Unveiling Archazia’s Island: Magic, Mystery, and Mayhem!

This expansion introduces new characters and mechanics—the first real big update since Ursula’s Return in July 2024 (Australian Release date, launched originally on May 2024)—and kicks off exciting changes to the meta with two preconstructed single-player decks, Ruby/Sapphire and Amethyst/Steel. These deck truly showcase how much Lorcana has evolved in such a short time and is a major step forward in showing that it isn’t just some short lived TCG but one that is here to stay.

One of the most anticipated features of Archazia’s Island is the introduction of Dual Ink cards, I need it was only a matter of time before these were coming and knew these would be the turning point of maturity for the game. These cards do exactly as the name suggests, they combine two Ink colours which expanding strategic possibilities.

But there is a catch, there is always a catch! These Dual Ink cards come with limitations; for example, a Dual Ruby/Sapphire card can only be included in decks that feature both Ruby and Sapphire Ink types, rather than any deck using either colour individually. And some may not like the fact, but there are only very few of these Dual Ink cards with each of the preconstructed decks. But I like this, as it introduces us to the card, make them feel special so we want to see how they play, gets us excited for when we see more of them, without overloading them. As someone that plays another TCG, I feel like each of there sets, have themes we’ve never heard of & bombards us with them. Which may be great for a more experienced player, but can be overwhelming for newer players.

The Dual Ink cards includes in the Archazia’s Island Single Player Decks are:

Ruby/Sapphire Deck (Belle and Beast):

• Beast – Frustrated Designer
• Belle – Mechanic Extraordinaire
• Maurice’s Machine (x3)
• Beagle Boys (x2)

Amethyst/Steel Deck (Jafar and Iago):

• Jafar – Newly Crowned
• Iago – Giant Spectral Parrot
• Restoring the Crown
• Giant Cobra (x3)

Having played with them, these cards are few and far between only seeing one in my first game, but wow can they change the outcome of a game quick!

Following the shift in philosophy from “Starter” decks to more intricate “Single Player” decks, the Ruby/Sapphire and Amethyst/Steel combinations offer greater synergy than earlier waves (1-5). And again, another set in the right direction to showing the maturity of the Disney’s Lorcana TCG, and starting to cement its place among the big players.

Ruby/Sapphire Deck

Built around Beauty and the Beast, excels at banishing Item cards to trigger a variety of powerful effects. These include recovering cards from the discard pile, drawing new cards, lowering Ink costs for your next play, and even summoning the 3-cost “Belle – Apprentice Inventor” for free! Additionally, the deck lets you stack extra cards in your Inkwell to gain certain perks—though this can sometimes backfire, as seen with the high-risk 8-Ink “Lyle Tiberius Rourke.” With its focus on cards costing 3 Ink or more and the need to purge Items to maintain momentum, this deck relies heavily on boosting Ink early to keep its tempo strong. As someone who loves fast-paced playstyles, this deck was hands-down my favorite—it’s built for speed!

Amethyst/Steel deck

On the flip side, this one centers around Aladdin’s Jafar and Iago, introduces a fresh Keyword called “Vanish.” This mechanic banishes an Illusion-classified Character card if it becomes the target of an Action card. While the wording is precise, it may still trip up players trying to keep track of which card gets banished. Though “Vanish” appears on only a few cards, it becomes a central mechanic here—especially with “Jafar – Newly Crowned” helping keep “Iago – Giant Spectral Parrot” safely in hand, alongside other cards that redirect damage or exert opposing characters. The Dual Ink Action card “Restoring the Crown” feels like a bold gamble, exerting all opposing Characters and awarding two Lore per defeated Character; and what a way to win…. which I haven’t done as yet.

The Aladdin’s Jafar and Iago deck is definitely the stronger of the two, especially if you can survive the initial onslaught of the Beauty and the Beast. Yet both decks have there ups & downs. Yet I plan on continuing to “Restoring the Crown” until I win that way.

Another little bonus with these stater deck is that both decks come with a bonus booster pack and exclusive foils, adding extra value and excitement to the purchase. Considering the price of $30-$35 depending on where you purchase  them, and packets of cards costing approximately $9, that is so much value for this starter deck.

Items Available in the Set

Archazia’s Island offers a variety of items for collectors and players alike:

• Booster Packs and Boxes: These contain a mix of common, uncommon, rare, and ultra-rare cards, including the new dual-ink cards that allow for unique combinations of abilities.
• Single-Player Decks: As mentioned, these decks are perfect for new players or those looking to expand their collection with themed, ready-to-play decks.
• Illumineer’s Trove: A special collector’s box that includes a variety of cards, exclusive items, and a guide to the lore of Archazia’s Island.
• Lilo Gift Set: A themed set featuring characters from Disney’s Lilo & Stitch, complete with exclusive cards and accessories.
• Card Sleeves and Boxes: Protect your cards with stylish sleeves and storage boxes featuring artwork from Archazia’s Island.

Personally, my new Aladdin’s Jafar and Iago deck is tucked away in my new Cinderella sleeves and box. Weird I know, but I love the look of it. If you are going to get one, they are similar material as the Ultra pro Deck Boxes, a printed plastic. But I’m taking it everywhere to hopefully get my “Restoring the Crown” win.

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, Disney’s Lorcana TCG continues to deliver an impressive mix of innovation and excitement, solidifying its place as a serious contender among trading card games. And my personal favourite TCG at present, as this is the first TCG or game that my housemate has ever & will ever play with me. As someone that has been doing this for 11 years & her never wanting or playing a single boardgame with me, that speaks for itself.

The Archazia’s Island expansion not only deepens the game’s mechanics with the introduction of Dual Ink cards but also maintains a delicate balance between accessibility for new players and rewarding seasoned ones. While it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the rapid pace of releases, the quality and care evident in each new wave, though I missed out on 5 & 6, ensure that players always have something to look forward to.

The Ruby/Sapphire and Amethyst/Steel single-player decks showcase just how far Lorcana has come & a big step forward in the games maturity; with enhanced synergy and thrilling mechanics that promise countless hours of enjoyment without the huge learning curve for newer players. It is honestly one of the best TCGs in form of balance that offers something for everyone without forgetting that new players matter.

Whether you’re a competitive player or a collector, Archazia’s Island delivers exceptional value and provides even more reasons to immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Lorcana. If the past 10 months are anything to go by (18 months if from the US), this is just the beginning of a truly magical journey for fans of Disney’s Lorcana TCG!