North America World Championship Qualifier 2025
North America World Championship Qualifier 2025 |
Join us at the North America WCQ 2025 for a weekend full of excitement and spend the weekend hanging out with other Yu-Gi-Oh! fans and Duel against the Top Duelists in your region for a chance to represent North America at the Yu-Gi-Oh! World Championship 2025! Event Dates: July 11th – 13th, 2025!
MORE LINKS & INFORMATION You can select more information and view schedules from the drop-down menu at the top of this page. Updated: 6/6/2025
COVID-19 Restrictions for the North America WCQ 2025 KONAMI Digital Entertainment, Inc. (KDE-US) strongly encourages, but does not require, all attendees to be fully vaccinated and to wear a mask. However, KDE-US reserves the right to implement a mandatory mask and/or vaccine requirement for any event on short notice, if deemed necessary. If this event does require attendees to wear a mask, KDE-US will make all available efforts to notify all attendees. However, it is your responsibility to confirm you have read and understood the most current KDE-US COVID-19 policy prior to your arrival at the event, by checking this FAQ section, which may be updated from time to time. Please note that all attendees must follow measures outlined in the KDE-US COVID-19 Addendum to help prevent the spread of illness. The COVID-19 addendum can be found at https://www.yugioh-card.com/en/downloads/penalty_guide/COVID19_Addendum_v_1.pdf. Any attendee who has or develops symptoms consistent with COVID-19, regardless of vaccination status or other measures taken, should refrain from attending this event. If symptoms develop during this event, attendees should immediately notify event staff, withdraw from this event and leave the venue. If event staff observe symptoms consistent with COVID-19, they may direct impacted individuals to leave the venue. This can include the symptomatic individuals and those who were in close proximity with such individual for extended periods of time. By attending this event in person, all attendees understand and acknowledge that they risk exposure to and contraction of potentially dangerous diseases and viruses, including the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), and any other diseases or viruses not listed, while traveling to, from, and during the event. By attending this event, all attendees agree to knowingly and freely assume all such risks and enter the venue at their own risk. KDE-US makes no representations that it has taken any safety precautions that relate to infectious diseases or exposure, and even if KDE-US did proactively take preventative measures, KDE-US has made no representation that those measures will in any way reduce or prevent the risks associated with exposure. Attendees release KDE-US, its employees and representatives, and all persons involved WITH RESPECT TO ANY AND ALL ILLNESS, DISABILITY, DEATH, or loss or damage to person or property, to the fullest extent permitted by law. BY ATTENDING IN THIS EVENT, ATTENDEES ARE DEEMED TO HAVE GIVEN A FULL RELEASE OF LIABILITY TO KDE-US TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW.
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Date & AddressJuly 11 - July 13 Indiana Convention Center |
Travel & Accommodations |
TRAVEL & ACCOMODATIONS
Travel Information
Q: What’s the closest airport to the North America WCQ 2025? A: Indianapolis International Airport
Q: What’s the best way to get to the tournament from the airport or bus station? A: The list of Public Transportation services at Indianapolis International Airport (IND) can be found here: https://www.ind.com/transportation-car-rental This site gives details about car rentals, bus services, taxi services, and ride share services available at the airport.
Q: Are there any nearby hotels? A: You can find hotels near the Indiana Convention Center here: https://www.icclos.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/VisitIndy_DWTNHotelsMap101619.pdf
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Registration Schedule |
REGISTRATION SCHEDULE North America WCQ 2025 Registration Information<
North America Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG Dragon Duel Championship Registration Information
North America WCQ 2025 Registration Information Q: When can I register for the North America WCQ 2025? A: Online Registration for the NAWCQ is now open. Online registration will remain open until either all available seats in the NAWCQ and NADDC are “sold out” or until Friday July 11, 2025 at 8:00 AM ET (whichever comes first). If all available seats in either the NAWCQ or NADDC are not taken by Online Registration, then there will be a chance to register for either event on-site at the venue on Friday July 11, 2025 between 12:00 PM and 7:00PM ET.
Remember, there is no guarantee there will be any on-site Registration for the NAWCQ. There will be social media posts and an update to the FAQ if the NAWCQ fills up all seats before the event because of online registration.
*** Schedules are subject to change and may be updated before the event begins. *** *** Online Registration is open till the End Time and Date listed above or until available seats sell out, whichever comes first. *** *** Deck Lists MUST be submitted by the Deck List Due Date via the website where you registered if you register online. *** *** On-Site Registration is only available if the event does not “sell out” via Online Registration. ***
Q: If I registered and can no longer attend, do I have to notify anyone? A: Yes. Any Duelist that does not attend the North America WCQ and does not reach out to the registration website team before Friday, July 11th, to notify that they won’t be able to attend will be blocked from registering online for future Tier 3 events. If you preregistered but are no longer attending, please reach out to the Tournament Organizer at ygoreg@thesidedeck.com and let the registration staff know that you will not make it to the event. IMPORTANT!! Participation items will only be awarded to Duelists that complete the check-in process at the event.
Q: Do I receive any items for registering online? A: Yes! As an added incentive to register for the North America WCQ online, Duelists will receive one of the NEW! pre-registration coins, while supplies last.
NEW! pre-registration coins This coin is in addition to the World Championship Qualifier 2025 Sleeves
WCQ Participation Game Mat
WCQ Participation Sleeves
Q: What will I need to bring in order to check in? A: Make sure you have all of the following, in order to check in for the North America WCQ:
Q: When will I receive my participation prizes? A: You will receive your participation prizes when you check in for the North America WCQ. Please keep in mind that these items are participation prizes – you must attend the North America WCQ as a participant in order to receive them. They cannot be mailed to you or picked up on your behalf.
