The Purple Shadow Gaming crew is back from the Disney Lorcana Challenge in Milwaukee — and this one meant more than match records. In this episode of Quest Like a Pro, we break down the full weekend: the energy, the lessons, and the breakthroughs that helped Andy go 10-0 and helped the whole team level up heading into Set 10.
We dive into what competitive play really looks and feels like — the mindset, the relationships, and the moments that define growth far beyond the scoreboard.
Key Takeaways
Having a strong team around you fuels confidence and calm
Mindset and emotional control are just as important as mechanics
Choose decks you love — familiarity beats chasing the meta
Complacency kills progress: keep learning, testing, iterating
Positive energy and rituals can meaningfully impact performance
Know your matchups – and how to respond when variance hits
Wins and losses both offer growth when you stay curious
Clear goals shape better decisions before, during, and after events
Whether you're chasing your first Day 2 or refining your mindset for top tables, this episode is packed with practical reflections to help you Quest Like a Pro.
In this episode of Quest Like a Pro, Noah, Andy, and Justin are joined by fellow Purple Shadow Gaming teammates Lucas, Zach, and Corbin for a full table breakdown of recent Lorcana tournaments — including PPG and CCQ events. The crew dives into the current meta, sharing what’s working (and what’s not), how different archetypes like Amber Steel and Blurple are holding up, and what they’re tweaking ahead of the next big tournaments.
From fatigue with predictable matchups to new experimentation with speed and synergy, this episode explores whether the meta is evolving — or just cycling in disguise. If you’ve felt stuck in your testing or want to hear what real grinders are seeing at tables across the region, this one’s for you.
Key Takeaways:
🌀 The meta feels stale in some ways, prompting deckbuilders to think differently.
⚔️ Amber Steel and Purple Steel remain top-tier, but new versions are emerging.
🧠 Matchup-specific strategy is more important than ever — you can’t just play “the best deck.”
🧪 Deck speed matters. Slower decks are getting punished.
🧩 RNG and draw sequencing continue to create swingy moments — knowing your deck’s range helps.
🔁 Adapting to cycles in competitive play is a key to long-term improvement.
📦 Preparation for the DLC is in full swing — with players testing tech cards and matchup swaps.
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🛡️ Brought to you by Purple Shadow Gaming — sleeves, coaching, content, and community for players who want to level up.
🧙♂️ Use code QUESTLIKEAPRO for 15% off sleeves and gear at https://purpleshadowgaming.com
Fresh off CCS and local tournaments, the Purple Shadow Gaming crew is back with insights, hot takes, and honest reflections from their recent Disney Lorcana tournaments. In this episode Noah, Andy, Justin, and two special PSG guests dive into what’s working (and what’s not) in the Fabled meta.
From the evolving identity of Blurple, to why Amber Steel remains a thorn in its side, they unpack the biggest lessons from weekend events, discuss youth tournament highlights, and spotlight how adapting deck strategies can make or break your next showing.
Whether you're grinding for the next 1K or just trying to make sense of the meta shifts, this episode will leave you more prepared — and hopefully more encouraged — to learn, grow, and quest like a pro.
Key takeaways:
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🛡️ Brought to you by Purple Shadow Gaming — sleeves, coaching, content, and community for players who want to level up.
🧙♂️ Use code QUESTLIKEAPRO for 15% off sleeves and gear at https://purpleshadowgaming.com
What actually happened when Fabled dropped?
In this episode of Quest Like a Pro, Noah, Andy, and Justin break down the hype, highlights, and hard truths from Lorcana’s Fabled release weekend. They unpack their firsthand tournament experiences, spotlight surprising deck performances, and explore how new cards are already reshaping the competitive landscape. It’s a raw, real-time look at how the meta is shifting — and what that means for players trying to keep up (or stay ahead).
Whether you're a seasoned grinder or just stepping into Season 2, this episode delivers the pulse of the community, early insights on top archetypes, and actionable perspective on what to watch — or play — next.
🎯 Key Takeaways
Purple decks dominated early play, proving their predicted strength in the Fabled meta.
Ruby Amethyst remains resilient, showing surprising stability despite the shift.
New cards like Mother Gothel and Lose the Way are already influencing gameplay and strategy.
Bingo-style pack openings made release weekend more fun and interactive — and great for community building.
Sapphire Steel ramp decks are gaining traction with explosive plays and late-game power.
Deck identity matters more than ever — knowing what your deck wants to do is crucial.
Aggro archetypes like Chernadogs are finding footing as meta answers to control-heavy builds.
