So everyone, I'd like your opinion on the easiest way to get started collecting. Obviously I've missed out on the first three so I can either dish out a decent amount of cash for a good collection to buy, or attempt to buy boxes of booster packs. The question is, which way do you feel would be the best way to try and get a more complete collection.

I'm torn between buying a big collection of cards or buying two of each booster box to start. Any thoughts?

Ahoy! I hope my advice will be able to help somewhat.

As you may or may not know, there will be a whole new set comin out in a week or so (don't quote me on this.. long, laughable story if you read through the forums).

What I would suggest is to go out 'n buy a starter deck from the first set (is in a grey box) 'n a starter set from the newest set (whenever it gets released). Then, (hear me out) I would suggest goin about 'n buyin at least 3-4 packs of each set (1-4). This will give you a decent amount of cards, 'n a great startin point.

Total cost would be around $90 or so (dependin on where 'n when you get them), but here's the deal: You don't have to do it all at once, let alone at all. Is just an idea on how to get fired up into it.

Take a gander at the card lists that are online, 'n each individual card, if possible (I'm certain someone out there has posted each card 'n effect somewhere). The more interested in a card(s) you are, lean towards buyin more of that set (such as Set 1: Bambis, Oathkeepers, 'n Simbas; Set 2: Jacks, Soul Eaters, 'n Destiny Islands; Set 3: Phils, Kings, 'n Ultima Weapons; Set 4: Aurons, Petes, 'n Event cards...etc... whatever catches your interests). Just know that there are certain cards that are SRU (Super Rare Uncommon) which you'll find once per about 6-7 packs (granted they aren't mess'd with in the box or shelf, that is..) 'n some of them are really great staple cards (King Triton, Sephiroth, Cloud, the King... to name a few).

All in all, you'll want a rulebook. Study it, understand it, 'n find a method that works for you (you a World Runner, or Aggro, or a Jack of all Trades player?). Then, seek out the cards that will help you obtain your goal (certain worlds, certain attack cards, certain sets) 'n pack them in together into a deck. Highly recommended to keep your deck at 41 cards (player card included!), but mess around a bit to see where to go from there.

Also, (if you hadn't noted) we've a Comprehensive Questionaire Guide in the Rules Section, which we've ask'd countless questions on how a card is play'd 'n such. Do feel free to ask away if you've a question or two bout the cards, aye?

I think I've ramble'd enough. Hope it help'd some!