It’s a new HoMM: Card game TCG or ECG? What’s the Difference?

What Is a TCG (Trading Card Game) and how does it work?

A Trading Card Game, also known as a Collectible Card Game (CCG), is a format that focuses on collectibility, enables deck-building freedom, and offers randomized packs with cards. That is usually the most appealing feature to people—because in a TCG, players acquire cards through starter decks and booster packs, which contain a random assortment of cards.

Some are common, some are rare, and there’s always an element of surprise. Usually, players have minimal to no certainty about what they will find in a pack. They can trade (hence the name) with each other to exchange cards that they don’t like, and for rarer cards, they can even hope to monetize and sell them to willing buyers.

These types of games usually have a very dynamic playthrough meta, which sometimes focuses on the most recent pack releases. And don’t forget – the excitement while opening a new pack is irreplaceable!

TCG card game key features:

• Booster packs with random cards
• Active secondary market and trading
• Ever-evolving game meta
• Strong replayability through deck experimentation

What Is an ECG (Expandable Card Game) and how does it work?

An Expandable Card Game (sometimes called a Living Card Game) offers fixed expansions instead of randomized boosters. Every player who buys an expansion gets the same set of cards—there are no surprises here!

This format appeals to players who prefer predictability, balanced play, and narrative-driven experiences. It can also be cost-effective, as prices of available cards usually remain stable due to wide availability of the cards. The meta play for this type of card games is still interesting, as players can mix and match their deck as they please, which also means these kinds of games tend to be more balanced.

Usually, in TCGs higher rarity cards also have stronger properties in play—in order to give players an incentive to actively look for them. In an ECG, there is no such thing as spending a lot of money to get the most powerful cards, so this format tends to be more budget-friendly.

Despite that, ECG games are still dynamic and interesting – with the release of new expansion packs, players can experience meta shifts, game novelty, and new content, just like in TCG games.

ECG card game key features:

• Fixed, non-random expansions
• Easier on the wallet and more accessible
• Focus on fairness and completeness
• Often suited for cooperative or campaign play

Magical and Strategic ECG – Heroes of Might and Magic: The Card Game 

One notable expandable card game example is our second upcoming title that we announced earlier this year – Heroes of Might and Magic: The Card Game. This card game is deeply rooted in the beloved HoMM universe—and built from the ground up as an ECG.

Players collect cards representing powerful Heroes, mystical spells, mythical creatures, and legendary artifacts to build unique decks tailored to their faction and strategy. The game will feature multiple expansions in the future, so the gameplay will stay dynamic, engaging, and fun.

Some legendary heroes and creatures from this iconic universe will receive premium-looking cards with glorious effects!

 What you can expect:

• The HoMM universe is rich in design variety—ideal for a high-end ECG
• Deck diversity reflects strategic gameplay from the original games
• Themed packs create excitement and are inviting for expandable card game lovers

TCG vs ECG: Which Format Is Right for You?

So, how to choose between TCG and ECG based on your playstyle? At this stage we know what are Tradeable Card Games, we also know what are Expandable Card Games – now, let’s compare the TCG and ECG features side-by-side! You can take a look at these feature comparisons and decide which game type is right for you.

Card Acquisition

TCG: Comes in random booster packs — the thrill of opening unknown cards.
ECG: Uses fixed expansion packs, so you know exactly what you’re getting.

Deckbuilding Potential

TCG: Offers deep customization and ever-changing metas.
ECG: More balanced but with limited options for deck construction.

Collectibility

TCG: A strong focus on rare cards and trading culture.
ECG: Minimal collectibility; gameplay is prioritized over card rarity.

Budget Control

TCG: Costs can vary widely and become expensive over time.
ECG: Predictable pricing makes it easier to budget.

Game Style

TCG: Competitive and varied—ideal for tournaments and ranked play.
ECG: Often cooperative or story-driven, better for immersive experiences.

Final Summary: Two Formats, Endless Possibilities

Both Trading Card Games (TCGs) and Expandable Card Games (ECGs) offer unique strengths that appeal to different kinds of players. TCGs bring excitement for the unknown, collectibility, and evolving metas through booster packs and trading. ECGs, on the other hand, focus on predictability, balance, and accessibility through fixed expansions.