[uvaspina]

This is kind of an off-the-wall question, but has Topps (or others) ever tried doing a Magic the Gathering or Yu-Gi-Oh-style baseball card game? Is it possible for the concept to even work? --I ask this from a point of almost total ignorance, being only vaguely familiar with those trading card games. From what I understand, you assemble a team/collection with different powers/spells/abilities and face off against other players' teams/collections.

Topps has tried some new things in recent years (most notably, Bunt, which seems to be pretty popular). Is there a way to create a fantasy-type game with baseball cards? Although I've never been interested in MTG/Y-G-O, I know that--aside from the game-play component--the cards themselves can be quite collectible. It seems like it might be cool for kids and adult players/collectors.

Thoughts?

[djohn]

There have been several card games throughout the years, even dating back into vintage. The problem has been that there has never been a solid enough following to keep it going for very long.

[jack pfiester]

Yes several including 1995 Donruss Top of the Order, MLB Showdown, Topps Attax, etc. Baseball cards are meant for collecting, not playing games!

[zeprock]

Topps' very first set in 1951 was designed to be a game.

I think Topps Attax was Topps' most recent attempt at a card game.

[jplarson]

MLB Showdown

I loved MLB Showdown! My brother and I played a ton of it, to the point where we wound up bringing the play mat to a local shop to get laminated.

[jumper4d8]

I haven't played any of the games but I do have Top of the Order, MLB Showdown and Topps Attax Griffey cards in my collection.

[bengalsandreds]

The back of 1978 Topps also has a game on it. And I believe 1996 Collectors Choice also has a game subset, although I could be wrong on the year.