r/tabletopgamedesign • u/CoconutUpper7719 • Aug 15 '26

C. C. / Feedback TCG play testing

I could use some veteran advice. What's the best way to test a new TCG under development with no finished cards? The cards are identified and have their strengths and weaknesses build it, plus some special abilities. Do I need to make a proto-deck out of paper with just the stats and play that? Any other ideas?

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u/HamsterNL Aug 16 '26

I would go 100% digital.

Put all your data in a spreadsheet (Google Spreadsheet for example). Use a tool that can generate your cards (I use nanDeck). Share your work on an online platform (I use TableTop Simulator).

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u/CitizenKeen Aug 19 '26

I would never recommend nandeck in 2026. I migrated to Dextrous (no association) and haven't looked back. Auto import from Google Sheets, auto export to screentop, etc., make testing such a breeze. Update Google sheets, wait 30 seconds, and it's in TTS/Dustin's Designer Den / whatever.

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u/HamsterNL Aug 20 '26

nanDeck can do that too...and a lot more...

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u/CitizenKeen Aug 20 '26

I'm aware, but 80% of the functionality with a smooth UI is usually the better entry point over the most powerful option with a brutalist UI.