North America Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG Dragon Duel Championship Registration Information Q: When can I register for the North America Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG Dragon Duel Championship? A: Registration will open on Friday, July 11th from 3:00PM until 7:00PM, and on Saturday, July 12th, from 8:00AM until 9:45AM. We strongly recommend that you register on Friday, to make sure you are ready to play on Saturday. If you register on Friday, you do not need to register again on Saturday. Your Deck List will be collected at Registration. This means that you must have a completed Deck List ready to hand in when you register for the North America Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG Dragon Duel Championship. Once a Deck List has been submitted it can no longer be changed.
Q: What will I need to bring in order to register? A: Make sure you have all of the following, in order to register for the North America Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG Dragon Duel Championship:
Q: When will I receive my participation prizes? A: You will receive your participation prizes at registration for the North America Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG Dragon Duel Championship. Please keep in mind that these items are participation prizes – you must attend the North America Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG Dragon Duel Championship as a participant in order to receive them. They cannot be mailed to you or picked up on your behalf.
Dragon Duel Championship Participation Game Mat
2025 WCQ Sleeves |
Public Event Information |
PUBLIC EVENTS
Public Event Schedule & Prizing Friday, July 11th
Saturday, July 12th
Sunday, July 13th
Registration for ongoing Public Events begins at the event’s start time. Registration for all non-ongoing Public Events begins approximately one hour before the event is scheduled to begin.
*Deck Lists are required. **Prizing is limited and subject to change. Any change in prizing will be announced before registration begins for any event with prizing different than advertised. ***Number of Participants per event subject to change without notice. Any change will be announced during the North America WCQ 2025.
2025 Last Chance Qualifier & Regional Qualifier Prizes
ATTACK OF THE GIANT CARD!! Prizes
Speed Duel ATTACK OF THE GIANT CARD!! Prize
Time Wizard ATTACK OF THE GIANT CARD!! Prize Speed Duel Coin
Q: What are the point values for the Public Events? A:
No Public Event Points are awarded for the following events: North America WCQ 2025 Main Event Duelists must be present for the start of the first Round of each event for which they register, in order to receive the entry points. You cannot register in more than one event at a time. If you register for an event while you are still enrolled in a previous event, you will forfeit all Public Event points for all events in which you are simultaneously registered.
Q: What is a Swiss Round Tournament? A: Duelists are paired off based on each Duelist’s win/loss record. Duelists are not eliminated when they lose a match during Swiss tournaments – instead, they will continue to be paired against Duelists with similar records for all remaining Rounds of the event.
Q: What is a Single-Elimination Tournament? A: Half of the tournament is eliminated after each Round – the losing Duelist is out of the tournament, while the winner goes on to the next Round. This continues until only one Duelist remains, which is then declared the winner.
Q: What are the Last Chance Qualifiers? A: Last Chance Qualifiers are Advanced Format, Constructed, 16-player, Single-Elimination Events, where the winner will earn an invite to the North America WCQ 2025. Only Duelists who do not already have an invite to the North America WCQ 2025 may participate in any Last Chance Qualifier. Duelists who already have an invite and participate in a Last Chance Qualifier will automatically lose their invite and will have to re-earn it to participate in the North America WCQ 2025. There is no age limit for Duelists who are eligible to participate in the Last Chance Qualifiers. There is no limit on how many Last Chance Qualifiers a Duelist can enter, but they can only register for one at a time A Deck List is required to participate in a Last Chance Qualifier. If you are eliminated from a Last Chance Qualifier you may ask the judge working your event for your Deck List, if you plan on using the same Deck List to enter another Last Chance Qualifier. Duelists who win Last Chance Qualifiers will be required to register for their North America WCQ 2025 upon completion of their Last Chance Qualifier. Duelists are not required to use the same Deck that they used in the Last Chance Qualifier but are required to create and submit a Deck List online as part of the North America WCQ 2025 Registration process.
Q: What is the Advanced Constructed Format Dragon Duel? A: Dragon Duel tournaments are Advanced Format, Constructed events exclusive to Duelists born in 2012 or later. Dragon Duels give a chance to earn an invite to the next WCQ. It is run using Swiss Rounds without a Top Cut playoff. Duelists that are eligible to play in the Dragon Duel tournament may enter the event for free. Participants are required to provide proof of age in order to participate in a Dragon Duel (copy of Birth Certificate, Passport, etc.). Duelists must be born in 2012 or later. A minimum of four (4) Duelists is required to run a Dragon Duel tournament. A Deck List is required for participation into a Dragon Duel. Dragon Duel tournaments are Tier 2 events. All Duelists who earn an invite to the next WCQ must have their guardian fill out a copy the WCQ Invite Form prior to receiving their prizes. A valid e-mail address must be provided for either the Duelist or the guardian.
Q: What are the prizes for the Advanced Constructed Format Dragon Duel? A: Top 4 Duelists in a Dragon Duel tournament will receive a 2025 Regional Game Mat, a Dragon Duel Medal, and a Regional Card Case. In addition to the prizes listed above, Invites awarded in the Dragon Duel for the next WCQ are based off of attendance, with the top-ranking Duelists after the final Round of Swiss earning an invite to the next WCQ.
The guardian for any Dragon Duelists who earn an invite to the WCQ must fill out a copy of the WCQ Invite Form prior to receiving their prizes. A valid e-mail address must be provided for the guardian. Duelists are required to complete and submit a WCQ Invite form on site. Prizes are not awarded until after the WCQ Invite forms have been completed and properly submitted.
Q: What is the Format for the Casual Sealed Deck Dragon Duel? A: Each Duelist would receive one Speed Duel Demo Deck. They would then play a normal best 2 out of 3 game matches following Speed Duel Rules.
Duelists can review the Speed Duel Policy Document here; https://www.yugioh-card.com/en/downloads/penalty_guide/Speed_Duel_Addendum-Official_KDE-US_YGO_TCG_Policy.pdf
Q: What are the prizes for the Casual Sealed Deck Dragon Duel? A: All Duelists receive the Speed Duel Demo Deck for the tournament and in addition, the winner will receive a Speed Duel coin.
