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How to Get Started in the Hobby
The first whistle has blown, and you’re ready to build your Collection. In Europe, the variety of Packs can feel like a tactical nightmare, but the secret is to start small. Whether you’re a die-hard for the Premier League, Bundesliga, or the Champions League, there’s a product with your name on it.
Retail vs. Hobby: You’ll see Retail products in supermarkets or newsagents (think Blaster Boxes or Fat Packs). They’re a great “low-stakes” entry. Hobby Boxes, found in specialist shops, cost more but usually guarantee Hits—the industry term for massive finds like Autographs or Memorabilia cards (featuring actual swatches of Match-Worn shirts).
The Power of the Single: A rookie mistake is “ripping” (opening) endless packs to find one specific player. While the Rip is a rush, if you just want a Jude Bellingham or Lamine Yamal, it’s often cheaper to buy that Single card from a trusted seller.
Shop Smart: Before you splash the cash, check our guide on Online Marketplaces to see where the community shops safely.
In this hobby, “Licenses” are everything. It means a brand has the exclusive right to show official Crests, Kits, and League Logos. Here are the heavy hitters:
Topps: The European giant. They are the official partners for the UEFA Champions League, Europa League, and the German Bundesliga. Look out for Topps Chrome (the shiny, premium stuff) and the classic Match Attax.
Panini: Famous for stickers but a powerhouse for High-End cards. They hold the English Premier League and FIFA World Cup licenses. Brands like Prizm and Select are world-famous for their colourful Parallels.
DAKA: A rising star in the global market. They produce high-quality, Officially Licensed sets for giants like FC Barcelona, Real Madrid, and AC Milan.
Futera: A boutique, luxury company. They focus on tiny Print Runs, 1-of-1 cards, and unique Memorabilia featuring the “Greats” of the game.
Licensed vs. Unlicensed: Don’t be fooled! Licensed cards show the official kits. Unlicensed cards might have the players, but the logos are airbrushed out or the shirts are plain. These rarely hold their Resale Value as well as official products, so always look for the official Hologram on the box.
As a new collector, it’s vital to distinguish between Licensed and Unlicensed cards.
Licensed cards (like Topps, Panini, and DAKA) have the rights to use official team logos and kits.
Unlicensed cards (often from smaller, independent brands) may feature your favorite players, but the team logos will be airbrushed out, or the players will be wearing “plain” jerseys.
Sometimes, beautiful designs on unlicensed cards can “fool” new collectors into thinking they are premium official releases. While they can be lovely to look at, unlicensed cards typically do not hold their value nearly as well as official products on the secondary market. Always check for the official league or club hologram on the box!
Tier 1: Panini & Topps: These are the undisputed giants of the hobby. Both companies produce a massive range of products, meaning there is something for every type of collector. They offer everything from Entry-Level TCG cards (like Match Attax or Adrenalyn XL) to Mid-Range Chrome sets, all the way up to Premium High-End boxes that cost thousands of euros. Because they hold the most prestigious licenses, their cards—especially Prizm, Select, and Topps Chrome- are widely considered as top picks for most collectors.
Tier 2: DAKA & Futera: DAKA is the rising star for club-specific collectors, offering beautifully licensed sets for giants like Real Madrid and Barcelona. Futera remains the king of “Boutique Luxury,” known for high-end finishes and extremely rare memorabilia.
Tier 3: Leaf & Independent Brands: These companies often produce unlicensed cards. While the lack of official logos can impact the long-term value of the “base” cards, they often include high-quality, authentic autographs from legends at a more accessible price point than Tier 1 brands.