Open decklists are changing how players approach matchups and counterplay.
Community connection remains a core strength of competitive Lorcana.
Week 2 predictions suggest key shifts as players adjust to the new landscape.
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🛡️ Brought to you by Purple Shadow Gaming — a training ground and team for players who want to grow their game.
🎒 Use code QUESTLIKEAPRO for 15% off sleeves and gear at purpleshadowgaming.com
As Lorcana’s Fabled set hits the table, the meta is already shifting. In this episode, Noah, Andy, and Justin dive deep into the evolving competitive landscape—breaking down key decks gaining traction, what’s overperforming in early testing, and what savvy players should be watching for ahead of major events.
From Amethyst Steel's continued dominance to the rise of Ruby-Amethyst control and Blurple tempo decks, the conversation explores how different builds are adapting, what tech choices matter now, and why draw power and tempo are more critical than ever in this rotation environment.
Whether you're refining your deck for the next tournament or just trying to understand how the meta is shaking out, this episode is your sneak peek into where Lorcana’s Season 2 is headed.
Takeaways
Let us know in the comments what you think will reign supreme in week 1 of the Fabled meta. We'll be back next week to review SSG and Red Saber's events, plus preview CCS + Ink.
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🛡️ Brought to you by Purple Shadow Gaming — a training ground and team for players who want to grow their game.
🎒 Use code QUESTLIKEAPRO for 15% off sleeves and gear at purpleshadowgaming.com
In this episode, Noah and the team from Purple Shadow Gaming discuss the transition from Season 1 to Season 2 of competitive play in Lorcana. They reflect on memorable moments from the previous season, anticipate changes in the new meta, and explore strategic adjustments players will need to make.
The conversation also delves into deck building strategies, the importance of adapting to fewer cards in hand, and the exploration of new strategies and cards that could impact competitive play.
Key takeaways
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🛡️ Brought to you by Purple Shadow Gaming — a training ground and team for players who want to grow their game.
🎒 Use code QUESTLIKEAPRO for 15% off sleeves and gear at purpleshadowgaming.com
In this episode of Quest Like a Pro, the PSG crew dive into the evolving Set 7 meta—with a spotlight on the return of Amber/Steel 🟡⚪️.
Once a reliable ladder climber, this deck is showing signs of resurgence thanks to a few strategic updates, some new tools from Set 7, and clever adaptations in the aggro space.
📌 What we explore in this episode:
Whether you’re looking to pilot Amber/Steel, counter it, or understand where it fits in the current landscape—this episode breaks down what’s working and why.
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This show is just one part of our mission at Purple Shadow Gaming: to build a community where players like you can grow, connect, and master the game together. We’re here to help you quest like a pro, and that includes offering the best gear for your journey.
Right now, we’re featuring some incredible Lorcana sleeves, praised by top players. If you want to check them out and get 15% off your order, head to purpleshadowgaming.com or use the code ‘QUESTLIKEAPRO’ at checkout.
In this episode of Quest Like a Pro, we dive deep into the current state of Ruby/Sapphire in Set 7.
Once the deck of Set 6, Ruby/Sapphire 🔴🔵 has taken a back seat in early Set 7 to Sapphire/Steel 🔵⚪️ — but that shifted post-CCS.
We explore what’s behind the resurgence, how recent tournaments are shaping deck choices, and whether Ruby/Sapphire still has what it takes to compete at the top tables.
Topics we cover:
This episode is packed with practical insights for players looking to build, refine, or counter Ruby/Sapphire decks in today’s meta.
---This show is just one part of our mission at Purple Shadow Gaming: to build a community where players like you can grow, connect, and master the game together. We’re here to help you quest like a pro, and that includes offering the best gear for your journey. Right now, we’re featuring some incredible Lorcana sleeves, praised by top players. If you want to check them out and get 15% off your order, head to https://purpleshadowgaming.com/promo/... or use the code ‘QUESTLIKEAPRO’ at checkout.
Sapphire may be everywhere right now—but what if the answer to the current meta isn’t to race it... but to ruin its hand?
In this episode of Quest Like a Pro, we dig into Emerald/Steel Discard—a deck once feared for its Diablo-fueled disruption, now potentially poised for a comeback in Set 7. With new tech, old favorites, and a shifting meta, we’re asking:
🔹 Is Discard Back? – Why discard mechanics are extra spicy in today’s meta.
🔹 Key Cards to Watch – Diablo, Ursula, Pete Space Pirate, and the underrated all-stars.