Q: Does the Casual Sealed Deck Dragon Duel affect the Dragon Duel Championship Tournament? A: No, the Casual Sealed Deck tournament does not affect the Dragon Duel Championship and does not award any invites.
Q: What are the rules for 3 vs 3 Team Dueling? A: The 3 vs 3 Team Dueling Tournament will be Advanced Format Constructed, Single-Elimination with no Playoff Cut. Duelists must use an uncut KDE-US Registration Form sheet to register for this event (3 Registration Forms per sheet). The top Duelist is automatically Duelist A, the middle is Duelist B, and the bottom is Duelist C. Duelist A is considered to be the Team Captain and is the primary point of contact in regard to administrative purposes. Each team must register a Team Name. The Team Name must be written on the top of the Registration Form. Team Names may not be offensive or disrespectful in any manner. Event Staff reserve the right to request a new team name if they feel the name may be inappropriate.
Here are the basic rules:
Example of play: Team 1 (Duelist A1, Duelist B1, and Duelist C1) and Team 2 (Duelist A2, Duelist B2, and Duelist C2) play each other in Round 1.
At the end of the Round, the teams compare Match wins.
Since Team 1 has 2 Match wins, Team 1 wins the Round.
Q: What is the Duelist League and what are the rules? A: The Duelist League is intended for younger Duelists or Duelists that are not familiar with Yu-Gi-Oh! tournaments. The Duelist League gives them a chance to experience tournament play without all the pressures found in higher level tournaments. The Duelist League is an Advanced Format, Constructed event only playing 3 Rounds of Swiss with no Top Cut. At the end of the Rounds of Swiss the Duelist ranked in 1st place will get to choose 2 Duelist League Rare cards from a random assortment and a Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG branded journal. Then from order of 2nd to 8th place those Duelists will get to choose 1 Duelist League Rare card.
Q: What are the rules for a Rivalry of Warlords Tournament? A: Rivalry of Warlords tournaments will use a pre-built Rivalry of Warlords Deck randomly assigned at the beginning of the tournament. No changes to the Deck are allowed. Duelists will also be given a manual for the Deck. Duelists will then be given 10 minutes to look over their cards and read the manual for their assigned Deck before the start of the tournament. Once the above steps are completed the Duelists will then play against their first-Round opponent in a best 2-out of-3 Match.
Q: What are the rules for a Tag Duel Tournament? A: Besides the 3 vs 3 Team events, Duelists can also pair up to play cooperatively in Tag Duel! Tag Duel Tournaments are Advanced Constructed, Single-Elimination events with no playoff cut. Duelists must register using a Team Registration Form. The Duelist listed as Duelist A will be team captain for administrative purposes. Each team must register a Team Name. The Team Name must be written on the top of the Registration Form. Team Names may not be offensive or disrespectful in any manner. Event Staff reserve the right to request a new team name if they feel the name may be inappropriate.
Here are the basic rules:
Example of Play Duelists on the same team sit beside each other, with Duelist A seated to the right of Duelist B. Team 1 consists of Duelists 1A & 1B and Team 2 consists of Duelists 2A & 2B. The Turn order starts with Duelist A on the Team that chose to go first and then alternates between teams. See example below with Team 1 going first.
Attacking The active Duelist can only attack with Attack Position monsters that they control. Duelists may not attack with their teammate’s monsters. If there is a monster on the opponent’s side of the field (in either Duelist’s Main/Extra Monster Card Zones) then it must be destroyed before attacking the opponent’s life points directly. The first 3 Duelists of the Duel (see above, Duelists 1A, 2A and 1B) cannot conduct their Battle Phase and cannot attack on their first turns. Additional Rules and Card Effect interaction examples can be found here on the Alternate Tournament Format Page.
Q: What are the rules for a Structure Deck Tournament? A:
Q: What are the rules for a Time Wizard Tournament? New A: Time Wizard events use the available Cards, Forbidden & Limited List, rule regarding drawing on the first turn, and the Dueling Field of the selected Time Wizard format. Starting at the NAWCQ, current Game Mechanics and current card text will be used for Time Wizard Events. There will primarily be three Time Wizard formats offered as Public Events at the North America WCQ 2025 The first format will use the April 2014 Forbidden and Limited List, and the last legal set will be Realm of Light Structure Deck. This will be the “April 2014” format Time Wizard event. (This format will be used for the Time Wizard ATTACK OF THE GIANT CARD!! Public Event) The second format will use the March 2010 Forbidden and Limited List, and the last legal set will be Duelist Pack: Kaiba. This will be the “April 2010” format Time Wizard event. The third format will use the April 2005 Forbidden and Limited List, and the last legal set will be Dark Beginnings 2. This will be the “July 2005” format Time Wizard event. While these three formats will be the primary formats offered, they aren’t the only formats possible! If you and your friends would like to play a different format, come chat with event staff at Public Events to get your preferred format started!
Q: What are the Rules for the Charity Tournament? A: Duelists will pay $22.00 USD to receive four (4) tournament packs and registration in the event. This is the cost of four (4) tournament packs in the local currency, including any taxes and fees. The money collected from the Yu-Gi-Oh! Charity Tournament will be donated to the Red Cross International for their continuing efforts to help with disaster relief.
Q: What are the rules for a Speed Duel Constructed Tournament? A: Duelists can bring their own Speed Duel Deck and play in a Constructed Speed Duel event.
To build your own Constructed Speed Duel Deck, you will need to follow these requirements before entering an event.
Duelists can review the Speed Duel Policy Document here; https://www.yugioh-card.com/en/downloads/penalty_guide/Speed_Duel_Addendum-Official_KDE-US_YGO_TCG_Policy.pdf In addition to the Speed Duel Policy Document, Speed Duelists should be aware of Skill Card Text and Skill Card Rules updates. These changes can be reviewed here: https://yugiohblog.konami.com/2021/11/skillcard-update/.
Q: What is the Speed Duel Public Events Limited List for the North America WCQ 2025? A: The Speed Duel Limited List works like the DUEL LINKS Forbidden and Limited List.
