Collectible Games

Collectible or 'living' games are a subset of tabletop games.  They differ from standard games in two ways:

- Distribution: You can't buy the entire game in one package.  Rather, you purchase randomized packs (or known individual units) to add to your collection.
- Preparation: You must assemble a squad (or a deck) before a game can occur.

The preparation aspect means customization- you can make it your own- which is a big reason why the genre is so popular.  It's addicting, and people often build monster collections (here's how to store/organize your collection).  If you're interested in an overview, here's the transcript of a five-minute talk I did on these games and their value.  Scrye magazine was a nice resource for the myriad games that have been produced (this checklist book has a comprehensive list).  I have many fond memories playing this genre of games.

Collectible and living games share most of the aforementioned traits. Living games, produced by Fantasy Flight, eliminate the blind buy/randomized aspect. Instead, living games are sold in known units—when you purchase a given release, you know exactly what you're getting.

I've reviewed the below collectible/living games. The first set is collectible, the second living. Within each, games are presented in no real order (click on an image for the associated review).  

Those new to but interested in this genre would do well to play with a friend's collection before you make an investment.  Magic: The Gathering is probably the most well-known game of this sort, and a good place to start (it's also the best collectible game out there). CCGs may be making a comeback of sorts, too. 

Speaking of Magic, I've done a number of posts on just that game and now maintain a separate blog dedicated to it:
Building a Magic deck (and lessons from a failed attempt)
Important Magic cards and online resources and formats
This history of Magic was a good read; this Netflix documentary is less so but mildly interesting.

Collectible Card/Miniature/Dice Games:

Living Card/Miniature Games (no blind buy):