Wizards of the Coast President Calls Japan the Source of TCG Culture
The interview signals Wizards of the Coast's continued focus on Japan as a cultural and commercial center for trading card games, with Duel Masters set for a milestone anniversary.
Reporting from 1 sources: KAI-YOU.
John Hight, president of Wizards of the Coast, visited Japan and gave an official interview. He discussed Magic: The Gathering's record sales in 2025, the importance of the Japanese market, and plans for Duel Masters' 25th anniversary in 2027. Hight described Japan as the source of TCG culture and said any TCG that succeeds there can succeed globally.
John Hight, president of Wizards of the Coast, visited Japan and gave an official interview on the company's global strategy. Hight, who oversees the Wizards of the Coast and Digital Gaming divisions under Hasbro, said Magic: The Gathering recorded its highest-ever sales in 2025. He attributed the success to a solid gameplay foundation and the long-term playability of older cards.
Hight called Japan the source of TCG culture, noting that Japanese players integrate the game into their lives and identities. He stated that any TCG succeeding in Japan can succeed anywhere, and pledged continued investment in the market. For Duel Masters, which will mark its 25th anniversary in 2027, Hight said the company aims to create excitement befitting the milestone. He also confirmed plans for more cross-IP collaborations following the Final Fantasy series partnership in 2025, and emphasized the role of digital platforms like MTG Arena in lowering barriers to entry.
Synthesized by Yomimono from the 1 cited source below, including Japanese-language reporting where cited, then editorially reviewed before publishing.