Forbidden: None of the following cards can be used.
Limited 1: Only 1 of the following cards out of all the cards that are “Limited 1” can be used in your Deck & Side Deck.
Limited 2: Only 2 of the following cards out of all the cards that are “Limited 2” can be used in your Deck & Side Deck.
Limited 3: Only 3 of the following cards out of all the cards that are “Limited 3” can be used in your Deck & Side Deck.
For Limited 1, you can only choose 1 of the listed cards to have in your Deck. If you choose 1 you cannot use any of the others.
For Limited 2, you can choose up to 2 of the listed cards to use in your Deck. Whichever 2 cards you choose, you will not be able to use any of the others. You can choose to have multiple copies of the same card if you like, but they will count towards the total limited number.
For Limited 3, you can choose up to 3 of the listed cards to use in your Deck. Whichever 3 cards you choose, you will not be able to use any of the others. You can choose to have multiple copies of the same card if you like, but they will count towards the total limited number
Q: What are the rules for a DUEL LINKS Tournament? A: This event allows you to use your own device and connect to others for a DUEL LINKS format, Single-Elimination event. Test your Deck builds in a Duel using the latest DUEL LINKS Forbidden and Limited restrictions to compete for DUEL LINKS Prize Patches and the 1st place Pin (while supplies last)!
Between each Duel, you may use your Side Deck to alter your Deck for the next Duel.
In case of a disconnect, win/loss will be determined by the result given in-game. If the app crashes, or both Duelists disconnect simultaneously and a win is not decided, the Duelists will restart that Duel using the same Decks. Side Decking will not be allowed for that specific Duel. Instructions on how the competitors can connect to the in-game Tournament Room will be provided once you are seated for the events. Duelists will need to have the latest DUEL LINKS app installed on their device and reached Stage 4 or higher to participate in Tournaments. The current version at the time of posting is v. 9.8.0.
Q: What are the Rules for a MASTER DUEL Tournament? NEW* A: This event allows you to use your own device and connect to others remotely for a MASTER DUEL format, Single-Elimination event. Test your Deck builds in a Duel using the latest MASTER DUEL Forbidden and Limited restrictions to compete for MASTER DUEL Prizes (while supplies last)!
If the Duelist believes there is an error or other issue with their Decks, they should contact a Judge immediately. If there are any issues during Deck Selection or connecting to the room after confirming you are ready for your next Duel, please notify a judge immediately. In case of a disconnect, win/loss will be determined by the result given in-game. If the app crashes, or both Duelists disconnect simultaneously and a win is not decided, the Duelists will restart that Duel using the same Decks. Deck Selection will not be allowed for that specific Duel. Instructions on how Duelists can connect to the in-game Tournament Room will be provided once you are seated for the events. Duelists will need to have the latest MASTER DUEL app installed on their device to participate in Tournaments. Your device will ask you to update to the latest version, if you do not have the latest version.
Q: How long will each Match last? A: Each Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG Match will be a best 2-out-of-3 Duel with a 45-minute time limit. The time limit for the Top Cut Single-Elimination playoff Rounds are as follows:
Each Speed Duel Match will be a best 2-out-of-3 Duel with a 40-minute time limit. Each DUEL LINKS Match will be a best 2-out-of-3 Duel with a 45-minute time limit. Each MASTER DUEL Match will be a best 2-out-of-3 Duel with a 50-minute time limit.
Q: What is the Public Events playoff? A: The Public Events playoff gives 8 hopeful Duelists a chance to win their very own copy of the coveted YCS Prize Card! There are two different playoffs, each of which awards the YCS Prize Card to the winner. Playoff 1: The four Duelists who have accumulated the highest number of Public Event points will play two Rounds of Single-Elimination to determine a winner, who will receive a Super Rare copy of the YCS Prize Card. In case of a points total tie, the selection will be made by random drawing from the tied competitors. Playoff 2: Four names will be drawn at random from all Public Events entrants over the course of the weekend. These four competitors will then play two Rounds of Single-Elimination to determine a winner, who will receive a Super Rare copy of the YCS Prize Card.
Q: What is the Prize Wall? A: The Prize Wall is an extension of Public Events! In addition to earning prizes for participating in these tournaments, Duelists will also receive prize tickets. You can spend these prize tickets at the Prize Wall for items offered. These items are subject to change, availability and while supplies last. How do I earn Prize Tickets?
Public Event prize wall tickets have no monetary value and are not for sale. Prize wall tickets given out at this event can only be redeemed at the North America WCQ. |
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North America WCQ 2024 FAQ's |
North America World Championship Qualifier 2024 FAQ’s World Qualifying Points Playoff (Friday July 11th, 2025)
North America WCQ 2025 Information
North America WCQ 2025 Registration Information
North America Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG Dragon Duel Championship Information
North America Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG Dragon Duel Championship Registration Information
Invitations
Card Legality
Public Events
Miscellaneous
World Qualifying Points (WQP) Playoff (Friday July 11th, 2025) A: World Qualifying Points are a way to earn an invite to the Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG World Championship 2025 outside of the WCQ. Duelists who earn WCQ invites throughout the course of the 2024-2025 Organized Play Season, and accurately complete their WCQ Invite Forms, will also earn “World Qualifying Points” which gives Duelists a chance to compete in a World Qualifying Points Playoff that awards the Top 2 Duelists with an invite to the Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG World Championship 2025.
