North America Trading Card Games Market

North America Trading Card Games Market Size

The North America trading card games market was valued at USD 2.8 billion in 2025. The market is expected to grow from USD 3.1 billion in 2026 to USD 5.8 billion in 2035, at a CAGR of 7.4%, according to latest report published by Global Market Insights Inc.

The North American trading card games (TCG) market is anticipated to continue growing at a strong rate due to an increasing number of people interested in gaming and collecting. According to the Entertainment Software Association, 65% of American adults play video games or card games, indicating a heightened interest in interactive forms of entertainment. Companies such as Wizards of the Coast have been able to take advantage of this increasing consumer participation by expanding their physical and digital product offerings for Magic: The Gathering.

Blockchain and digital platforms are helping to revolutionize this industry. With the use of blockchain technology, players can be confident that they own their digital cards and that those digital cards are authentic. Additionally, with digital trading platforms such as eBay and TCGplayer, the buying and selling of trading cards is much simpler. According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the gaming industry is projected to increase blockchain technology usage at an annual rate of 20%, which will further contribute to the digitalization of the trading card market.

The rise in popularity of TCGs is also being fueled by partnerships between TCG publishers and various entertainment franchises. One such partnership is between Panini America and professional sports leagues, including the NFL and NBA. This partnership gives Panini the opportunity to produce sports-themed trading cards, attracting new customers to the TCG marketplace. By working with these major professional sports leagues, Panini has greater access to a large number of potential customers who are already passionate about sports and likely to purchase trading cards related to the sports they love.

In 2023, the National Retail Federation (NRF), which is ranked as one of the largest and most established associations for retailers, reported a growth of 12% on a yearly basis in collectible sales; furthermore, it clearly indicates that there is an increasing demand for collectible trading cards. In addition to government support, events such as Comic-Con and Gen Con offer publishers a venue to present their products; thus, expanding the ability for publishers to build relationships with consumers and create new markets.

Thus, the TCG marketplace will continue to experience substantial growth during the forecast period due to technological advances, the creation of strategic partnerships between companies, and an increase in consumer interest in collectible trading cards. The evolution of this marketplace reinforces how significant this marketplace is within the larger entertainment and collectibles industry

North America Trading Card Games Market Trends

Changing innovation and technology transformation are important for the growth of the North America trading card games industry.

• The North American trading card game (TCG) market is seeing a dramatic change due to the introduction of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies. These products provide engaging experiences for users because TCGs can now be played in a more immersive environment. The use of AR technology on cards allows players to interact with three-dimensional (3D) characters and other interactive elements within the game, making it more appealing to technology-friendly players.
  

• As digital technology continues to evolve, it has had a major impact on the TCG market, especially with regards to how companies are now distributing and selling games digitally. In addition, players now have a rapidly growing number of options for virtual TCGs. The growth of this category has allowed players from around the world to gather together and play against each other while saving on production costs.
  
• Another significant trend in the TCG market is the partnership between companies that produce TCGs and popular entertainment properties. The demand for themed collections of TCGs created through these partnerships continues to increase because they appeal to established fan bases, ensuring continued growth potential for this segment of the gaming market.
  
• North American trading card game publishers are placing an increased emphasis on eco-friendly practices. Many publishers use eco-sustainable materials in the production of their cards and packaging to respond to the increasing consumer demand for eco-friendly products. In addition, these eco-sustainable practices improve the image of the publisher as they market their products to consumers who are concerned about the environment.
  
• The growing popularity of community-created content is impacting the trading card game industry through the creation of active online communities, including forums, social media, and live streaming platforms. This activity allows users to share gameplay strategies, offer assistance, and upload their own content to the community. The creation of these communities has created a greater sense of connection between players, which will encourage players to stay involved with trading card games for longer periods of time.
  

North America Trading Card Games Market Analysis

Based on product type, the trading card games industry is segmented into physical TCG and digital TCG. The physical TCG segment accounts for revenue of around USD 2.2 billion in the year 2025 and is expected to reach USD 4.7 billion by 2035.

• The physical TCG segment leads the market due a surge in demand for physical collectibles due to their tangibility and potential as an investment, collectors still seek the haptic experience of holding a physical card, as well as the opportunity to meet, trade and showcase their collections in person, as evidenced by brands like Pokémon and Magic: The Gathering.
  
• The U.S. Census Bureau and government agencies recognize the importance of local game shops and organized play locations in developing strong community bonds. These types of businesses provide a place where collectors can gather to trade cards, play games, attend tournaments and become certified as a player. For example, Wizards of the Coast, which creates Magic: The Gathering, partners with local retailers to create events that promote customer loyalty and contribute to the overall expansion of the market for Magic: The Gathering and other products.
  
