Best First Card Games of 2025

Edward West Avatar
Edward West
Last Updated: 8 Feb 2025

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

First Card Games is a collection of classic card games suitable for children and beginners. The set includes instructions and all the necessary equipment to play popular games such as Go Fish, Old Maid, and Crazy Eights. These games are perfect for family game night or for introducing children to the world of card games. The colourful cards are easy to handle and the simple rules make it easy for everyone to join in the fun. First Card Games is a great way to spend quality time with loved ones while also improving memory, strategy, and social skills.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

University Games First 100 Words Card Game Cover #TOP 1
University Games First 100 Words Card Game
ftb score rating icon 9.9
University Games First 100 Words Animals Card Game Cover #TOP 2
University Games First 100 Words Animals Card Game
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Pokémon TCG: My First Battle with Pikachu and Bulbasaur Cover #TOP 3
Pokémon TCG: My First Battle with Pikachu and Bulbasaur
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 First Card Games

#TOP 1

University Games First 100 Words Card Game

University Games First 100 Words Card Game Cover
University Games First 100 Words Matching Card Game

The University Games Matching Card Game is a fantastic introduction to card games for toddlers. It is based on the popular book "First 100 Words," allowing your little ones to learn while they play. This game encourages the development of essential language and communication skills. As they engage with the game, they will also enhance their vocabulary, counting, and shape recognition. It's an ideal solution for keeping children entertained, whether at home or on the go, making learning fun and enjoyable.

What We Like
Encourages learning through play
Develops vocabulary and counting skills
Portable for on-the-go entertainment
Suitable for ages 2 and up

University Games First 100 Words Animals Card Game

01335
Multicolor
University Games First 100 Words Animals Card Game Cover
University Games First 100 Words Animals Card Game, 01335

The First 100 Words Animals Game is an excellent introduction to card games for young children. It is based on the popular children's book, helping to encourage learning through play. You will find that it aids in developing crucial language and communication skills, allowing your child to express themselves more effectively. Additionally, it supports vocabulary growth, counting skills, and the recognition of different animals, making it both educational and entertaining. Perfect for on-the-go fun, this game is suitable for children aged two and above.

What We Like
Encourages learning through play
Develops vocabulary and counting
Recognises different animals
Portable for on-the-go entertainment
Suitable for young children
#TOP 3

Pokémon TCG: My First Battle with Pikachu and Bulbasaur

My First Battle
Pikachu & Bulbasaur
Pokémon TCG: My First Battle with Pikachu and Bulbasaur Cover
Pokémon TCG: My First Battle—Pikachu and Bulbasaur (2 ready-to-play mini decks & accessories)

My First Battle Pokémon TCG is the ideal introduction to the Pokémon Trading Card Game for families and friends. With its streamlined gameplay and clear guidance, you can easily learn to train and battle together. It includes two mini-decks of 17 cards each, ensuring that you have everything needed for two players. Additionally, the two playmats and damage counters enhance your gaming experience, making it convenient and enjoyable for everyone involved.

What We Like
Easy to learn and play
Includes two ready-to-play decks
Perfect for family gaming
Comprehensive guidance provided
#TOP 4

Ravensburger My First Memory Game for Kids

20878
Multicolor
7,5 x 7,5 x 0,2 cm
Ravensburger My First Memory Game for Kids Cover
Ravensburger My First Memory Game - Matching Picture Snap Pairs For Kids Age 3 Years Up - Educational Todder Toy

The Ravensburger Memory Game is a delightful introduction to matching games for children aged three and up. It features 24 beautifully illustrated cards showcasing various vehicles, perfect for engaging young minds. The large, extra-thick cards are designed for little hands, making it easy for you to play along and help your child develop concentration and memory skills. This game is suitable for 2 to 4 players, offering a fun group activity that can also be enjoyed while travelling.

What We Like
Encourages memory and concentration
Ideal for young children
Portable and travel-friendly
Beautifully illustrated cards
Great for 2 to 4 players
#TOP 5

Orchard Toys Dress Up Nelly Colour Matching Game

Multicolor
One Size
Orchard Toys Dress Up Nelly Colour Matching Game Cover
Orchard Toys Dress Up Nelly Educational Kids Games for Sorting, Colour Matching and Memory Game, First Card Game for Learning Colours & Outfits, Baby Flash Cards for Boys & Girls and Toddlers Age 2+

Dress Up Nelly Game by Orchard Toys offers a fun learning experience that introduces colours and matching to young children. The simple gameplay is perfect for kids aged 2-5, featuring 30 chunky, wipe-clean cards that are easy for little hands to manage. You can play solo or with up to three friends, making it a versatile activity. Additionally, the game has different levels of difficulty, allowing younger players to learn while older ones can enjoy the challenge of competing against each other.

What We Like
Engaging and educational
Durable, easy-to-clean cards
Suitable for individual or group play
Multiple difficulty levels available
#TOP 6

Orchard Toys Red Dog Blue Dog Lotto Game for Children

Orchard Toys Red Dog Blue Dog Lotto Game for Children Cover
Orchard Toys Red Dog Blue Dog Lotto Game, A Fun First Matching and Memory Game, Perfect For Children Aged 2-5, Develops Memory Skills

The Orchard Toys Lotto Game is a delightful colour match game designed for young players aged 2 to 5. It aids in teaching children their colours, making learning both fun and engaging. As you play, your little ones will develop essential matching and memory skills, promoting cognitive growth. This educational game is perfect for 2 to 4 players, allowing friends or family to join in on the fun while enhancing social interaction.