Q: What is the North America World Qualifying Points Playoff and how do I qualify to play in it? A: Throughout the course of the 2024-2025 Organized Play season, Duelists have been earning World Qualifying Points by competing at Regional Qualifiers, Dragon Duels, OTS Championships, Nationals in Latin America, and at the Yu-Gi-Oh! Championship Series. Whenever a Duelist places high enough in those events to earn an invite to the WCQ, they earn World Qualifying Points based on their standing. On Friday, July 11th at the NAWCQ, the Top 16 Points earners from the 2024-2025 Organized Play season are eligible to register for this special playoff tournament. Eligible Duelists can check in and register for the World Qualifying Points Playoff between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM. The event is scheduled to begin at 11:00 AM. You can find instructions to view the Top Points earners for the 2024-2025 Organized Play season here: https://www.yugioh-card.com/en/events/wqp/ Deck Lists will be required when you register for the World Qualifying Points Playoff. Registration will be online, and your Deck List must be submitted online. You can prepare your Deck List ahead of time at https://registration.yugioh-card.com/ to have them ready when you register. Eligible Duelists must be present to claim their spot to compete. If any of the Top 16 Points earners are not present to play, the Playoff spot will then be given to the next ranked Duelist who is present (17th, and so on) until all spots are filled or at 11:30 AM Friday July 11th (whichever comes first). Duelists must register and be present no later than 11:00 AM in order to be called if there is an open spot. We encourage any of the Top 32 Points earners from the 2024-2025 season to check in between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM so that we can quickly fill any open spots if needed. The 16 Duelists from the 2024-2025 season who attend the NAWCQ and register and claim their spot for the World Qualifying Points Playoff will then play in an Advanced Constructed, Single-Elimination Tournament. The Top 2 Duelists from the Playoff will win an invite to the Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG World Championship 2025, held August 29-31, 2025 in Paris, France. Here is a link to the World Qualifying Points FAQ for further information: https://www.yugioh-card.com/en/events/wqp/
Q: When is registration for the World Qualifying Points Playoff? A: Registration will be open on Friday July 11th from 10:00AM until 11:00AM. The WQP Playoff will start at the close of registration. Late entries will not be accepted.
Q: If I do not win the World Qualifying Points Playoff and want to play in the North America WCQ 2025, can I still get the Pre-Registration Items? A: Yes, you will be able to register online for the NAWCQ. You must register online to receive all of the pre-registration items, while supplies last.
Q: If I choose to play in the WCQ, am I able to use a different Deck than I used for the World Qualifying Points Playoff? A: Yes, you may change your Deck. You will need to submit a Deck List on the Registration Portal before you check in for the WCQ. It can be the same Deck as the WQP Playoff or a different Deck.
Q: How many Duelists will the World Qualifying Points Playoff have? A: The WQP Playoff will have a total of 16 Duelists.
Q: Do I win anything for competing in the World Qualifying Points Playoff? A: Yes! All participants in the WQP Playoff will receive:
Participants who did not earn one of the invites to the World Championship via the Playoff can still play in the WCQ to earn an invite via the WCQ. The winners of the Playoffs can also compete in the North America WCQ for additional prizing. If a Duelist finishes in the Top 2 of the Worlds Qualifying Points Playoff and in the Top 4 of the North America WCQ, the invite will automatically pass down to the next eligible Duelist in the North America WCQ 2025.
Q: When will I receive my participation prize for the World Qualifying Points Playoff? A: Prizing will be awarded as Duelists are eliminated from the WQP Playoff.
Q: How much does it cost to enter the World Qualifying Points Playoff? A: Entry into the WQP Playoff is free for all qualified Duelists.
Q: What is the format for the World Qualifying Points Playoff? A: The WQP Playoff will be played Advance Constructed – Single Elimination, which means each Duelist must bring his or her own Deck in order to compete. Decks must be constructed according to the latest Advanced Format guidelines. (See here for more information: http://www.yugioh-card.com/en/limited/.) You will need to make sure your Deck matches the current format.
Q: How many Rounds will the World Qualifying Points Playoff have? A: The WQP Playoff will be 3 Rounds of Single-Elimination. The 2 Top 4 Matches will be played separately so there will be 4 Rounds shown on the Livestream.
North America WCQ 2025 Information
Q: What happens at the North America WCQ 2025? A: The North America WCQ 2025 is an invite-only tournament, where Duelists will attend to compete for exclusive prizes and the chance to become the 2025 North America Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG Champion. The North America WCQ 2025 is a 3-day event. On Friday, July 11th, Duelists that already have a WCQ Invite must check in no later than 5:00 PM ET to collect their Participation Prizes and enroll in the Tournament. If you do not check in on Friday between the hours stated, your registration will be automatically cancelled to allow for on-site registration.* *If you are not able to check in on Friday, July 11th, 2025, prior to 5:00 PM ET due to travel or other issues, you will need to contact the Tournament Organizer at ygoreg@thesidedeck.com no later than 11:00 AM ET on Friday, July 11th to make alternative check-in arrangements. Also on Friday, Duelists who have not qualified for the North America WCQ 2025 can play in Last Chance Qualifiers to earn an invite to the North America WCQ 2025 (Last Chance Qualifiers begin at 9:00 AM on Friday, July 11th). The actual North America WCQ 2025 itself will begin on Saturday, July 12th. In addition to the North America WCQ 2025, there will be numerous Public Events to participate in during Saturday and Sunday.
Q: When is the North America WCQ 2025?? A: Mandatory On-site Check In: July 11th, 2025
Q: Where is the North America WCQ 2025? A: Indiana Convention Center
Q: What time does the North America WCQ 2025 start? July 11th 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM: Last Chance Qualifiers for the North America WCQ 2025 July 12th 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM: Mandatory On-Site Check-In if you did not check in on Friday July 13th 9:00 AM: Start of the North America WCQ 2025 – Day 2
Q: Do I need an invite to participate in the North America WCQ 2025? A: Yes, all Duelists wishing to compete in the North America WCQ 2025 will need to have earned an invite at any of the following:
REMEMBER! If you were not able to earn an invite at any of the Events mentioned above, you can still play in Last Chance Qualifiers to earn an invite for the North America WCQ 2025 from 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM on Friday, July 11th. A list of Duelists with Invites can be found on Yu-Gi-Oh! NEURON (KONAMI CARD GAME NETWORK) (KCGN) (https://cardgame-network.konami.net/). You will need to log in to your KONAMI ID in order to view the invite list. After you log in, you can find the invite list under the Notifications section of KCGN. If you have a question about your invite status, you can email us-opsupport@kde-us.com and ask. Please provide your full name, CARD GAME ID number, date and location of the event at which you qualified, along with your question, so we can answer you quickly and efficiently. Aside from the World Qualifying Points Playoff and WCQ, anyone wishing to attend the North America WCQ 2025 to spectate or take part in any of the Public Events or Attractions do not need an invite to do that as the hall is open to the public and all are welcome to enter.
