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Today in History: Magic: The Gathering Launches as First Trading Card Game

8/5/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On August 5, 1993, Wizards of the Coast launched Magic: The Gathering, the first trading card game. Created by Richard Garfield, it combined strategic deck-building with collectible elements, revolutionizing gaming. By February 2023, it boasted around fifty million players and generated over $1 billion in annual revenue, solidifying its status in the gaming industry.

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Story summary

On August 5, 1993, Wizards of the Coast launched Magic: The Gathering, the first trading card game. Created by Richard Garfield, it combined strategic deck-building with collectible elements, revolutionizing gaming. By February 2023, it boasted around fifty million players and generated over $1 billion in annual revenue, solidifying its status in the gaming industry.