The Psychology of Collecting, And Why We Chase the 'Enchanted' Rare

March 16, 2026
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In game shops, across kitchen tables and in online marketplaces, trading card game players all share the same universal thrill; the joy of opening a fresh pack. Whether the joy is in an Enchanted card from the Disney Lorcana range, or a mythic rare from Magic: The Gathering, there is a surge of excitement for collectors that goes beyond the card itself. The anticipation, nostalgia and reward that comes with the unveiling of a new card is one that keeps this hobby thriving.  

Why do we love collecting? 

At the heart of collecting is the deep love of the human brain for reward and uncertainty. Psychologists refer to this as a variable ratio reinforcement schedule. You don’t know when that rare card will appear, but you know it could be in the next pack. That “maybe” is incredibly powerful. It’s what keeps people engaged, hopeful, and, of course, emotionally invested. When a Magic player finds a foil Mythic or a Lorcana fan receives an Enchanted card, the dopamine spike is not only real, it is memorable. 

The chase is not just chemical, it’s also emotional. For many collectors, TCGs tap into something that’s nostalgic, which is one of the biggest psychological motivators. Magic: The Gathering players usually remember their first deck, first tournament, or first time they saw a Black Lotus. Lorcana collectors, on the other hand, are drawn to the resonance of Disney storytelling. Drawing an Enchanted Elsa or Mickey is not simply the act of acquiring a card, it is about reconnecting with memories of childhood, family traditions, and those beloved characters. Cards are simply small, collectible pieces of personal history. 

In collecting there is also a powerful element of identity, TCGs permit players to express themselves through their most valued cards. A Magic player who treasures angels or dragons is revealing something through their tastes. A Lorcana collector who wants every Stitch or Maleficent card is putting together a personal narrative.  

Scarcity has a part to play 

Human nature means naturally assigning higher value to those things that are rare or difficult to obtain. Magic is the master of this with limited print Mythics, premium foils, and special editions. Lorcana’s Enchanted rarity has tapped into the same instinct. These cards are intentionally difficult to pull, visually stunning, and usually tied to iconic characters. It is this rarity and emotional resonance that makes them appear almost treasure-like. Owning one is not simply about having a powerful card, but possessing something not many others have. 

Yet, collecting is not a solitary activity. Whether trading at local game stores, showing off binders at local events or simply comparing your collection, community plays a huge part in collecting. Disney-themed events draw Lorcana fans, as do online groups, and family game nights. The social reinforcement, admiration, excitement, shared enthusiasm, adds to the joy of collecting. A rare card is a conversation starter, or a bragging right, but it can even be a bonding moment. 

Ultimately, the chase for any coveted card is about more than the card itself. It is also about the experience: the anticipation that comes from opening a pack, the emotional connection to the artwork, and the pride of ownership. TCG’s are successful because deep down they understand human nature: we love stories, we love surprises, and we love chasing a moment of magic.