• Scarcity and exclusivity are strong motivators for the physical TCG segment. Limited-edition releases and premium materials, such as holographic cards, provide a greater perceived value for physical TCGs. Companies such as The Pokémon Company have taken advantage of this by creating limited-edition special sets with lower print runs, providing opportunities for collectors and investors to find long-term growth potential and value appreciation through collecting physical cards.
  
• Technology has also played a major role in facilitating the growth of the physical TCG market. Companies like PSA, which offer certification services for card verification and grading, have increased the trust and confidence of consumers in the authenticity of products. Additionally, the emergence of the online marketplace for TCGs has enabled the ability to purchase products through means other than conventional retail stores.
  
• Thus the physical TCG segment will continue to grow due to the combination of the appeal of physical product, community-based infrastructure, and growth-focused efforts of the leading companies operating within this segment. Furthermore, with support from local businesses, associations with local governments, and innovative product offerings, it is expected that the TCG market in North America will continue to grow in the forecast period.
  

Based on the distribution channel, the North America trading card games market is bifurcated into online and offline sales channels. The offline segments held the largest share, accounting for 55.3% of the market in 2025.

• The offline distribution channel segment is emerging as the leading contributor, the U.S. Census Bureau recommends that the leading contributor to offline distribution channels is the specialty game store segment, where a large portion of the sales volume occurred in 2023 within offline distribution channels like specialty game shops, hobby/game stores, and tournaments. Many companies have used the opportunity to host events within these offline channels to engage with customers and encourage repeat purchases. One such example is Wizards of the Coast hosting regional events which allowed them to engage with customers live in-person.
  
• An important part of the TCG ecosystem is played by specialty game store segments, which provide locations for organized gaming, access to experts on gaming and products, and immediate access to products. According to the National Retail Federation, customers' in-store experience increased the likelihood of returning as customers by 25%, making them essential to market growth. An example is Konami, which organizes tournaments and sells Yu-Gi-Oh! products in specialty game stores, which are critical to maintaining the loyalty of the players and increasing sales of their products associated with Yu-Gi-Oh!.
  
• Walmart and Target are mass-market retailers that contributed to market expansion through the addition of TCG product shelf space. The U.S. Department of Commerce has indicated that mass-market retailers increase impulse buying by casual buyers and families. However, mass-market retailers do not usually stock premium or limited-edition products, maintaining the exclusive niche of specialty game stores.
  
• The recreation of Pokémon during 2021, in turn, contributed to the growth of offline sales through collaborative events with independent retailers. Partnerships between The Pokémon Company and independent retailers have led to increases in foot traffic and therefore, to the support of offline sales.
  
• Finally, due to the continued presence of offline sales and through the expansion of offline channels, future growth and expansion of the North America TCG Market will likely occur due to government sponsored programs in support of local businesses and the establishment of organized events. Furthermore, companies like Bandai have demonstrated their commitment to innovating through their promotional efforts in retail locations with their Dragon Ball Super Card Game to ensure continued interest in their product and therefore, to be able to expand their market.
  

U.S. Trading Card Games Market

In 2025, the U.S. dominated the market growth in North America, accounting for 80.5% of the share in the region.

• The U.S. market is expanding due to strong consumer spending on hobbies and collectibles, supported by government retail data showing a 10% rise in “Toys, Hobby & Games” sales over the past two years according to the U.S. Census Bureau. High disposable income and a growing collector culture have turned trading cards into both entertainment and investment assets.
  
• Additionally, the surge in organized play events, esports integration, and grading services has boosted engagement and secondary-market liquidity. Rare card auctions and digital platforms like eBay and PWCC have amplified demand, making TCGs a mainstream collectible category.
  

Canada Trading Card Games Market

Canada market was valued at around USD 0.5 billion in 2025 and is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 6.9% in the forecast period.

• Canada’s growth is driven by rising popularity of bilingual packaging, which improves accessibility across provinces and supports premium pricing. Increased adoption of grading services and blockchain-based digital cards has attracted tech-savvy collectors.
  
• Collaborations between major franchises and entertainment brands have expanded reach, while hobby stores and online platforms have strengthened distribution. These factors, combined with a growing middle-class interest in collectibles, fuel steady market expansion.
  

North America Trading Card Games Market Shares

The top companies in the North America trading card games industry include Pokemon, Bandai Namco, Hasbro, Square Enix and Tomy Co. Ltd. and collectively hold a share of 55.5% of the market in 2025. These prominent players are proactively involved in strategic endeavors, such as mergers & acquisitions, facility expansions & collaborations, to expand their product portfolios, extend their reach to a broad customer base, and strengthen their market position.

