Most trading card packs hide the odds of winning rare cards, study finds

AI Summary

A study finds that most physical trading-card packs do not disclose the odds of obtaining rare, highly sought-after cards. Because packs contain randomized cards and consumers—including children—may buy many in pursuit of rare cards, the researchers highlight concerns about opaque, gambling-like purchasing practices.

Pokémon, sports and other physical trading and collectible cards have been around for decades but have surged in popularity since COVID. These cards are usually obtained through gambling-like packs containing random cards. Most packs do not offer any highly desirable cards, but a few packs will. Consumers, often including children, therefore buy many packs in the hope of obtaining rare chase cards.