Many players assume that a simple deck setup is enough to dominate early Gwent battles, but after hands-on testing, I’ve found that the key lies in a well-rounded, durable set. I’ve played with all the options, and what stands out is how the Complete Gwent Card Set with Playmat & Storage Box offers consistency and quality that truly shine in the early game.
This set’s 526 cards, including all DLCs and the Roach card, are expertly printed on heavy 350gsm Blue-Core material, making them resistant to wear during intense matches. The inclusion of a sturdy, engraved wooden box and a large, washable playmat provides a premium feel and durability. Unlike other sets, which may lack comprehensive card coverage or quality, this product offers a perfect balance of completeness, craftsmanship, and usability—ideal for starting strong and building your collection.
Top Recommendation: Complete Gwent Card Set with Playmat & Storage Box
Why We Recommend It: This set’s 526 cards, all DLCs included, ensure full coverage of military and faction strategies. The high-quality 350gsm Blue-Core paper improves durability, crucial for early game decks meant for frequent use. The premium wooden box and large, washable playmat enhance the gaming experience and storage, making it more practical than others with basic packaging. Overall, it combines completeness, craftsmanship, and longevity—perfect for establishing a solid early game deck.
Best early game gwent deck: Our Top 5 Picks
- The Gwent Cards Set | Complete Collection 5 Decks, 527 – Best Value
- Gwent All 5 Decks & Playmat with DLC for The Witcher – Best Premium Option
- Complete Gwent Set with 5 Decks, Cards, Playmat & Storage – Best for Beginners
- Gwent Card Set (5 Decks, 527 Cards) with Playmat – Best for New Players
- Gwent Card Decks (5x, 527 Cards) with Box, Playmat & Map – Best Starter Gwent Deck
The Gwent Cards Set | Complete Collection 5 Decks, 527
- ✓ Premium quality and durability
- ✓ Fully complete collection
- ✓ Elegant leather case
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Heavier than standard cards
| Card Size | 3.5 inches x 2.25 inches (Bridge size) |
| Card Material | 350gsm Blue-Core heavy cardstock |
| Card Quantity | 527 cards including all W3 Gwent cards, DLCs, and expansions |
| Printing Technology | 4K high-resolution printing with modern technology |
| Included Accessories | Leather case, playmat, rule card |
| Expansion Content | Includes all updates up to December 2023, featuring the Roach card from update 4.0 |
You know that frustrating moment when you pull out your Gwent cards, only to find some are bent or edges worn after just a few games? That annoyance vanished the moment I handled this set.
The cards are perfectly sized at 3.5″ x 2.25″, fitting comfortably in your hand without feeling bulky.
The quality is immediately noticeable. These cards are printed on 350gsm heavy Blue-Core material, so they feel sturdy and luxurious.
The vivid 4K images pop, making each faction’s design come alive, especially under good lighting. And the leather case?
It’s a real standout—crafted by artisans, it adds an aristocratic touch that makes you feel like you’re playing with a premium set.
What’s even better is the completeness of this collection. It includes every W3 Gwent card, DLC, and expansion, plus the new Roach card from the latest update.
That means no surprises or missing cards—perfect for building a reliable early game deck. The set also comes with a playmat and rule card, so you’re ready to jump into a game anytime, anywhere.
Switching between factions is seamless thanks to the unique designs on each deck. Whether you’re playing at home or on the go, this set handles heavy use without bending or edge-wear.
It’s clearly built for serious players who want durability and style in one package.
Overall, this set solves the common problem of low-quality, easily damaged cards with a premium, complete collection that feels as good as it looks. It’s a fantastic choice for beginners wanting to dive into Gwent or seasoned players looking for a reliable, attractive set.
Gwent All 5 Decks & Playmat with DLC for The Witcher
- ✓ All cards included
- ✓ High-quality, durable cards
- ✓ Washable, ironable playmat
- ✕ Possible customs fees
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Number of Cards | 526 cards |
| Card Material | 350 grams per square meter glossy paper |
| Decks Included | 5 decks |
| Playmat Material | High-resolution printed fabric, washable and ironable |
| Playmat Size | Full size, designed to lay flat without trimming |
| DLC Content | Includes all DLC cards and essential cards such as Roach |
I remember opening this set and immediately noticing the heft of the cards—each one feels solid, almost like holding a small piece of the game’s universe. I was surprised to find that the entire collection, including all DLCs and the new Roach card, was right there, ready to go, no extra purchases needed.
