The Ultimate Guide to Disney Lorcana Inks: Unveiling their Secrets

Disney Lorcana is a trading card game that introduces unique concepts and features to the table. One such concept is Inks, which can be challenging for players to grasp. Inks come in six different varieties (Amber, Amethyst, Emerald, Ruby, Sapphire, and Steel), each representing a set of cards and a distinctive playstyle. These Inks play a pivotal role in deckbuilding, guiding players on their strategic approach to the game. In the world of Disney Lorcana, Inks serve as the magical power source known as Illumineers, enabling players to summon glimmers. The choice of Ink often aligns with the qualities of the summoned character or may even impact their characteristics.

Deck Building With Inks

The Six Ink Types, Explained

Amber Ink

Amber Ink cards are known for their supportive nature, often featuring healers and bodyguards. Described as "purposeful, patient, and dedicated" on the official Lorcana website, these characters possess exceptional qualities.

For players seeking a deck with high Willpower and the ability to heal other cards, constructing an Amber deck is the key. Among the standout choices in this category is Moana of Motonui. By embarking on quests, she enhances all other Disney princesses, rejuvenating them.

Amethyst Ink

Despite all the Ink in Lorcana possessing magical properties, Amethyst Ink specifically resonates with formidable characters capable of harnessing magic. Typically, these characters exhibit extraordinary abilities, although their potential impact may be diminished if they are unable to utilize these talents effectively. Described as "wondrous... sorcerers, sages, and animated objects" on the official Lorcana website, Amethyst Glimmers offer a captivating opportunity for individuals to create an Amethyst deck and explore the optimal ways to maximize these incredible abilities. Notably, an exceptional powerhouse in this category is Mickey Mouse, Wayward Sorcerer, renowned for his capacity to maintain an army of Broom cards.

Emerald Ink

Emerald Ink is utilized to conjure Glimmers that possess agility and intelligence. These cards often possess abilities that can bewilderingly perplex the adversary, either banishing their cards or compelling them to discard under certain circumstances. The official Lorcana website characterizes this Ink as yielding versatile and ever-vigilant characters.

If players are inclined to swiftly adapt to the battlefield, they ought to construct an Emerald deck. A prominent figure within the Emerald Ink faction is Cruella De Vil, Miserable as Usual. Whenever she is banished during a challenge, she retains the ability to handpick any character currently in play and return them to their respective player's hand.

Ruby Ink

Ruby Ink embodies fearless and audacious Glimmers. These cards frequently possess abilities such as Rush, enabling them to confront opponents immediately upon being summoned. On the Lorcana website, these characters are referred to as "warriors, explorers, and daredevils."

For players seeking an aggressive approach, constructing a Ruby Ink deck is highly recommended. Aladdin, the Heroic Outlaw, exemplifies this playstyle, as he grants the player two lore while simultaneously causing all enemies to lose two lore whenever he eliminates an enemy.

Sapphire Ink

Sapphire Ink cards offer a distinctive viewpoint and are filled with academic prowess. Their abilities can prove exceptionally effective when employed strategically. Described by the official Lorcana website as "intellectual, intelligent, and creative," these cards embody the traits of strategists, inventors, and artists.

For players seeking to devise intricate strategies and witness their unfolding, constructing a Sapphire deck is ideal. An exemplification of this is Aurora, Dreaming Guardian, who adeptly safeguards her allies by strategically warding them against magical effects and abilities.

Steel Ink

Steel Inks are known for their simplicity and strong defensive abilities, often found in characters with high Strength and Willpower stats. Some Steel Inks also possess the Challenger ability, which enhances their power during challenges. According to the official Lorcana website, Steel Glimmers are described as "Large and imposing, heavily armored, or just plain powerful."

For players seeking a direct and effective path to victory, building a Steel deck is a recommended choice. One notable representative of this Ink type is Simba, Returned King. With a base Strength of four and Willpower of six, Simba's Strength increases significantly to eight when he engages in a challenge, thanks to his Challenger ability.

How to Pick Two Inks for a Deck

When selecting Ink types for a deck in Lorcana, it is important for beginner trading card game players to consider how these types complement each other. To achieve a balanced deck, it is recommended to include at least one offensive Ink and one support Ink. Lorcana's starter decks already incorporate this balance, pairing Amber with Amethyst, Emerald with Ruby, and Sapphire with Steel. However, players are encouraged to experiment with different combinations. For instance, a deck combining Amber and Steel Ink cards could create a formidable combination. The options for deck building will expand with the release of Lorcana's second set of cards.

Disney Lorcana releases on August 18, 2023.