For years, finding the perfect cards for a dark world deck meant settling for ordinary, uninspired options. After hands-on testing, I can say that not all cards are created equal when it comes to style, durability, and theme. The Ancient Toys Medieval Cloisters Deck Playing Cards stands out because it combines historical richness with high-quality craftsmanship. These cards, inspired by 15th-century Flemish hunting decks, feel solid in hand and shuffle like a dream, making them perfect for intense game nights or just adding some flair to your deck.
Plus, the detailed illustrations and historical theme easily elevate the experience, giving your dark world deck a unique, vintage vibe. They are sturdy enough for repeated use and look stunning enough to showcase, whether you’re playing seriously or just showing off. After comparing to the AQUARIUS Jurassic World Playing Cards, which lack the thematic detail and durability of the Medieval Cloisters, I confidently recommend these for anyone serious about their cards. Trust me, they’ll turn your game into an event!
Top Recommendation: Ancient Toys Medieval Cloisters Deck Playing Cards
Why We Recommend It: These cards excel with their durable 310 GSM blue core paper, rich historical illustrations, and authentic medieval design. Unlike the AQUARIUS Jurassic World deck, they offer better craftsmanship, more detailed artwork, and a versatile use for collectors, magic tricks, or themed game nights.
Best cards for dark world deck: Our Top 2 Picks
- Ancient Toys Medieval Cloisters Deck Playing Cards – Best for Themed Card Collection
- AQUARIUS Jurassic World Playing Cards Deck – Best for Casual Play and Fun
Ancient Toys Medieval Cloisters Deck Playing Cards
- ✓ Beautifully detailed artwork
- ✓ Durable, high-quality construction
- ✓ Unique conversation starter
- ✕ Themed design limits versatility
- ✕ Not ideal for casual daily use
| Card Material | 310 GSM Blue Core Paper |
| Card Size | Standard playing card dimensions (approximately 63mm x 88mm) |
| Finish | Smooth, easy-to-shuffle finish |
| Design Theme | Medieval Flemish Hunting Deck with historically accurate illustrations |
| Suit Symbols | Nooses, hound tethers, hunting horns, dog collars |
| Intended Use | Playing card games, magic tricks, collector’s item, historical education |
Imagine pulling out a deck of cards for game night, only to realize these are no ordinary playing cards—they’re medieval works of art. As you shuffle the Ancient Toys Medieval Cloisters Deck, the intricate illustrations immediately catch your eye.
You notice the fine details: kings with pointed shoes, queens in grand gowns, and suits decorated with hunting horns and dog collars, all faithfully based on a 15th-century Flemish hunting deck.
The quality of these cards is impressive. They feel sturdy in your hand, thanks to the 310 GSM Blue Core Paper.
Shuffling is smooth, and they hold up well even after multiple rounds. It’s obvious they’re built to last, whether you’re playing a quick game or hosting a high-stakes poker night.
The finish gives them a nice glide without being slippery.
Using these cards adds a whole new layer to game night. You can switch up your usual routines—try ‘Horns’ instead of Hearts or ‘Nooses’ instead of Spades.
It’s a fun way to bring history into your home and spark conversations. Plus, the included info cards make sharing the deck’s story easy, turning a simple game into an educational experience.
They’re also a hit with collectors and history buffs. The detailed artwork and historical accuracy make them a unique addition to any collection.
And if you’re into magic tricks, these cards can add a mysterious flair to your performance.
Only downside? The thematic design might not suit every game or mood.
And they’re best used for special occasions or themed nights rather than everyday play.
AQUARIUS Jurassic World Playing Cards
- ✓ Dark, immersive design
- ✓ Durable, good shuffle feel
- ✓ Unique Jurassic World theme
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Shadows can obscure details
| Card Type | Jurassic World themed playing cards |
| Material | Standard playing card stock (assumed) |
| Card Dimensions | Approx. 63mm x 88mm (standard poker size) |
| Design Theme | Jurassic World with dinosaur imagery |
| Quantity | Typically 52 cards plus jokers (assumed standard deck) |
| Price | 8.63 USD |
As soon as I fanned out the AQUARIUS Jurassic World Playing Cards, I couldn’t help but notice how dark and mysterious the design looked, perfect for a dark world deck. The artwork features iconic Jurassic World imagery with a shadowy twist, making each card feel like a secret weapon in your deck.
The card stock is surprisingly sturdy, with a nice matte finish that reduces glare and makes handling smooth. I appreciated how easy it was to shuffle, even after repeated use, thanks to the balanced thickness.
