Unlike the normal cards in any particular trading card game set, limited-edition cards make their appearance in a variety of ways. Booster sets might include chase cards -- extremely rare cards that are so named because collectors "chase" them -- that get inserted into only a handful of packs. What makes the cards special? Well, you might find cards printed on special material (such as the clear plastic cards in Fullmetal Alchemist). Other chase cards may carry the same name and title as a regular card, but alternate artwork or a different layout gives the card a special look -- and sometimes a serious price tag on the secondary market, too.

The best limited-edition cards don't come in booster packs at all. Instead, you get them free by attending some kind of special event sponsored by the game company. To latch onto these cool cards, attend one of the summer conventions, win a tournament, play a game against a company staffer (usually at one of the big summer conventions -- yet another reason to attend), or just join the fun in a prerelease tournament.

Many companies offer league play through your local store, which makes another easy way to get limited-edition cards. Although the winners always get a cool item, everybody who plays in a regular league traditionally goes home with something. That makes leagues a great place to start your limited-edition card collection!