Q: What are the prizes for the North America WCQ 2025? A:
*In addition to the other prizes earned, the Top 4 Duelists of the WCQ and the Top 2 Duelists of the World Qualifying Points Playoff will also receive complimentary travel and accommodations to the Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG World Championship 2025. Travel and accommodations will also be provided for one (1) parent or legal guardian for any Duelist age 17 or under. Please note that the Yu-Gi-Oh! World Championship 2025 will be held in Paris, France and a valid passport that expires no earlier than April 1st, 2026 will be required to travel. If you earn an invite to the Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG World Championship 2025 and do not have a passport, you must start the process right away. For the United States the average wait time for routine processing for passports is 3 to 6 weeks not including mailing time, expedited processing is 2 to 3 weeks. Urgent travel processing may be available for in person applications. For Canadian passports, the average wait time for the in person application is 10 business days, by mail is 20 business days, and express pick up is 2 to 9 business days. Urgent pick up may be an option as well. Keep in mind these are just average time, your wait time may be longer. KDE-US will not be responsible for your passport and cannot guarantee a passport appointment in time for the Yu-Gi-Oh! World Championship 2025. If a passport is not secured by July 30th, 2025 we will need to pass the invite down to the next eligible Duelist that has a current passport and is ready for travel into France. Invites for the Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG World Championship 2025 will pass down through the Top 16. If no Duelists in the Top 16 have the necessary documentation, then the invite will be forfeited.
**The WCQ Promo Card will be awarded based on final attendance:
Q: Are there any pack prizes? A: The Top 16 of the North America WCQ 2025 will receive booster pack prizes. Please refer to the prizing section above for information on all prizes that will be awarded at the North America WCQ 2025.
Q: What is the format for the North America WCQ 2025? A: World Championship Qualifier tournaments are Constructed events, which means each Duelist must bring his or her own Deck in order to compete. Decks must be constructed according to the latest Advanced Format guidelines. (See here for more information: http://www.yugioh-card.com/en/limited/.) You will need to make sure your Deck matches the current format.
Q: How many Rounds will the North America WCQ 2025 have? A: The total number of Duelists will determine the number of Rounds that are played.
Q: How many Duelists will advance to Day 2? A: If there are 512 Duelists or fewer registered for the NAWCQ, then the Top 64 will advance to Day 2. If there are 513 – 1024 Duelists registered for the NAWCQ, then the Top 128 Duelists OR all Duelists with a minimum of 16 Points, whichever number is larger, will advance to Day 2. If there are 1025 – 2048 Duelists registered for the NAWCQ, then the Top 128 Duelists OR all Duelists with a minimum of 19 Points, whichever number is larger, will advance to Day 2. If there are 2049 or more Duelists registered for the NAWCQ, then the Top 256 Duelists OR all Duelists with a minimum of 19 Points, whichever number is larger, will advance to Day 2.
Q: How many Duelists will advance to the Top Cut? A: If there are 129 or more Duelists registered for the North America WCQ 2025, the tournament will cut to Top 64 after all Rounds of Swiss are completed.
Q: What will I need to bring to the North America WCQ 2025 tournament? A: You should bring a tournament-legal Deck as described in the Card Legality section below, along with any tournament supplies you will need, such as paper and pen to track Life Points, dice or counters if you are using cards which require them, extra sleeves to replace any that become damaged, and so forth. If you have a CARD GAME ID number, you should bring your number. You should bring a form of personal identification with a picture as well as money for your incidentals (food, drinks, Public Events, etc.). If you do not have a CARD GAME ID, please see the What is Yu-Gi-Oh! NEURON and how can it help me with obtaining or registering a CARD GAME ID? for instructions on how to get one.
Q: If I’ve never been to a North America WCQ tournament, what should I expect? A: The North America WCQ is a prestigious Yu-Gi-Oh! tournament that attracts the best Duelists in North America. Many Duelists travel great distances to attend the North America WCQ, so you can expect to meet hundreds of fellow Yu-Gi-Oh! fans from all over North America. There are a lot of things you should do to make sure you are prepared before heading to the tournament. Read over the list of things you will need for the tournament, and make sure you have everything. Duelists are responsible for paying attention to information from judges and/or tournament staff in order to understand what is going on. If Duelists have questions about the event either beforehand or while they are there, they should check with the Event Manager. Before heading to the event, all Duelists should read over the KDE-US Tournament Policy and Penalty Guidelines carefully. These documents tell you what you can and cannot do at an event and give you a good idea of what to expect. You may find these guidelines by clicking the following links.
KDE-US Official Yu-Gi-Oh! TRADING CARD GAME Tournament Policy: https://www.yugioh-card.com/en/downloads/penalty_guide/YGOTCG_Policy_v_2_3.pdf Tournament Infractions and Penalties Policy: https://img.yugioh-card.com/en/downloads/penalty_guide/Penalty_Guidelines_v_2_2.pdf
Remember, there is much more to do at the North America WCQ 2025 than just compete in the Main Event. There are lots of Public Events, vendors buying and selling cards, and other Duelists to trade with. Read over the FAQ carefully, and you’ll be off to a great start. Public Events will be available as space opens up from the Main Event.