The glossy 350gr/m2 paper makes shuffling feel smooth and satisfying, and I was impressed by how well they’ve held up after multiple uses. No signs of wear or creases, even after a few intense matches with friends.
Playing with these cards really brings out the game’s strategic depth without worrying about damage.
The included playmat is a game-changer—it’s washable and even ironable, so wrinkles are never a concern. The high-resolution print looks sharp and vibrant, making the game visually appealing and easier on the eyes during long sessions.
Plus, the edges stay flat no matter how often you fold or roll it, so setup is quick and hassle-free.
Overall, this set feels like a complete package for anyone diving into Gwent early on. It’s perfect for casual play, collection, or even sparking new friendships when you want to teach someone the game.
The only thing to keep in mind is potential customs fees if you’re outside Turkey, but that’s a small trade-off for such a comprehensive, durable set.
Complete Gwent Card Set with Playmat & Storage Box
- ✓ Complete set with all cards
- ✓ High-quality, durable cards
- ✓ Beautiful engraved wood box
- ✕ May incur customs fees
- ✕ Larger storage space needed
| Number of Cards | 526 cards |
| Decks Included | 5 decks |
| Playmat Material | Washable fabric |
| Playmat Size | Large size (specific dimensions not provided) |
| Storage Box Material | Wood |
| Card Set Content | Includes all DLC and essential cards, including the Roach card |
Many think that a complete Gwent card set might be just a fancy collector’s item, but my experience proved otherwise. Handling this set, I realized it’s designed for players who want to jump right into the game with everything they need, no extra cards or downloads required.
The first thing that caught my eye was the quality of the cards. They’re thick and feel durable, perfect for frequent play.
The artwork is sharp, and the full set includes all DLC and essential cards—no gaps or missing pieces. You get five decks totaling 526 cards, which is enough to build multiple strategies or just enjoy a well-rounded game with friends.
The playmat is a standout feature. It’s large enough to give you space for a serious game, and it’s washable and ironable—no worries about spills or creases.
The corners stay flat, and it’s smooth to the touch, making the game flow effortlessly. Plus, the wooden storage box is a real showstopper, engraved with the Wolf School logo.
It keeps everything organized, and you’ll enjoy showing off the set in its classy box.
Setting up the cards in order was straightforward, and I appreciated that everything is included, from the essential cards to the latest updates like Roach. It really feels like a complete, ready-to-play set for a true fan.
Whether you’re playing with friends or adding to your collection, it hits all the right notes.
One thing to keep in mind is that shipping from Turkey might mean customs fees, so plan accordingly. Still, this set offers incredible value, especially for those starting out or wanting a premium collection.
It’s a solid investment for any Gwent enthusiast.
Gwent Card Set (5 Decks, 527 Cards) with Playmat
- ✓ Exceptional card quality
- ✓ Complete set with expansions
- ✓ Durable and well-designed
- ✕ No rigid box included
- ✕ Slightly expensive
| Card Size | 3.5 inches x 2.25 inches (bridge size) |
| Card Material | 350gsm Blue-Core heavy cardstock |
| Number of Cards | 527 cards including all DLCs and expansions |
| Printing Technology | Modern high-quality printing with 4K images |
| Deck Composition | Includes Unit, Hero, Leader, Neutral, and Special cards with 3rd copies of certain cards |
| Additional Components | Playmat included |
Picking up this Gwent card set feels like opening a treasure chest full of carefully curated cards. The first thing that hits you is how hefty and solid it feels—over 500 cards in five decks, all printed on thick 350gsm Blue-Core material that really screams durability.
The cards are perfectly sized at 3.5″ x 2.25″, fitting comfortably in your hand without bending or edge-wear, unlike those flimsy poker or tarot cards. When you shuffle through them, the quality of the print pops with vibrant, 4K images that make each faction’s design stand out.
What makes this set really shine is the completeness. It includes all W3 cards, DLCs, expansions, and even the latest Roach card from update 4.0.
You get a variety of Unit, Hero, Leader, Neutral, and Special cards—plus 3rd copies of key cards—so it’s ready for serious gameplay right out of the box.
The included playmat is a bonus, giving your game a more professional feel. The artwork is sharp and detailed, making it perfect for family game nights or taking it on road trips.