🔹 Builds We’re Testing – From the consistent vVonderland list to Kurt Spice’s spice.
🔹 Sapphire Matchups – How discard can punish greedy draw engines and force misplays.
🔹 The Final Verdict – Is Emerald/Steel a true meta counter, or just a niche pick for control players?
If you love strategic disruption, patient gameplay, and outthinking your opponent, this episode is for you.
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This show is just one part of our mission at Purple Shadow Gaming: to build a community where players like you can grow, connect, and master the game together. We’re here to help you quest like a pro, and that includes offering the best gear for your journey. Right now, we’re featuring some incredible Lorcana sleeves, praised by top players. If you want to check them out and get 15% off your order, head to https://purpleshadowgaming.com and use the code ‘QUESTLIKEAPRO’.
In this episode of Quest Like a Pro, hosts Noah and Andy sit down with competitive TCG player TheDave, from team Ink Thieves, to explore what it really takes to grow as a Lorcana player.
From the fundamentals of deck building and limited play to the evolving meta and the importance of community, Dave shares battle-tested strategies and honest reflections on the highs and lows of competitive play. Whether you’re new to Lorcana or chasing your next top cut, this episode is packed with insights on preparation, mindset, and why losing might be the most important part of learning.
Guest links:
Key Takeaways:
1️⃣ Losing is part of the process. Every match—especially the ones you lose—can teach you something valuable.
2️⃣ Know your role. Understanding your deck’s function in each matchup is crucial to making smart decisions.
3️⃣ Community accelerates growth. Surrounding yourself with engaged players sharpens your strategy and makes the grind more fun.
4️⃣ Limited play builds strong fundamentals. It teaches you how to evaluate cards, adapt, and play cleaner.
5️⃣ Preparation beats luck. Theory crafting, playtesting, and reviewing games are what separate top players from the rest.
Promotional offer:
This show is just one part of our mission at Purple Shadow Gaming: to build a community where players like you can grow, connect, and master the game together. We’re here to help you quest like a pro, and that includes offering the best gear for your journey. Right now, we’re featuring some incredible Lorcana sleeves, praised by top players. If you want to check them out and get 15% off your order, head to https://purpleshadowgaming.com and use the code ‘QUESTLIKEAPRO’.
With Archazia’s Island shaking up the meta, Amethyst/Steel 🟣⚪️ is emerging as a serious contender—but is it ready to break into top-tier in a sea of Sapphire 🔵 (over 50% of the Meta, right now!!).
In this episode, the crew is back, and we take a deep dive into how this deck stacks up against the competition and explore the strategies that could give it an edge.
🔹 Deck Performance & Meta Fit – How does Amethyst/Steel compare to top-performing decks like Sapphire/Steel and Ruby/Sapphire?
🔹 Key Cards & Draw Engine – Why Doc is the backbone of this deck and how free characters change the game.
🔹 Aggro vs. Control – Does Amethyst/Steel thrive as an aggressive deck, or does it struggle against control builds?
🔹 Matchups & Adaptation – How to navigate item-heavy builds and why immediate value from cards is crucial.
🔹 The Verdict – Is Amethyst/Steel a meta sleeper, or does it need more time to shine?
Whether you're refining your decklist or just keeping up with the evolving Lorcana meta, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.
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This show is just one part of our mission at Purple Shadow Gaming: to build a community where players like you can grow, connect, and master the game together. We’re here to help you quest like a pro, and that includes offering the best gear for your journey. Right now, we’re featuring some incredible Lorcana sleeves, praised by top players. If you want to check them out and get 15% off your order, head to https://purpleshadowgaming.com and use the code ‘QUESTLIKEAPRO’.
In this episode of Quest Like a Pro, we sit down with Shawn "Pando" Leung, a top Lorcana competitor who secured his Worlds invite with Amber Steel. Shawn shares his journey from casual TCG player to high-level competitor, breaking down the key moments that shaped his approach to the game.
We dive into his playtesting philosophy, in-game decision-making, and how he navigates high-pressure tournament moments. From card counting and strategic playtesting to mental resilience and the importance of community, this episode is packed with insights to help you level up your game.
Guest links:
Key takeaways:
1️⃣ Card counting isn’t just for math nerds—it’s a core skill for top players. Tracking key cards helps make better in-game decisions.
2️⃣ Intentional playtesting beats mindless reps. Instead of grinding games, structured discussions and focused practice accelerate improvement.
3️⃣ Mental stamina is part of the game. Long tournament days require preparation beyond just deck choice—hydration and energy management matter.
