The enjoyment of collecting things we value is a feeling many of us can relate to. Modern game design has found much inspiration in this simple pleasure, and collection mechanics are now a frequent feature in games of all genres. Collectibles can be used to create lightweight metagames that widen a game’s objectives; to reveal elements of a narrative in unique and interactive ways; or even to underpin a game’s core metaphors and mechanics, as in collectible card games. On Episode 23 of Vertical Slice we’re packing all these possibilities and more into a comprehensive tour of collectibles in game design. Let’s bust open some packs and sort through the common, rare, and legendary features of this fascinating design space.