Although your Deck is far and away the most important thing you’ll need, there are plenty of other tools of the trade(ing cards). You won’t need to use all of these during every single Duel, but it’s best to come prepared. There’s nothing more awkward Duel-wise than relying on your opponent for having everything you need—he or she might be even less equipped than you are!

Side Deck: Tournaments are fought in Matches (which are won in a best 2-out-of-3 format), and since few Decks can go up against any strategy without augmentation, the Side Deck is your best friend. The Side Deck contains up to fifteen extra cards that you can swap for cards in your main Deck between Duels. Modding your strategy to suit your opponent can make all the difference.

Sleeves: Your cards are precious and valuable, so protect them with plastic sleeves. Sleeves come pretty cheap—some even have designs on the back. It’s a great way to personalize your look, but remember to use the same kind for every card you own, including the Extra Deck.

Duel Mat: Cloth and foam mats have come into vogue lately in the tournament scene. Not only do they give you the lay of the field, but good mats also usually have a cool design. Like the sleeves, mats are both useful as tools and help distinguish you as a player.

Point Recorder: Bring a pen and paper to record your Life Points. The tournament organizers are not responsible for materials to record your Duel, so make sure to not forget these essential items!

Coins: Coin flips are pretty common card effects: you or your opponent might need a coin-toss at any time. Likewise, you might need to put some tokens on the field: coins work great for that too!

Dice: All effects that rely on dice rolls make use of a six-sided die, so bring at least one of those. Also, if your deck uses Counters, dice with more than six sides work a lot better than piling up coins. Or using your memory (for shame!).

Know How To Shuffle: You’re not at a poker parlor, so don’t even think about using the typical “shotgun shuffle”. Instead, try for a good “overhand” or “Kenchi” shuffle since these won’t damage your cards nearly as easily. Have someone show you how to do one of these or find an instructional video online. It might take some practice, but your cards will thank you for it.  

And that's it! But the most important thing to bring to a tournament is...a good attitude! Have fun and happy Dueling! 

by Chris Turner