Deck-Types: Crackdown on Decking

It’s not always Life Points that decides victory in the Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG. It also comes down to exactly what you’re playing with: the cards themselves. No cards equals end of game. If you hit a Draw Phase with an empty Deck, you lose automatically. Bummer, right? But what if you forced your opponent to run out early? That would be the “Deck-Out” strategy—one of the deadliest maneuvers known to Duelist-kind.

Clear the Deck
There are many paths to an empty Deck. The best effects for this type of strategy are ones that make your opponent send cards in his Deck to the Graveyard, but don’t underestimate forced draws either! Sure, you’re feeding your opponent's hand, but you’re also bleeding their Deck. And if you can add hand destruction strategies to the mix, then it’s time to start practicing your evil laugh!

All Hands On Deck
If you are running this strategy, make sure to feed your defense. Your strategy backs your opponent into a corner by definition, so sap as many of his options as possible. Set high DEF (or indestructible) monsters and try for attack-paralyzing Effects. Above all, always keep your Life Points safe.

One Duelist’s Trash Is Another’s Treasure
Although no card can save a completely "decked" opponent, some Deck archetypes require full Graveyards. ∫, for example, along with Dark World and some Banish Decks are strongest right before they tap their Deck out, so step up your game pronto! Also go light on effects that Deck both players – overdose and you’ll run out yourself!

Try This!

Their Pain, Your Gain
If you choose the offensive instead, try profiting from the situation. Like with the above examples, a full Graveyard can beef up a Beatdown. But always make sure that both strategies can directly support each other!

Other Cards

Morphing Jar #1 - Both players discard their hands and draw five new cards. Yoink!
Card Destruction - Like Morphing Jar, both players discard their hands… but must draw as many as they discarded. Timing is crucial for this one!
Dark Bribe – Negate a Spell or Trap’s effect and force your opponent to draw.

For more information about the Yu-Gi-Oh! Trading Card Game, visit Konami's official site today!

Related Links:
Cards
Deck-Building Blocks
Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG Official Site

by Chris Turner

About Chris Turner
A casual duelist and former Viz Media intern, Chris has ascended the ranks and now writes for us as a freelancer.