TCGplayer is an online trading card marketplace that started in 2008 in Syracuse, New York. It serves as a trusted platform for buying and selling collectible trading card games. Here are some key points about TCGplayer:
Product Range: TCGplayer offers a wide variety of collectible card games, including:
Magic: The Gathering
Yu-Gi-Oh!
Pokémon
One Piece CCG
Digimon TCG
Flesh and Blood
Lorcana
MetaZoo
History: Founded by Chedy Hampson, TCGplayer evolved from a web design company established in 1998. Over time, it became a prominent marketplace for trading card enthusiasts.
Card Authentication and Grading: TCGplayer introduced a “card conditioning” area where cards are authenticated and graded based on their condition.
Collaborations and Acquisitions:
In 2021, DJ and streamer Steve Aoki collaborated with TCGplayer to sell “mystery boxes” of Pokémon cards, collectively worth around 3 million USD.
In 2022, the online marketplace eBay acquired TCGplayer for US$295 million.
Controversies:
In March 2020, TCGplayer faced union-related issues due to changes in healthcare plans and worker pay.
In 2023, TCGplayer workers established a union, leading to disputes with eBay over union practices.