Game Jargon Definition: “Booster Pack”

Booster Pack (noun) - boost·er pack /ˈbüstər ˈpak/

In collectible card games, digital collectible card games, and, to a lesser extent, collectible miniatures war games, a booster pack is a sealed package of cards or models designed to add to a player’s collection. With miniatures games that use booster packs, typically the contents of the pack is no secret and is advertised prominently on the outside of the package—though HeroClix (2002–present by WizKids) is a notable exception. With customizable card games, however, the specific card contents within each pack is randomized, and there is no guarantee of a buyer gaining a specific card. In many games, within a given booster pack there is a fixed distribution of cards based on rarity, while other games’ booster packs contain a truly random assortment of cards. The number of cards in a booster pack varies depending on the game (and perhaps also on the specific set or expansion for that game) that the booster pack is part of. Typically, a booster pack will contain between 8 and 15 cards. Some examples of collectible card games that use booster packs are: Magic: The Gathering (1993–present) by Wizards of the Coast; Pokemon Trading Card Game (1996–present) by Nintendo; and Star Realms (2014–present) by Wise Wizard Games.