Participating in trading card games (TCGs) can be a rewarding experience filled with fun, strategy, and community interaction. To ensure a positive environment for yourself and others, here’s a guide on good behaviour and things to avoid.
Do’s:
Be Respectful
Treat all players, regardless of their skill level or experience, with kindness and respect. We were all beginners once so think about the type of advice you would have liked to receive. If someone with experience is saying something, it’s often wise to pay attention as this is how you learn. Everyone is there to enjoy the game.
Communicate Clearly
Clear communication is one of the most important things when interacting with anyone. Be as honest as you can be and use pictures where possible when interacting online. If you’re playing in a tournament or casual match, make sure to communicate your actions clearly. This helps avoid misunderstandings.
Encourage Others
Offer positive feedback to others, especially those who are new. Support and encouragement foster a welcoming atmosphere. Positive feedback in trading helps the business look more credible and helps them out greatly. It’s a free way to say a big thank you.
Understand the Rules
Familiarize yourself with the rules of the game and specific etiquette regarding gameplay. Knowing the rules makes games flow a lot better and lets more playing actually happen. If you are new then let everyone know what your understanding of the rules is. Some players may be willing to teach you, others might be geared up for a serious battle.
Practice Good Sportsmanship
Whether you win or lose, always congratulate your opponent. If you sell someone a card and they sell it for double under your nose, they won – congratulate them. Good sportsmanship reflects well on you and the community.
Share Your Knowledge
Help fellow players understand strategies, deck building, or gameplay mechanics. Sharing your insights can enhance everyone’s experience. Contribute to discussions in a positive way. Share your thoughts and strategies without belittling others’ ideas or experiences. The better we work together, the more fun we can all have.
Respect
Be mindful of personal space and comfort levels, in person and online. Not everyone may be comfortable with the same level of interaction or may operate differently from what you are used to. Games can sometimes take time, misplays can occur, and little Timmy can fall down the well. Things happen, be patient with yourself and others and enjoy.
Don’ts:
Toxic Behavior:
Refrain from less-than-creative comments, insults, or aggressive behaviour towards others. Being nasty is not tolerated in any TCG community. Gloating can also be considered toxic by some.
Don’t Cheat
Always play fair and don’t ruin the game. Cheating not only undermines your own enjoyment but also affects others.
Don’t Interrupt:
When it’s someone else’s turn, don’t interrupt or try to influence their decisions. Let them play at their own pace. If someone offers constructive criticism, listen. Use it as a learning opportunity rather than taking it personally.
Don’t Dismiss Others’ Opinions
Everyone has different experiences in TCGs, a beginner might have a completely different perspective and help uncover something broken. Someone with experience might be telling you what you’re doing wrong. Don’t dismiss anyone without at least listening to what they have to say first.
Dont Mishandle Cards
Be mindful of how you handle your own and anyone else’s cards. Rough handling can damage cards and create an uncomfortable atmosphere. Cards are treated with respect in the community and any intentional damage made to someone else’s card is unforgivable.
Don’t Hog Resources
We are often suffering at the hands of resellers driving the prices of everything up. Don’t be part of the problem. Don’t book a space in a game and not attend without notice, it affects all involved in that game. You played a few games while others haven’t played any? Offer up your seat.
Don’t Neglect Hygiene
No sticky fingers while handling anyone’s cards. Keep yourself and your play area clean. Good hygiene is important and shows respect.
By adhering to these guidelines, you can help create an enjoyable and inclusive TCG community for everyone. Remember that the goal is to have fun while building friendships and enjoying your favorite games!