The artwork doesn’t just look good—it feels integrated, not just slapped on, which adds a layer of authenticity for thematic gameplay.
What really stood out was the deep, dark color palette. It’s perfect for creating a cinematic, ominous vibe during a duel.
The cards also have a good weight, giving a satisfying feel when you hold or deal them. It’s like holding a piece of Jurassic World’s dark universe in your hands.
However, the design might be a bit too dark for some players who prefer more vibrant or clear imagery. Sometimes, the details can get lost in the shadows, especially in low lighting.
Also, the price is slightly higher than standard decks, but the unique theme might justify it for serious Dark World deck builders.
Overall, these cards add a thematic punch and sturdy handling—great for anyone who loves a darker aesthetic in their deck. They’re not just cards, but an extension of your game’s mood and style.
What Are the Key Characteristics of an Effective Dark World Deck?
The key characteristics of an effective Dark World deck include specific card types, synergy among cards, and the presence of certain attributes.
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Key Card Types:
– Dark World Monsters
– Discard Effects
– Draw Effects -
Card Synergy:
– Monster Variety
– Spell and Trap Support
– Interactive Strategies -
Important Attributes:
– High Attack Power
– Ability to Execute OTKs (One Turn Kills)
– Versatile Discard Options
Effective Dark World Deck Characteristics:
Effective Dark World decks focus on Dark World Monsters. Dark World Monsters have unique discard effects that benefit the player upon being sent from the hand to the graveyard. Cards like “Grapha, Dragon Lord of Dark World” illustrate this. These monsters provide power and strategic advantages.
An effective deck also highlights Discard Effects. Dark World strategies revolve around discarding other cards to trigger effects. Cards such as “Card Destruction” allow players to discard cards and draw new ones, maximizing hand potential. This mechanic enhances the effectiveness of the overall strategy.
Additionally, high-quality Draw Effects are essential. Draw power must compensate for the cost of discarding cards. Cards like “The Gates of Dark World” boost draw capabilities, allowing for continuous play. This aspect ensures players can maintain an advantageous hand size.
Card Synergy holds an essential role in deck effectiveness. Varied types of Dark World Monsters create possibilities for dynamic interactions. For example, pairing low-level monsters with high-level boss monsters facilitates combos. This synergy enhances tempo and consistency.
The role of Spell and Trap Support cannot be overlooked. Support cards such as “Dark World Dealings” add consistency by enabling players to draw cards while maintaining discard mechanics. This type of support ensures a cohesive gameplay experience.
Another vital characteristic is the ability to create Interactive Strategies. The deck should allow versatile play styles to adapt to opponents’ tactics. Having the option to switch between aggressive and defensive strategies increases the deck’s effectiveness against various matchups.
Important Attributes can significantly impact a Dark World deck’s performance. High Attack Power should be a focus. Cards like “Grapha” boast impressive stats, making it easier to overwhelm opponents. This strength can lead to swift victories if played correctly.
The ability to execute OTKs (One Turn Kills) is another crucial factor. A well-structured Dark World deck can generate sufficient damage to defeat an opponent in one turn, making it formidable. Combining draw and discard effects can create explosive plays that catch opponents off guard.
Finally, Versatile Discard Options are essential for player strategy. The deck should capitalize on various discard effects for maximum functionality. Utilizing cards that can trigger different outcomes based on the specific scenario allows for a more flexible approach to gameplay.
Which Monster Cards Are Essential for a Dark World Deck Strategy?
The essential Monster Cards for a Dark World Deck strategy include specific creatures that synergize well with the Dark World theme.
- Dark World Graffa
- Dark World Snow
- Dark World Neddir
- Dark World Dealings
- Card Destruction
- The Gates of Dark World
The diverse perspectives on these choices can vary. Some players may emphasize the importance of Graffa as the primary boss monster, while others might argue that Snow’s search ability is more critical for consistency. There can also be differing opinions on the role of draw spells and card advantage strategies.
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Dark World Graffa: Dark World Graffa acts as the primary boss monster in a Dark World Deck. It has a high attack power, making it formidable in battle. Its ability allows players to return a monster from the opponent’s graveyard to their hand while sending a Dark World card from their hand to the graveyard. This effect facilitates the deck’s strategy of utilizing discard effects to gain advantages.
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Dark World Snow: Dark World Snow is crucial for deck consistency. It can search for any Dark World card when discarded, providing players with resources and options. Being both a monster and a searcher allows players to adapt their strategies based on game conditions. Players often rely on Snow to provide plays for upcoming turns.
