, it does not outweigh the frustration caused by the lack of bounce cards.
Despite the potential losses you may face in Starter Deck play, this deck more than makes up for it with its inclusion of Let the Storm Rage On and Benja Guardian of the Dragon Gem – two staple cards for Steel decks. Additionally, the Bounce Package for Amethyst provides another strong option for removal pieces.
1. Amber/Amethyst – The Heart of Magic
Ever since its release, the Lorcana Starter Deck has consistently remained the top choice among The First Chapter starters and every subsequent set. This is due to its user-friendly gameplay and the inclusion of high-quality cards that are a valuable addition to any collection.
With its inexpensive characters and the ability to flood the board with them, this Starter Deck will consistently dominate over the others. The key is to prioritize completing quests early and frequently, and it will prove to be a successful strategy.
You will receive three copies of Friends on the Other Side, Amethyst’s most effective draw tool, giving you the ability to retrieve two cards from the top of your deck. Additionally, Part of your World and Hades Lord of the Underworld enable you to retrieve characters from your discard pile and add them to your hand. These abilities ensure that you always have options available to you.
Although having many low-health characters may cause difficulties, one Grab Your Swords can easily remove most of them, although this is not a common occurrence. In case of a Challenge, any cards that are removed can be retrieved if you have Dr. Facilier Agent Provocateur in play.
Cards such as Pascal Rapunzel’s Companion, Stitch New Dog, Maleficent Sorceress, and others are all valuable additions to specific competitive decks. The only error one could make when beginning their Lorcana Journey with this particular deck is neglecting to purchase a second one.
Testing Lorcana Starter Deck matchups on inktbale.net can also help you choose.
The standings for the Disney Lorcana Starter Deck rankings are current, but as the game is still in its early stages, there will be more to come.
We will continue to update these rankings as new starter decks become available and the meta changes, potentially making previously disregarded cards a more valuable choice.
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