Based on Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone (known outside the U.S. as Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone), the first novel in the Harry Potter series, the game includes a total of 116 illustrated cards with all-new artwork that capture favorite characters, potions, spells, creatures and situations from the best-selling novel.

Hundreds of children from all over London, dressed as their favorite Harry Potter characters, gathered at Great Hall, Guildhall, to be among the first in the world to glimpse the new game. At the event, participants were split into four groups, where they learned to play the game in a unique setting, complete with interactive portraits and bubbling potions to drink.

About the Game

Each player acts as a wizard or witch from the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The goal is to cause your opponent to run out of cards, achieved by clever use of characters, spells, creatures, items, adventures and lessons.

The Harry Potter TCG Starter Set includes two 40-card decks, damage counters, a rulebook and playmat. It sells for about $10, with 11-card booster packs available for about $3.29.

The first expansion for the Harry Potter TCG, Quidditch Cup, is scheduled to be available later this year.

League play is scheduled to begin in the first quarter of 2002.

Elaine Chase is the lead game developer and creative director for the Harry Potter TCG. She has worked on the game since January 2001.

Board Games News Resources

• News Archive
  A collection of boardgame news from around the world.

• Submission Guidelines
  How to have your news considered for inclusion here.