Sometimes it takes more than cards to play Yu-Gi-Oh! Depending on your style, you may want to pack a little extra gear, especially for the big leagues. Sounds like an extra hassle? It isn’t. You can find most of what you need around the house, so take some time to show your opponents just how ready you are!

Do the Math
Tournaments provide pens and paper to keep score, but bringing a calculator to save time never hurts. Also check out some of the available calculator apps for your phone.

Token of Our Esteem
Tokens and Counters are everywhere, so always come supplied. These shouldn’t be fancy—paperclips, pennies, anything you can switch to Attack or Defense works fine. Bring as many as you need, and maybe a few extra just in case your opponent’s not as ready as you are.

The Dice, You Say?
If you’ve got coin flip or dice roll cards in your Deck, then bring a coin for tossing and dice for rolling. You don’t want to stop the game just to hunt down someone else’s gear, right?

Returning Customers
The sweet COSSY ranking system keeps track of your tournament status. Every win bumps you a little closer to the Top 1000. Also remember that you’ll need your ID at some events just to get in the door. Bring it with you to every tournament to prove just how awesome you are!

Switching Gears

If you’re ready to get serious about Dueling, here are some items that’ll help keep your cards safe and clean… and maybe give your Deck a more personal touch.

Something Up Your Card Sleeves
Sleeves keep cards safe against the elements (and soft-drinks), along with covering up existing damage. Many even sport a unique backing design to set your cards apart!

Deck-Boxing Match
When your pocket isn’t good enough, a Deck Box can keep your Deck protected. These also have unique designs, so find one that’s right for you.

Laying Out The Field
Game Mats display the Field’s geography and come in a lot of styles. If nothing else, try a paper mat from a store-bought Deck.

Now that you've got the basics down, go out there, find a local tournament, and DUEL!

Related Links:
Cards
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.