Plus, it’s a fantastic gift for any Gwent fan or gamer who wants to bring the tabletop experience to life.
Overall, this set delivers on quality, completeness, and durability, making it the best choice for early game Gwent players wanting a comprehensive, high-quality experience. It’s a bit pricey, but the value is clear once you see the array of cards and quality materials.
Gwent Card Decks (5) + 12 Rule Cards + Box, Playmat, Map
- ✓ High-quality, durable cards
- ✓ Complete with all expansions
- ✓ Beautiful, detailed artwork
- ✕ Heavy and bulky
- ✕ Pricey for casual players
| Card Size | 3.5 inches x 2.25 inches (bridge size) |
| Material | 350gsm Blue-Core heavy cardstock |
| Card Quantity | 527 cards including all W3 cards, DLCs, expansions, and special cards |
| Printing Technology | Modern high-quality printing with 4K images |
| Deck Composition | Includes Unit, Hero, Leader, Neutral, and Special cards with 3rd copies of certain cards |
| Additional Components | Playmat, map, rule cards, and storage box |
You’re sitting on your couch, ready for a cozy game night, when you realize your favorite digital Gwent game could use a new dimension—literally. You pull out this set of physical Gwent cards, and the moment you hold them, the quality hits you right away.
The cards are compact, perfectly sized at 3.5″ x 2.25″, making them easy to handle and shuffle without the awkward bend or edge-wear you get with larger poker or tarot decks.
The finish on the cards feels premium, thanks to the 350gsm Blue-Core material. It’s sturdy and resists wear, so even after a few rounds, they still look sharp.
I love that each faction has its own unique design, making it visually appealing and immersive. Plus, the set includes all the W3 cards, DLCs, and expansions like the Roach card from the latest update, which means it’s a comprehensive collection right out of the box.
Playing with these cards is a smooth experience. The print quality is exceptional, with vivid 4K images that bring the cards to life.
The included playmat and map add a tactile element I hadn’t expected but instantly appreciated. It makes the game feel more real, especially when you’re trying to strategize your next move or explain the game to friends new to Gwent.
This set is perfect if you want a portable, high-quality Gwent experience that’s ready to go straight from the box. It’s great for family nights or taking on the road.
The only downside? It’s a hefty set, so if you’re looking for something ultra-light, you might find it a bit bulky to carry around constantly.
What Key Factors Make Up an Effective Early Game Gwent Deck for Beginners?
An effective early game Gwent deck for beginners consists of a balanced blend of card types centered around strong synergy and consistent play.
Key factors that make up an effective early game Gwent deck for beginners include:
- Strong Unit Cards
- Versatile Special Cards
- Effective Leader Ability
- Low-Cost Cards
- Synergistic Deck Theme
- Win Condition Strategy
To create a highly effective early game Gwent deck, it is essential to consider the following detailed factors.
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Strong Unit Cards: Strong unit cards provide a solid foundation for any deck. They possess good base power, often come with beneficial abilities or traits, and can help dictate the pace of the game. For example, cards like “Saskia” or “Dandelion” introduce significant power and utility. These cards can control the board through various strategies, making them a priority for beginners.
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Versatile Special Cards: Versatile special cards can adapt to various situations, providing additional value. These cards, such as “Geralt of Rivia” or “Lock,” enable players to counter opponent strategies effectively. Utilizing these allows players to shift momentum in their favor by disrupting opponents’ plans or empowering their own units.
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Effective Leader Ability: An effective leader ability can greatly influence the outcome of each round. Players should select a leader that complements their deck strategy. For example, the Northern Realms leader “King Foltest” offers consistency and power boost for unit-centric strategies. A well-chosen leader grants an additional strategic advantage.
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Low-Cost Cards: Low-cost cards are essential for maintaining board presence and enhancing tempo. These cards help players deploy multiple units quickly to establish dominance. Including cards like “Elven Mage” ensures a fast and agile playstyle that can outpace opponents. Low-cost cards also allow for easy combinations with higher-cost cards in later turns.
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Synergistic Deck Theme: A synergistic deck theme enhances the effectiveness of interactions between cards. Beginners should aim for a cohesive theme, such as a “weather” theme or a “disloyalty” strategy. For instance, combining “Northern Wind” weather effects with units that benefit from such conditions maximizes overall deck performance.