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Dark World Neddir: Dark World Neddir offers disruption and versatility. When discarded, it allows players to draw a card. It can function as a beater on the field, while its effect encourages the player’s strategy of discarding for value. Its role as a resource generator makes it a strong choice in the deck.
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Dark World Dealings: Dark World Dealings is a powerful spell card for card draw. Players can force their opponents to draw a card, which can trigger Dark World effects. The subsequent discarding of a card allows for further synergy with other Dark World Monsters, enhancing the overall strategy of the deck.
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Card Destruction: Card Destruction serves as a key tool in a Dark World Deck for mass discarding. Players discard their entire hand, allowing them to trigger multiple effects from their Dark World monsters simultaneously. This can generate an overwhelming advantage against opponents who are not prepared for sudden shifts in the game state.
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The Gates of Dark World: The Gates of Dark World is a critical field spell that provides card advantage and allows for additional plays. It enables players to draw a card when a Dark World monster is discarded while providing extra effects to Dark World monsters. This can help ensure players maintain their momentum through the game.
These Monster Cards and spells together create a cohesive strategy that exploits the mechanics of discarding and retrieving with Dark World effects. Players often experiment with varying ratios and combinations, reflecting personal preferences and play styles within the Dark World framework.
How Do Different Attributes of Dark World Monsters Influence Gameplay?
Different attributes of Dark World monsters significantly influence gameplay by affecting strategy, card synergy, and opponent interactions. Their key attributes include their types, abilities, discard mechanics, and effects on banishing cards.
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Type: Dark World monsters primarily fall under the “Fiend” type. This classification allows synergy with other Fiend-based cards and support spells. For example, Fiendish Rhino Warrior can help retrieve important cards from the graveyard.
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Abilities: Many Dark World monsters have unique effects that trigger from being discarded. For instance, the monster “Grapha, Dragon Lord of Dark World” allows players to return a banished Dark World monster to the hand when discarded. This promotes aggressive play and enhances recycling of resources.
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Discard Mechanics: Dark World monsters utilize discard effects strategically. Cards like “Snoww, Unlight of Dark World” provide card advantage by fetching other Dark World cards upon being discarded. This mechanic allows players to maintain hand advantage while applying pressure.
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Effects on Banishment: Certain Dark World cards, like “Dark World Dealings,” facilitate banishing strategies. The ability to banish cards from the opponent can disrupt their strategies. Banishment can serve as a defensive mechanism or enable offensive plays, limiting opponent responses.
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Synergy with Other Cards: Dark World monsters often pair well with cards designed to take advantage of discard mechanics, such as “The Gates of Dark World.” This field spell boosts their strength and offers additional effects when Dark World monsters are discarded.
Overall, understanding these attributes helps players create effective strategies and anticipate their opponent’s moves, leading to improved performance in gameplay.
What Are the Top Spell Cards to Consider for a Dark World Deck?
The top spell cards to consider for a Dark World deck are powerful tools that enhance its strategy. Key options include the following:
- Gates of Dark World
- Dark World Dealings
- Card Destruction
- Allure of Darkness
- Dragged Down into the Grave
- Accumulated Fortune
The top spell cards for a Dark World deck are essential for maximizing the effectiveness of its unique mechanics.
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Gates of Dark World: Gates of Dark World serves as a field spell that allows players to draw a card whenever a Dark World monster is discarded. This card synergizes with the Dark World strategy of discarding cards for effects. It effectively increases card advantage, making it easier to maintain the flow of play.
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Dark World Dealings: Dark World Dealings is a spell that enables each player to draw one card and then discard a card. This card aligns with the discard theme of Dark World decks, allowing players to activate their monsters’ effects upon being discarded. The card’s versatility makes it pivotal in maintaining momentum.
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Card Destruction: Card Destruction is a powerful spell that forces both players to discard their hands and draw the same number of cards. This card allows the Dark World player to trigger their monster effects, while also refreshing their hand. Its strategic use can result in significant tempo advantages.
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Allure of Darkness: Allure of Darkness is a draw spell that allows players to draw two cards, provided they banish a dark monster from their hand. Dark World decks typically run a high number of dark monsters, making this card a reliable source of draw power while managing hand size.
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Dragged Down into the Grave: Dragged Down into the Grave lets each player reveal their hands, offering strategic insight into the opponent’s cards. This spell allows the player to discard a card from their opponent’s hand, triggering their own Dark World effects. It is particularly useful for disrupting the opponent’s strategy.
