One Piece TCG starter decks are the perfect entry point for new players, offering a balanced and ready-to-play experience right out of the box. If you’re new to the One Piece TCG, choosing the right starter deck can make all the difference in how quickly you learn and enjoy the game. These decks are pre-built and designed to introduce the core mechanics in a clear and approachable way, without overwhelming new players. With several starter decks available, each featuring different characters and strategies, it can be challenging to know which one suits beginners best.
What to Consider While Choosing Your First One Piece TCG Starter Decks?
- Go for simple mechanics: Start with decks that have easy-to-understand strategies.
- Pick a favorite character: It makes learning more fun and engaging.
- Try Red, Purple, or Green decks: These colors offer straightforward gameplay and solid beginner support.
- Skip the Yellow deck: It’s harder to play due to complex timing and combos.
Read on to find out which decks can help you start and build a strong foundation in the world of One Piece TCG!
1. Starter Deck 1: Straw Hat Crew (ST01)
As the very first One Piece TCG starter deck, ST01 remains one of the most beginner-friendly options available. Designed with simplicity in mind, this deck introduces basic mechanics through well-balanced gameplay. While cards like Diable Jambe (ST01-016) and Guard Point (ST01-014) still see occasional competitive use, the original Monkey D. Luffy (ST01-001) has become outdated and is often swapped out for stronger alternatives like Roronoa Zoro (OP01-001) or Monkey D. Luffy (ST21-001).
📌 Despite that, ST01 excels as a teaching tool, ideal for players who value clarity and accessibility.
2. Starter Deck 4: Animal Kingdom Pirates (ST04)
Led by the fearsome Kaido (ST04-001), this deck is the last standing from the original four starter releases and remains a solid choice for newcomers. Its focus on DON!!! management and the Animal Kingdom Pirates archetype makes it a great introduction to purple deck mechanics. Cards like Queen (ST04-005) and Kaido (ST04-003) continue to appear in competitive decks, giving ST04 long-term relevance.
📌 This starter deck offers a strong mix of foundational learning and future deck-building potential.
3. Starter Deck 15: RED Edward Newgate (ST15)
Featuring the legendary Edward Newgate, ST15 is a powerhouse designed for those new to trading card games altogether. It showcases an aggressive playstyle that is both effective and easy to grasp. The deck rewards players for mastering its straightforward strategy and improves with repeated use.
📌 While the Whitebeard Pirates may no longer dominate the competitive scene, this deck remains one of the most intuitive and enjoyable entry points into the game.
4. Starter Deck 14: 3D2Y (ST14)
ST14 earns its place on this list due to its smooth gameplay experience and a well-rounded leader, Luffy (ST14-001), who remained viable during the OP08.5 meta. Compared to more cumbersome options like ST06, this deck offers a cleaner learning curve. While it doesn’t include many competitive staples—Sanji (ST14-003) being a rare exception—it allows beginners to develop their skills with a leader they can continue using in upgraded builds.
📌 Players should note that advancing this deck for higher-level play may require additional investment.
5. Starter Deck EX: Gear 5 (ST21)
As a spiritual successor to ST01, Gear 5 revitalizes the quick-paced, straightforward gameplay that helped define the early days of the One Piece TCG. It’s tailored perfectly for new players seeking an energetic and clear-cut playstyle. While standout cards like Sanji (ST21-003) and Roronoa Zoro (ST21-015) offer some synergy beyond the starter deck, most of the set’s content is designed strictly for its internal strategy.
📌 Its excellent design makes it one of the best teaching tools for new players entering the game.
Each of these decks provides a different introduction to the world of One Piece TCG. Whether you’re drawn to the power of Kaido, the legacy of Edward Newgate, or the speed of the Straw Hat Crew, there’s a beginner-friendly option suited to every playstyle.
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