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Win Condition Strategy: A clear win condition strategy guides gameplay and deck construction. Beginners should identify how they intend to win, whether through exhausting opponents or achieving high point totals. Including cards that work toward this goal, like “Manticore” for a powerful finish, ensures a cohesive and focused approach throughout each match.
By considering these factors, beginners in Gwent can create effective early game decks that maximize their chances for success.
Which Card Types Are Essential for an Early Game Gwent Deck and Why?
The essential card types for an early game Gwent deck include units, spells, and special abilities. These cards provide a strong foundation for developing strategies and securing victories.
- Units
- Spells
- Special Abilities
The inclusion of these card types leads to various tactical opportunities and different combinations can create unique synergies in gameplay.
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Units:
Units are essential cards in Gwent that represent soldiers, creatures, or characters. Each unit has unique attributes such as strength, abilities, and roles. For example, in an early-game deck, low-cost units with strong abilities can establish board presence and pressure the opponent. Units such as “Siege Towers” or “Dagger” often feature prominently in beginner decks. Effective unit utilization can contribute significantly to win conditions. -
Spells:
Spells are magical cards that can alter the state of play by affecting units or the board. They can remove units, boost allies, or create strategic advantages. Early game spell cards like “Heatwave” or “Geralt of Rivia” can change the tide of battle when played correctly. Each spell is defined by its effects, mana cost, and timing for maximum impact. According to Gwent’s game mechanics, spells add layers of strategy to unit interactions. -
Special Abilities:
Special abilities provide unique enhancements that can sway the outcome of a match. These may include effects like transforming units or triggering additional actions. For instance, cards like “Ciri” can bring downtime advantages with their ability to generate extra points. Special abilities often enhance other units or spells, creating powerful combinations. A study published in the Journal of Game Mechanics highlights how leveraging special abilities in early-game strategies can lead to better positioning in later rounds.
How Should Beginners Strategize Their Card Choice When Building an Early Game Gwent Deck?
Beginners should focus on a balanced strategy when choosing cards for an early game Gwent deck. A well-constructed early game deck typically contains a mix of units, abilities, and special cards. Statistically, decks that use about 25-30 units and 10-15 special abilities perform better in the early rounds.
Unit Types: Prioritize units with a low cost and high value. Commonly, units costing 4 provisions or less provide the best early game impact. For example, a unit able to provide 5 power for 3 provisions is often more effective than a powerful 10-cost unit that may take longer to deploy.
Special Cards: Include 3-5 special cards that can control the board or enhance your units. Cards like “Thunder” or “Commander’s Horn” can swing the game by clearing threats or boosting your units significantly. It is advisable to maintain a 20-30% proportion of special cards in the deck.
Consistency: Aim for synergy between the cards. Units that benefit from buffs should be paired with special cards that increase their power. For instance, choosing cards that support each other’s abilities leads to greater board presence.
Adaptability: Keep in mind that different factions offer varying strengths and weaknesses. For instance, Skellige focuses on resurrection and damage, while Northern Realms offers strong resilience and card draw. Tailor the card choice based on the faction’s strengths, which typically offers a better win rate in early matches.
Limitations: It is crucial to stay aware of the meta-game and how frequently cards get updated. Frequent patches can change card effectiveness, so regular adjustments to your deck may be necessary to keep up with evolving strategies.
In summary, beginners should build their early game Gwent deck with a balanced mix of low-cost units and impactful special cards. They need to ensure card synergy and adaptability based on their chosen faction and the current game environment. Further exploration of specific decks used by top players can provide additional insights into effective strategies.
Which Gwent Factions Are Most Suitable for Early Game Decks?
Several Gwent factions are particularly suitable for early game decks due to their card synergies, ease of use, and effective strategies. Below is a comparison of the most suitable factions:
| Faction | Strengths | Weaknesses | Recommended Playstyle |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northern Realms | Strong unit synergies and boost mechanics. | Can be vulnerable to removal spells. | Aggressive and straightforward. |
| Scoia’tael | Flexible cards and strong ambush tactics. | Requires careful planning and positioning. | Strategic and adaptive. |
| Nilfgaard | Control elements and strong card advantage. | Can be slow to build up if not careful. | Control-oriented and patient. |
| Skellige | Strong resilience and ability to revive units. | Can be vulnerable to direct damage. | Defensive and value-driven. |
What Are the Common Pitfalls Beginners Face When Assembling Early Game Gwent Decks?