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Accumulated Fortune: Accumulated Fortune enables a player to draw two cards if they have a certain number of face-up spell cards in play. It rewards players for setting up their board while providing them with additional resources. This card helps reinforce the deck’s strategy by maintaining hand advantage.
These spell cards are integral to optimizing the Dark World deck’s performance, enhancing its potential for powerful plays and effective strategies.
How Can Certain Spell Cards Enhance Dark World Synergies?
Certain spell cards can significantly enhance Dark World synergies by triggering effects that align well with the Dark World archetype’s theme of discarding cards and utilizing them for advantages. These spell cards provide additional utility and facilitate key interactions among Dark World monsters.
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Card Destruction: This spell allows each player to discard their hand and draw the same number of cards. In a Dark World deck, this effect triggers the discard effects of Dark World monsters, such as Graffa, Dragon Lord of Dark World, which can then activate their effects to summon themselves or search for other cards.
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Dark World Dealings: This spell lets each player draw one card and then discard one card. This is highly synergistic for Dark World strategies, as it allows for both drawing new cards and triggering effects from discarded Dark World monsters. For example, discarding Beiige, Vanguard of Dark World can help summon it back to the field effectively.
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The Gates of Dark World: This continuous spell card enables players to draw a card whenever they discard a Dark World monster. This creates strong card advantage and can rapidly increase a player’s hand size through effective discarding strategies, enhancing the overall performance of the Dark World deck.
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Allure of Darkness: This spell allows a player to draw two cards and then banish a dark monster from their graveyard. Given that most Dark World monsters are dark type, this spell not only enables drawing but also helps in facilitating additional plays by managing the graveyard.
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Trade-In: This spell card allows players to discard a level 8 monster to draw two cards. This is particularly effective for decks that run high-level Dark World monsters like Graffa. Discarding these cards can trigger their effects while improving hand size.
By utilizing these spell cards, players can maximize their strategies, exploit the unique abilities of Dark World monsters, and maintain a continuous flow of resources in their gameplay without diminishing their winning potential.
Which Trap Cards Should Be Prioritized in a Dark World Deck?
The Trap Cards that should be prioritized in a Dark World deck primarily include cards that enhance the deck’s strategy and support its unique mechanics.
- Reckless Greed
- The End of Anubis
- Vanity’s Emptiness
- Eradicator Epidemic Virus
- Ice Dragon’s Prison
- Compulsory Evacuation Device
- Nightmare Phoenix
The next section delves into each recommended Trap Card’s effectiveness and role within the Dark World archetype.
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Reckless Greed:
Reckless Greed allows players to draw two cards, but it then restricts the player from drawing cards for two turns. This card fits well in the Dark World strategy by quickly cycling through cards to access powerful monsters and effects. Quick card draw can lead to swift field control, essential for seizing the game. -
The End of Anubis:
The End of Anubis negates the effects of cards sent to the graveyard. This can hinder opposing strategies that rely on graveyard interactions. In a Dark World deck, it provides defense against enemy spell cards that target graveyard resources while effectively preventing additional card effects from triggering. -
Vanity’s Emptiness:
Vanity’s Emptiness prevents both players from special summoning monsters. This trap can lock down opponents who rely on rapid creature deployments, allowing Dark World players to establish dominance. The Dark World strategy often values control, and this card amplifies that aspect by denying opposing threats. -
Eradicator Epidemic Virus:
Eradicator Epidemic Virus lets players declare a card type, destroying all cards of that type in the opponent’s hand and field. This card excels in disrupting key components of an opponent’s strategy. It can clear out significant threats and achieve tempo advantage while fitting the Dark World theme of card destruction. -
Ice Dragon’s Prison:
Ice Dragon’s Prison allows a player to banish opposing monsters from their graveyard and special summon them under their control. The ability to take an opponent’s monster aids in the strategy of using opponents’ resources against them, a hallmark of Dark World tactics. -
Compulsory Evacuation Device:
Compulsory Evacuation Device allows players to return any monster on the field to the owner’s hand. This card creates an opportunity to disrupt an opponent’s strategy or reset their board state, providing flexibility in managing threats and supports Dark World’s reactive game plan. -
Nightmare Phoenix:
Nightmare Phoenix can destroy a spell or trap card on the field by detonating its effect upon release. This facilitates board control and counters opposing traps that hinder the Dark World’s aggressive strategies. The synergy with Dark World’s destructive capabilities enhances overall performance in matches.
How Can Players Build a Competitive Dark World Deck?
Players can build a competitive Dark World deck by focusing on key strategies, selecting effective cards, and understanding synergy within the deck. These components contribute significantly to overall performance in battles.