4️⃣ Losing isn’t failure—it’s a tool for growth. Reflecting on mistakes and identifying patterns is how great players evolve.
5️⃣ Community is everything. Surrounding yourself with strong players and fostering dialogue leads to better play and a more rewarding competitive experience.
Promotional offer:
This show is just one part of our mission at Purple Shadow Gaming: to build a community where players like you can grow, connect, and master the game together. We’re here to help you quest like a pro, and that includes offering the best gear for your journey.
Right now, we’re featuring some incredible TCG sleeves, praised by top players.If you want to check them out and get 15% off your order, head to https://purpleshadowgaming.com/ and use the code ‘QUESTLIKEAPRO’.
With Archazia’s Island introducing powerful new cards, the meta is shifting—and one of the biggest questions on everyone’s mind is whether Sapphire/Steel can finally break into S-tier. In this bonus chat, we take a deep dive into this evolving deck and how the latest set impacts its competitive standing.
🔹 What’s New for Sapphire/Steel? – We analyze key additions from Archazia’s Island and how they fit into existing strategies.
🔹 Core Builds & Packages – Wheel? Doc? Oswald? We break down the different approaches and their pros and cons in the evolving meta.
🔹 The Workshop Factor – Could Workshop be the superior engine for Sapphire/Steel, or is it a trap?
🔹 The Final Verdict – Is this the moment Sapphire/Steel makes the leap to S-tier, or is the hype unwarranted?
Whether you're fine-tuning your deck for high-level play or just love analyzing the competitive scene, this episode is packed with insights to help you stay ahead of the meta.
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This show is just one part of our mission at Purple Shadow Gaming: to build a community where players like you can grow, connect, and master the game together. We’re here to help you quest like a pro, and that includes offering the best gear for your journey. Right now, we’re featuring some incredible Lorcana sleeves, praised by top players.
If you want to check them out and get 15% off your order, head to purpleshadowgaming.com and use the code ‘QUESTLIKEAPRO’.
In this episode of Quest Like a Pro, we sit down with s4iler, a top competitor and coach in Disney Lorcana, to break down what it really takes to improve in trading card games.
Hosts Noah Barnett and Andy Rodriguez dive into s4iler’s journey through competitive TCGs, his coaching philosophy, and how teamwork plays a critical role in high-level play. From deck consistency to tournament prep, we explore the mechanics, mindset, and strategies that separate good players from great ones.
If you’re looking to level up your Lorcana game, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.
Guest links:
Takeaways:
Promotional offer:
This show is just one part of our mission at Purple Shadow Gaming: to build a community where players like you can grow, connect, and master the game together. We’re here to help you quest like a pro, and that includes offering the best gear for your journey. Right now, we’re featuring some incredible Lorcana sleeves, praised by top players.
If you want to check them out and get 15% off your order, head to https://purpleshadowgaming.com/ and use the code ‘QUESTLIKEAPRO’.
Disney Lorcana’s newest set, Archazia’s Island, drops on March 7, and we’re diving deep into how it will impact the competitive scene.
In this episode of Quest Like a Pro, we break down:
Whether you’re prepping for your next tournament or just love theorycrafting, this episode has everything you need to stay ahead of the game!
Promotional offer:
This show is just one part of our mission at Purple Shadow Gaming: to build a community where players like you can grow, connect, and master the game together. We’re here to help you quest like a pro, and that includes offering the best gear for your journey. Right now, we’re featuring some incredible Lorcana sleeves, praised by top players.
If you want to check them out and get 15% off your order, head to purpleshadowgaming.com and use the code ‘QUESTLIKEAPRO’.
In this episode of Quest Like a Pro, hosts Noah Barnett and Andy Rodriguez dive into the world of Disney Lorcana with competitive player Jonathan 'LamChopss' Lam. They explore his journey into competitive trading card games, the strategies behind his success with the Blue Steel deck, and the mindset required to thrive in high-pressure tournament environments.
The conversation also touches on the importance of resilience, learning from losses, and the value of watching and analyzing gameplay from other players. The episode concludes with rapid-fire questions and advice for new players looking to improve their skills in the game.
Guest links:
Takeaways:
Promotional offer:
This show is just one part of our mission at Purple Shadow Gaming: to build a community where players like you can grow, connect, and master the game together. We’re here to help you quest like a pro, and that includes offering the best gear for your journey. Right now, we’re featuring some incredible Lorcana sleeves, praised by top players.
If you want to check them out and get 15% off your order, head to purpleshadowgaming.com and use the code ‘QUESTLIKEAPRO’.