Q: Does KDE-US and/or its agents perform filming and photography at these events? A: Yes by entering the premise of this event you agree to the following: When you enter a Yu-Gi-Oh! event or program, you are entering an area where photography, audio, and video recording may occur. By entering the event premises, you consent to photography, audio recording, interviews, video recording and its/their release, publication, exhibition, or reproduction to be used for promotional purposes, webcasts, telecasts, advertising, inclusion on websites, social media, or any other purpose by KONAMI, its affiliates and representatives. Images, photos and/or videos may be used to promote Yu-Gi-Oh! or KONAMI events in the future, to highlight the event and promote Yu-Gi-Oh! and KONAMI properties. You release KONAMI, its employees, representatives and all persons involved from any liability connected with the taking, recording, digitizing, or publication and use of photographs, computer images, video and/or sound recordings. By entering the event premises, you waive any rights you may have to any claims for payment or royalties in connection with any use, exhibition, streaming, web casting, televising, or other publication of these materials, regardless of the purpose or sponsoring of such use, exhibiting, broadcasting, web casting, or other publication, irrespective of whether a fee for admission or sponsorship is charged. You also waive any right to inspect or approve any photo, video, or audio recording taken by KONAMI, its agents or representatives. You have been fully informed of your consent, waiver of liability and release before entering the event. If you do not wish to be recorded or photographed, please do not enter the premises.
Q: I will be bringing my children to the North America WCQ 2025. Is there anything I should know? A: We will have a Parents’ Lounge available, where parents can relax while their children are occupied in the tournament. This area is open only to parents and their children. You are not required to stay on site, but we strongly recommend that you do, especially if your children are young or if this is their first event. Please know that the tournament staff cannot be responsible for looking after your children, or their possessions. Always make sure your child has a way to contact you, and is provided with any necessities such as food, drink, or extra money if you do not wish to remain in the tournament area. When your child is preparing for the event, encourage him or her to leave any bulky or expensive possessions at home. Electronics and large collections of cards are hard to keep track of during a big tournament – your child will have a much easier day without having to worry about these kinds of items. Trading cards are a big attraction at large tournaments, but if you are concerned about your child trading away valuable cards, talk to him or her before the event and set some guidelines. You can always have your child check with you before making a trade.
Q: Will the North America WCQ 2025 have the Bounty Feature? A: No, there will be no bounty feature at the North America WCQ 2025.
Q: I won a Yu-Gi-Oh! Championship Series (YCS) or Remote Duel YCS event during the 2024-2025 qualifying season. Are there any perks for me at the North America WCQ 2025? A: All Duelists who have won a Yu-Gi-Oh! Championship Series during the 2024 – 2025 qualifying seasons, all World Qualifying Playoff 2025 participants and any Ultimate Duelist Series Invitational Champions will receive VIP status and preferred seating at the North America WCQ 2025. VIP Duelists will begin the tournament with a 2-Round BYE. Ultimate Duelist Series Invitational Champions are required to bring and present their UDS Championship Belt in order to receive VIP status. Duelists who are eligible for VIP status will need to check in at the VIP station on Friday July 11th, 2025 between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM. VIPs will receive all participation items for the North America WCQ 2025 regardless of when they register, while supplies last.
Q: Will there be meal breaks during the tournament? A: There will be no meal break but there will be food options available within the exhibit hall.
Q: What if someone who came with me does not know how to play? A: If someone who is attending the North America WCQ 2025 does not know how to play the Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG, do not worry. We will have capable volunteers on site who will be more than happy to teach them how to play.
Q: What happens if I am not done with my Match when time is called in the Round? A: Sometimes a Match will not be finished when the time ends for a Round. If this happens, it is both Duelists’ responsibility to note whose turn it is when time is called. Duelists who require assistance with the End of Match procedures, should raise their hand and call for a Judge. The Judge should be notified that the Match is ongoing and whose turn it is. The judge may or may not stay to supervise the End of Match procedure but should ensure that both Duelists understand the following procedures. End of Match procedures should follow these three (3) rules:
Rule #1: If time is called while Duelists are in the middle of a Game, the current Game must have a decision (Win, Loss, or Draw) Rule #2: Once the current Game has concluded with a decision, determine the winner of the Match by determining the number of Game Wins (or Game Losses) each Duelist has for the current Match. The Duelist with the most Game Wins will win the Match. Swiss Rounds: If both Duelists have the same number of Game Wins, or if time was called in between games of a Match when both Duelists had the same number of Game Wins, then the Match is a Draw. Single-Elimination Rounds: If both Duelists have the same number of Game Wins, or if time is called in between Games of a Match while both Duelists have the same number of Game Wins, they will begin a new Duel with specific guidelines.
Rule #3: If a win condition occurs during End of Match Procedures, that Duelist wins the current Game.
Keeping these three (3) rules in mind, please follow these instructions when proceeding to End of Match procedures:
Match Draws cannot occur during Single-Elimination Rounds.
Q: What Security information should I know for the event? A: There will be security personnel and local police onsite at the NAWCQ. Due to higher attendances at events like this, please give yourself extra time to make it through any security check before entering the hall.
Q: Will Duelist’s Advance be legal for the North America WCQ 2025? A: Yes, Duelist’s Advance will be legal for the NAWCQ 2025 in Indianapolis, IN.
Q: What cool things are there to do at the North America WCQ? A: We have a lot of extra activities this year! Make your own personalized Yu-Gi-Oh! Token card (now with all-new designs) at our green-screen photo station! And take some time to enjoy the MEGA DUEL – play with mega-sized cards on a mega-sized mat! This is always a fun and popular activity.