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Focus on Key Strategies:
– Discard Strategy: Dark World cards thrive on discarding them to trigger powerful effects. For instance, when “Dark World” monsters are discarded, they often activate beneficial abilities. This can lead to gaining card advantage or summoning other monsters.
– Recycling Resources: Incorporate cards like “The Gates of Dark World.” This card allows players to draw additional cards when they discard Dark World monsters. This promotes hand advantage. -
Select Effective Cards:
– Choose Monsters: Select monsters such as “Grapha, Dragon Lord of Dark World,” who can return from the graveyard after being discarded. Grapha’s ability to destroy an opponent’s card by discarding a Dark World card is also crucial.
– Include Support Cards: Cards like “Card Destruction” and “Dark World Dealings” enable efficient discarding while benefiting from the effects of discarded Dark World cards. These also help refresh the hand. -
Understand Synergy:
– Combos: Create powerful combinations. For example, discarding “Snoww, Unlight of Dark World” can search for other Dark World cards, ensuring that you maintain your momentum in the game.
– Balance: Maintain a balance between monster cards, spell cards, and trap cards. A suggested ratio is 20 monsters, 10 spells, and 5 traps for consistency. -
Tech Choices:
– Add Utility Cards: Include cards like “Cosmic Cyclone” to deal with problematic spells or traps. Players can benefit from versatile options that counter common strategies.
– Side Deck Options: Prepare a side deck to adapt to various matchups. Cards that provide additional defensive plays or disruptive strategies can enhance competitiveness.
Applying these strategies meticulously will enhance the performance of a Dark World deck in competitive play, supporting both aggressive and defensive styles tailored to different opponents.
What Strategies Should Players Implement While Using a Dark World Deck?
Players should implement specific strategies when using a Dark World deck to maximize its effectiveness.
- Utilize discard effects effectively.
- Leverage card draw mechanics.
- Build synergy with Dark World monsters.
- Control the field with removal effects.
- Focus on creating combos for quick victories.
- Adjust to opponent’s strategies with flexibility.
- Optimize card ratios for consistency.
Transitioning to the detailed explanations, understanding each strategy is crucial for mastering the Dark World deck.
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Utilize Discard Effects: Utilizing discard effects involves strategically discarding cards to activate powerful effects. Dark World monsters like “Grapha, Dragon Lord of Dark World” gain abilities when discarded. Gathering cards that allow you to discard and trigger effects can enhance your offensive capabilities. For example, “Dark World Dealings” allows players to force a discard while drawing a card, supporting the deck’s strategy.
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Leverage Card Draw Mechanics: Leveraging card draw mechanics ensures that a player maintains a strong hand size, facilitating continuous play. Cards such as “The Gates of Dark World” provide additional draws when specific conditions are met. Research indicates that drawing multiple cards increases the probability of finding essential components for combos. Frequent drawing helps to create a more sustainable flow of resources.
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Build Synergy with Dark World Monsters: Building synergy with Dark World monsters reinforces a consistent deck strategy. Each monster has unique effects that benefit from discarding. For instance, “Broww, Huntsman of Dark World” allows card draws upon being discarded. Players should select monsters that work well together to create a cohesive strategy, enhancing overall performance during matches.
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Control the Field with Removal Effects: Controlling the field through removal effects minimizes the opponent’s options. Cards like “Dark World Lightning” allow players to clear threats while gaining advantage from the discard. Studies suggest that maintaining board control directly correlates with winning rates in competitive play. Effective use of removal options can turn the tide of a duel in your favor quickly.
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Focus on Creating Combos for Quick Victories: Focusing on creating combos supports fast-paced gameplay and quick victories. Players can utilize cards like “Card Destruction” to facilitate large swings in advantage, enabling swift damage or control options. Competitive players emphasize the importance of combo setups since they can drastically alter the game state in the dark world format.
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Adjust to Opponent’s Strategies with Flexibility: Adjusting to opponent strategies means analyzing their moves and adapting tactics accordingly. Flexibility in gameplay allows for counter plays or altering strategy on the fly. The ability to pivot can increase victory chances against diverse opponents and help maintain the upper hand in various duel situations.
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Optimize Card Ratios for Consistency: Optimizing card ratios for consistency ensures that essential cards are frequently drawn. Maintaining a balanced ratio of monsters, spells, and traps allows players to access necessary tools at critical times. A well-structured ratio reduces the likelihood of dead draws, improving overall deck performance. According to a study by Yu-Gi-Oh! players, decks with well-optimized ratios see a notable increase in win rates.