The Pokémon Company dominates the TCG market with its Pokémon Trading Card Game, one of the most popular globally. It drives engagement through frequent set releases, organized play programs, and major tournaments. Their strategy combines strong retail presence with digital integration, making Pokémon a leading brand for collectors and competitive players alike.

BandaiNamco operates a diverse TCG portfolio featuring titles like Dragon Ball Super, Digimon, and One Piece. They support the market through official events, regional tournaments, and hobby store partnerships. Their approach emphasizes anime-driven fandom and competitive play, appealing to both casual and hardcore collectors.

Hasbro focuses on casual collectible card games rather than traditional TCGs. Products like Monopoly Deal and Clue: The Card Game target family-friendly entertainment and mass-market retail channels. Their strategy prioritizes accessibility and brand recognition over competitive play, positioning Hasbro in the casual gaming segment.

North America Trading Card Games Market Companies

Major players operating in the North America trading card games industry are:

• Bandai Namco
• Bushiroad Inc.
• Fanatics/Topps
• Fantasy Flight
• Hasbro
• Kayou
• Konami
• Legend Story Studios
• Nintendo Co., Ltd.
• Panini S.p.A.
• Pokemon
• Ravensburger AG
• Square Enix
• Tomy Co. Ltd.
• Upper Deck Company
  

Square Enix offers the Final Fantasy trading card game, catering to fans of its iconic RPG franchise. The company organizes structured tournaments, regional championships, and promotional campaigns to build community engagement. Their TCG presence is niche but supported by strong brand loyalty and premium product design.

Tomy engages primarily through Japanese-origin TCGs such as Duel Masters and other anime-themed card games. In North America, their products are distributed via specialty hobby channels and import networks. They focus on collector-driven demand rather than large-scale organized play, maintaining a niche presence in the market.

North America Trading Card Games Industry News

• In January 2026, Bushiroad announced the “Palworld Official Card Game” with English editions. Organized play circuits will begin later in 2026, leading to a World Championship in 2027. This move expands Bushiroad’s portfolio beyond Vanguard and Weiss Schwarz. The announcement highlights Bushiroad’s strategy to tap into Palworld’s growing global fanbase.
  
• In January 2026, Upper Deck announced its “Debut Game Jersey Program” in partnership with the NHL. The program introduces rookie debut jersey swatch cards in the 2025–26 Extended Series. These inserts feature authentic first-game worn materials for premium collectors. It strengthens Upper Deck’s leadership in sports memorabilia innovation. The initiative targets hockey fans seeking unique, game-used collectibles.
  
• In January 2026, the Pokémon Company announced the release of Mega Evolution- Perfect Order. The expansion launches on March 2026, with prerelease events starting March 14. It introduces four new Mega Evolution Pokémon ex and themed battle mechanics. This set blends nostalgia with competitive depth for TCG enthusiasts. Pokémon continues to dominate the market with frequent, high-impact releases.
  
• In December 2025 Konami announced that the 300th Yu-Gi-Oh! Championship Series will be held in Richmond, VA. The event is scheduled for February 2026, featuring Advanced and Genesys formats. Side events and exclusive prizes will attract competitive and casual players alike. This milestone underscores Yu-Gi-Oh!’s enduring dominance in the TCG scene. New set releases will coincide with the event to boost engagement.
  
• In November 2025, Fantasy Flight Games announced a new core set for Arkham Horror: The Card Game. The core set arrives in Spring 2026, followed by expansions like “Children of Blood” in Summer. Additional releases include “Traces to Nowhere” in Fall, plus investigator decks. Organized play and accessories will support these launches. This plan reinforces FFG’s commitment to narrative-driven cooperative card gaming.
  

The North America trading card games market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry, with estimates & forecasts in terms of revenue (USD Billion) volume (Million Units) (from 2022 to 2035), for the following segments:

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Market, By Product Type

• Physical TCG
• Booster Packs
• Booster Boxes
• Starter Decks
• Collector/Premium Products
• Tins & Blister Packs
• Digital TCG

Market, By Franchise

• Pokémon
• Magic: The Gathering
• Yu-Gi-Oh!
• Anime/Manga TCGs
• Star Wars
• Others (Vanguard, etc.)

Market, By Price Range

• Economy (USD 3- USD 15)

• Mid-Tier (USD 15 - USD 50)

• Premium (USD 50 - USD 150)
• Ultra-Premium (Above USD 150)

Market, By Release Type

• Standard Sets
• Special/Limited Editions
• Promotional Products
• Reprints/Reissues

Market, By Consumer Group

• Players/Gamers
• Investors/Collector
• Children/Families

Market, By Distribution Channel

• Online
• E-commerce website
• Company owned website
• Offline
• Mass retail stores
• Specialty stores
• Others

The above information is provided for the following countries:

• U.S.
• Canada·