What We Like
Develops memory skills
Teaches colours effectively
Fun for small groups
Suitable for young children
#TOP 7

D.A.Y. Republic Jumbo Snap Playing Cards

D.A.Y. Republic Jumbo Snap Playing Cards Cover
D.A.Y. Republic 36 Jumbo Snap Playing cards, Cute Design Styles, Matching Pairs Game, Great Memory Boosting Activity and Ideal Screen Free Fun, Also Perfect Size for Travel

The D.A.Y. Republic Snap Cards offer endless entertainment and screen-free fun for you and your children. With 36 jumbo cards, each measuring 12.5cm x 8.5cm, these cards are visually striking and perfect for travel. The easily identifiable pictures on each card make them ideal for teaching new words and enhancing visual learning. Additionally, the game promotes hand-eye coordination and reaction speed, providing a creative learning experience for ages 3 and up.

What We Like
High-quality jumbo cards
Great for educational purposes
Encourages social interaction
Portable for travel
Boosts memory and skills
#TOP 8

Hebayy Memory Matching Game for Toddlers

Heba389
Multicolor
Hebayy Memory Matching Game for Toddlers Cover
Hebayy Memory Matching Game, 72 PCS First Words Matching Cards for Toddlers 36 Pairs Memory Cards Educational Toys for Preschool 4 5 6 Years Old

The Hebayy Memory Game is an engaging matching game designed for toddlers, featuring 72 cards that showcase adorable animals, fruits, and everyday items. This game not only sparks curiosity but also helps improve focus and memory during playtime. Its double-sided design allows you to draw and create new games, enhancing creativity. Made from durable, non-toxic materials, the cards are safe for small hands and easy to clean, making it a practical choice for parents.

What We Like
Enhances memory skills
Safe and durable materials
Encourages creativity
Fun for all ages
Vibrant and engaging designs
#TOP 9

Skillmatics Guess in 10 Animal Planet Game

SKILL34GAP
Multicolor
Skillmatics Guess in 10 Animal Planet Game Cover
Skillmatics Card Game - Guess in 10 Animal Planet, Perfect for Boys, Girls, Kids, and Families Who Love Toys, Board Games, Gifts for Ages 6, 7, 8, 9

The Skillmatics Animal Guessing Game is an ultimate guessing challenge where you can play in teams or one-on-one. You will ask up to 10 questions to identify the animal on the card, making it a fun way to engage your critical thinking. With Clue Cards and Bonus Questions, you can strategise your way to victory by collecting seven cards. This award-winning game is perfect for family game nights and is enjoyable for ages six and up, ensuring everyone can join in the fun.

What We Like
Engaging for all ages
Encourages strategic thinking
Portable and travel-friendly
Award-winning fun
Builds key skills
#TOP 10

Mattel Disney Winnie the Pooh My First Uno Game

54480
Yellow
Large
Mattel Disney Winnie the Pooh My First Uno Game Cover
Mattel Disney Winnie the Pooh My First Uno Card Game

The Winnie the Pooh My First Uno is designed for the youngest UNO enthusiasts, featuring extra large cards that are easy for little hands to hold. With familiar characters like Winnie the Pooh and his friends, the game brings fun and excitement to playtime. It's a great way for children to learn about colours and numbers in an enjoyable manner. Ideal for 2 to 4 players, this game is perfect for children aged three and above, making it an excellent choice for family bonding or playdates.

What We Like
Extra large cards for small hands
Fun characters engage children
Teaches colours and numbers
Suitable for small groups
Perfect for young children
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who invented the first card game?

Who invented playing cards and what is the origin of 'Hearts', 'Diamonds', 'Clubs' and 'Spades'? PLAYING cards were invented by the Chinese before AD1000. They reached Europe around 1360, not directly from China but from the Mameluke empire of Egypt.

2. When was the first deck of cards made?

Origin and spread Playing cards first appeared in Europe in the 1370s, probably in Italy or Spain and certainly as imports or possessions of merchants from the Islamic Mamlūk dynasty centred in Egypt. Like their originals, the first European cards were hand-painted, making them luxury goods for the rich.

3. What were the first playing cards made of?

Scrolls from China's Tang Dynasty mention a game of paper tiles (though these more closely resembled modern dominoes than cards), and experts consider this the first written documentation of card playing.

4. When was the standard 52 card deck created?

History. The English pattern pack originated in Britain which was importing French playing cards from Rouen and Antwerp by 1480. The earliest cards of the English pattern date to around 1516. But Britain only started manufacturing its own cards towards the end of the 16th century, when card production began in London.

Editor's Notes

During our first card game research, we found 306 first card game products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 149,984 customer reviews through our big data system to write the first card games list. We found that most customers choose first card games with an average price of £5.94.

The first card games are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of first card games, including University Games, Ravensburger, Orchard Toys, D.A.Y. Republic, Hebayy.

Written by
Edward West Avatar

Edward's family owns a retail store in Edinburgh for toys and games. He grew up taking a very active part in the family's business. Edward earned his first income from writing web content on a toy related gig for an online company. When he was 18, he took over from his father, and since then, he has been in charge and management of the store and several others around England.