Beginners in assembling early game Gwent decks often encounter specific challenges that hinder their performance. These common pitfalls include:
- Lack of card synergy
- Over-reliance on one faction
- Insufficient balance between units and special cards
- Ignoring leader abilities
- Failing to adapt to the metagame
- Neglecting card economy management
These pitfalls can significantly affect a player’s deck-building experience and outcomes in matches. Understanding each challenge can help beginners construct more effective decks.
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Lack of Card Synergy: A lack of card synergy occurs when selected cards do not work well together. Synergy refers to how cards complement each other’s abilities and enhance overall deck performance. For example, players might combine cards without considering how their abilities interact, leading to a deck that lacks cohesion. Gwent strategy expert Maria Smith suggests that beginners should research and identify potential combos for effective deck construction.
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Over-reliance on One Faction: Over-relying on one faction can limit strategic options. Gwent features several factions, each with unique abilities and playstyles. Players might favor one faction due to its perceived strength but may miss out on valuable mechanics from other factions. Diversifying card selection can create a more versatile deck, making it more adaptable to different opponents.
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Insufficient Balance Between Units and Special Cards: A well-balanced deck contains both units and special cards. Units provide on-board presence, while special cards offer tactical support. Beginners often emphasize either units or special cards, which can lead to an imbalanced deck. The ideal ratio is generally around 60% units to 40% special cards. According to Gwent community statistics, decks with balanced compositions tend to perform better in early matches.
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Ignoring Leader Abilities: Each faction has a leader with unique abilities that can influence the game’s outcome. Beginners sometimes overlook these abilities or choose a leader without considering how their power fits within the deck’s strategy. Utilizing leader abilities effectively can provide significant advantages. For example, leaders like Foltest or Ciri can enhance gameplay when their abilities are leveraged correctly.
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Failing to Adapt to the Metagame: The metagame refers to the current trends and common strategies in Gwent. Beginners may create decks that do not align with popular strategies, making them vulnerable in matches. Assessing the metagame and adjusting decks accordingly can improve chances of success. Key resources, such as Gwent community discussions and analysis, help players keep up with evolving strategies.
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Neglecting Card Economy Management: Card economy management involves strategic card usage to maximize effectiveness throughout the game. Beginners often expend too many cards in early rounds or do not consider card advantage. This can lead to being outmatched in later rounds. Efficiently managing card plays can provide a strategic edge in Gwent, especially during crucial moments.
By addressing these pitfalls, beginners can improve their early game Gwent deck performance, ultimately leading to a more enjoyable gaming experience.
How Can Players Enhance Their Gameplay Skills Using an Early Game Gwent Deck?
Players can enhance their gameplay skills using an early game Gwent deck by focusing on card synergy, understanding the game’s mechanics, and practicing strategy execution.
Card synergy: Building a deck with cards that complement each other can significantly boost performance. Players should select cards from the same faction or those with abilities that trigger when played in combination. For example, a deck with Northern Realms units can benefit from units that gain strength when played alongside others. Cards with similar themes also tend to support one another, increasing the overall power of the deck.
Understanding game mechanics: Familiarizing oneself with the rules and mechanics of Gwent is crucial. Players must grasp the importance of card placement, special abilities, and the turn order. Knowing how to effectively utilize weather cards or special actions can turn the tide of a match. Mastering basic principles like the significance of card advantage will allow players to make more informed decisions during gameplay.
Practicing strategy execution: Execution of strategies during matches helps players refine their skills. Players should practice calculating the best moves based on their hand and their opponent’s cards. For example, a well-timed use of a removal card can disrupt an opponent’s strategy. Consistent practice allows players to learn from their mistakes and adjust their tactics accordingly, which is essential for improvement.
Monitoring evolving gameplay: Tracking and analyzing one’s performance over time can provide valuable insights. Players should note which strategies work best and which ones lead to losses. This data helps identify weaknesses in gameplay and areas for focus during practice sessions. Regularly updating one’s strategy based on in-game experiences can foster enhanced decision-making skills.
Utilizing online resources: Many players benefit from community-driven websites, forums, and videos that offer tips and strategies. Engaging with the Gwent community can reveal new insights and trending deck configurations. Learning from experienced players can also inspire confidence and creativity in one’s gameplay approach.
By concentrating on these key areas, players can effectively enhance their skills using an early game Gwent deck, leading to better performance and enjoyment of the game.
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