Harry Potter Trading Card Game

About this board game

Harry Potter Trading Card Game is a two-player collectible card game with an approximately 20-minute playing time, based on the Harry Potter novels written by J.K. Rowling.

Each player uses a 60-card deck led by a wizard or witch character card. The deck combines spells, creatures, items, and lesson cards, with lessons providing what is needed to put the other cards into play.

Damage to a character is tracked by discarding cards from the draw deck. This creates a direct link between taking damage and the cards available to a player, making the deck an important part of both play and survival.

Spells and creatures deal damage during the game. Their effects can be directed at opposing creatures or aimed directly at the other player’s character, giving players different ways to pressure their opponent.

• Players: 2
• Playing time: 20 minutes
• Deck format: 60 cards per player, led by a character card
• Card types: spells, creatures, items, and lessons
• Release year: 2001

The game includes a Base Set and four expansions: Quidditch Cup, Diagon Alley, Adventures at Hogwarts, and Chamber of Secrets. These releases expand the Harry Potter Trading Card Game line with additional collectible card content.

The first player to run out of cards loses. The game was discontinued as of 2002, making its compact, character-led card battles part of the history of Harry Potter tabletop gaming.