Building a collection is one of the most enjoyable parts of the Riftbound experience, but how you go about it can definitely make a difference to your wallet. After all, trading cards games can be an expensive hobby, especially if you're buying cards on a regular basis.
While purchasing singles directly will always be the best way to build a deck, there are ways to engage with the game that offer a fresh play experience in addition to acquiring cards. In this quick guide, we'll highlight some fun ways to build your Riftbound collection organically.
Attending official Riftbound events is easily one of the best ways to acquire more cards, regardless of your own experience level with the game. By visiting your local game store, you can sign up for regularly scheduled events, many of which are beginner friendly.
Playing at events will allow you to compete for various prizes such as regular booster packs and/or Nexus Night promo packs. There's also participation prizes too!
Note: We won't be covering all types of events here, but we'll focus on some popular examples.
Demo Days
Occasionally, stores may host a Demo Day to help introduce new players to the game. These events are completely free, allowing newcomers to learn and explore some of what Riftbound has to offer.
All cards are provided by the store/organizer, making it easy to show up and play without purchasing anything beforehand. And in the end, you may even be given something to take home with you.
Availability of these events will vary depending on the local store and community, but if it's something you're interested in, it never hurts to ask!
Pre-Rifts
Pre-Rift events (also commonly referred to as a "prerelease") take place right before a new set is released, giving players an early opportunity to play with the cards prior to launch.
Each participant is given a Pre-Rift Kit, which is a variant of the Sealed format. However, instead of opening only booster packs, players will also receive a seeded pack as a baseline for deck building.
It's a fun casual setting where everyone gets to learn and explore the set together. Win or lose, you'll always be walking away with the cards you opened, but there's always a chance for more.
Draft / Sealed Events
In addition to Pre-Rifts which only occur for a limited time, players can always look for Draft or Sealed events to experience more Limited gameplay. While Constructed play is the heart of the game, there's a lot of fun to be had in finding unique three Domain synergies.
Oftentimes the cost of these events is similar to what you would pay for the packs, so if you're in the mood to crack some open, you may as well play for prizes as well.
If you've got a group of friends who live nearby, you can also do this at home whenever you purchase enough packs (or a booster box). Even without prizes, you get still get additional fun play experience.
Nexus Nights
The most common type of event you'll find at your local game store are Nexus Nights. These can be a wide range of formats including 2v2, Multiplayer Free-For-All, or even Limited events (Draft or Sealed).
However, for the most part, it'll generally be Standard 1v1 Constructed. Building decks is a lot of fun, and Nexus Nights are your chance to showcase what you've put together.
While the level of competition can vary from store to store, the overall atmosphere is welcoming. Even with prizes on the line, these are still casual level events, so players are often open to accommodate newer players.
One of the highlights of playing regularly is receiving Nexus Night promo packs (often available for participation, not just winning!). These include some exclusive art versions of existing cards, including beautiful unique full-art Runes.
And if you're really lucky, you may even open a highly-coveted alternate art Champion.
Regional Events
It's no secret that Riftbound has some spectacular prizing at the top levels of play, but even at a casual level, there's a lot of goodies if you attend a Regional event.
Outside of the main tournament, regular admission players can compete in various side events, earning themselves tickets that can be spent at the prize wall. Whether you enjoy Constructed or Limited there's something for everyone, and this fully extends into Multiplayer as well.
The most popular prize wall choice by far are the highly desired metal Plated Legends (not to be confused with the best-of Foil Plated Legends). They're sought after by both players and collectors alike, making them the obvious stand out from these events. But keep in mind, the quantity is limited!
Note: The above example showcases the Foil Plated Legends, but both look similar.
In-Person Trading
In today's digital world, the act of trading cards can sometimes feel a bit lost to time. However, it's one of the best ways to connect with your community while simultaneously curating your collection.
If you've got a handful of cards you don't need, consider putting them into a binder and bringing it with you to events. That way, there's always a possibility you can trade (or sell) cards you don't need, while potentially acquiring the singles you're looking for.
Even if you aren't purchasing packs regularly, there's a good chance you'll have spare cards just from participating in local events. It's a great way to fund the hobby without further emptying your pockets!
Bulk Donations
Lastly, one other way you may acquire cards is by receiving them from other players free of charge. Some players open a considerable amount of booster boxes and have more than enough bulk they can handle. And so, oftentimes it'll find its way into the community.
Generally speaking, these are mostly Common cards with little to no value, but it could also include Uncommons and the occasional Rare. Either way, it can be extremely helpful to newer players with a limited amount of cards.
Of course, always be respectful to everyone in your community, and don't go asking for donations yourself. It'll come up naturally if it's available, and if it does, hopefully one day you can pay it forward. :)