Q: Who should I contact if I have questions about the North America WCQ? A: KONAMI Representative Email: us-opupport@konami.com Tournament Organizer: The Side Deck Email: Info@thesidedeck.com NAWCQ Registration Email: ygoreg@thesidedeck.com NADDC Registration Email: ygoreg@thesidedeck.com
Q: Will there be coverage at the North America WCQ? A: Yes! Featured Matches will be livestreamed and there will also be online coverage and other updates at the NAWCQ 2025 available here: Event Coverage blog – Event updates, Quick Questions, Pairings, and Standings Livestream of Feature Matches and the Top Cut Matches will be streamed on our YouTube and Twitch channels. These channels can be found at: Q: I want to vend at the North America WCQ, who should I contact and by when? A: Due to the prestige of the NAWCQ, vending space is provided at the NAWCQ to invited OTS only. KDE-US will reach out directly to all invited OTS to offer the opportunity to vend at the NAWCQ. No applications to vend will be accepted for this event. Anyone buying and/or selling as an unauthorized vendor at the event venue risk incurring penalties, including but not limited to, being disqualified and removed from the event, suspensions from KONAMI Organized Play, and suspension as an Official Tournament Store.
North America WCQ 2025 Registration Information Q: When can I register for the North America WCQ 2025? A: Online Registration for the NAWCQ is now open. Online registration will remain open until either all available seats in the NAWCQ and NADDC are “sold out” or until Friday July 11, 2025 at 8:00 AM ET (whichever comes first). If all available seats in either the NAWCQ or NADDC are not taken by Online Registration, then there will be a chance to register for either event on-site at the venue on Friday July 11, 2025 between 12:00 PM and 7:00PM ET.
Remember, there is no guarantee there will be any on-site Registration for the NAWCQ. There will be social media posts and an update to the FAQ if the NAWCQ fills up all seats before the event because of online registration.
*** Schedules are subject to change and may be updated before the event begins. *** *** Online Registration is open till the End Time and Date listed above or until available seats sell out, whichever comes first. *** *** Deck Lists MUST be submitted by the Deck List Due Date via the website where you registered if you register online. *** *** On-Site Registration is only available if the event does not “sell out” via Online Registration. ***
Q: If I registered and can no longer attend, do I have to notify anyone? A: Yes. Any Duelist that does not attend the North America WCQ and does not reach out to the registration website team before Friday, July 11th, to notify that they won’t be able to attend will be blocked from registering online for future Tier 3 events. If you preregistered but are no longer attending, please reach out to the Tournament Organizer at ygoreg@thesidedeck.com and let the registration staff know that you will not make it to the event. IMPORTANT!! Participation items will only be awarded to Duelists that complete the check-in process at the event.
Q: Do I receive any items for registering online? A: Yes! As an added incentive to register for the North America WCQ online, Duelists will receive one of the NEW! pre-registration coins, while supplies last.
NEW! pre-registration coins This coin is in addition to the World Championship Qualifier 2025 Sleeves
WCQ Participation Game Mat
WCQ Participation Sleeves
Q: What will I need to bring in order to check in? A: Make sure you have all of the following, in order to check in for the North America WCQ:
Q: When will I receive my participation prizes? A: You will receive your participation prizes when you check in for the North America WCQ. Please keep in mind that these items are participation prizes – you must attend the North America WCQ as a participant in order to receive them. They cannot be mailed to you or picked up on your behalf.
North America Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG Dragon Duel Championship Information Q: What happens at the North America Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG Dragon Duel Championship? A: The North America Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG Dragon Duel Championship is an event open to all Dragon Duelists that are residents of North America, where Duelists born in 2011 or later will compete for exclusive prizes and the chance to become the undisputed North America Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG Dragon Duel Champion. If a Dragon Duelist earned an invite through a Dragon Duel tournament at a Regional Qualifier or Yu-Gi-Oh! Championship Series (YCS) event, they can choose to participate in the all-ages North America WCQ instead of the Dragon Duel Championship. The Dragon Duelist would not be able to participate in both events. In addition to the North America Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG Dragon Duel Championship, there will be numerous Public Events to participate in during Saturday and Sunday.
Q: Do I need an invite to participate in the North America Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG Dragon Duel Championship? A: The Dragon Duel Championship will not require an invite to enter. Any Dragon Duelist meeting the age requirement for the season can participate. If a Dragon Duelist earned an invite at a Dragon Duel tournament hosted at select Regional Qualifiers, YCS events throughout the Americas, or a Dragon Duel Last Qualifier held at NAWCQ they have the choice to use that invite for the all ages WCQ, which are open to all Duelists with an invite, or participate in the Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG Dragon Duel Championship.
Q: What are the prizes for the North America Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG Dragon Duel Championship? A:
*In addition to the prizes for 1st place, Duelists will also receive complimentary travel and accommodations to Jump Festa. Travel and accommodations will also be provided for one (1) parent or legal guardian. Jump Festa is a manga and anime convention celebrating titles from the publisher, Shueisha, Inc., including Yu-Gi-Oh!. Immerse yourself in the many great titles published by Shueisha, and explore the numerous booths dedicated to these great titles. More information can be found at https://www.jumpfesta.com/ (site is in Japanese). If Jump Festa is not held for any reason, alternate prizing will be made available to the winner of the Dragon Duel Championship and a parent or legal guardian instead once it is known Jump Festa will not be held, and will be included in the event FAQ if possible. Duelists and their legal guardian will also be invited to spend a full day at an Amusement Park in Tokyo, Japan on the Sunday.
Q: Are there any pack prizes at the North America Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG Dragon Duel Championship? A: The Top 8 of the event will receive booster pack prizes. Please refer to the prizing section for information on all prizes that will be awarded at the North America Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG Dragon Duel Championship.
Q: What is the format for the North America Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG Dragon Duel Championship? A: The North America Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG Dragon Duel Championship is a Constructed event, which means each Duelist must bring his or her own Deck to compete. Decks must be constructed per the latest Advanced Format guidelines. See here for more information: https://www.yugioh-card.com/en/limited/index.html. The Forbidden & Limited List is updated periodically; refer to the “UPDATED” date on that page to ensure your Deck matches the current format.
Q: How many Rounds will the North America Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG Dragon Duel Championship have? A: The total number of Duelists will determine the number of Rounds that are played.
Q: How many Duelists will advance to the Top Cut Playoff on Day 2? A: If there are 4 – 16 Dragon Duelists registered for the NADDC, then the Top 4 Dragon Duelists will advance to Day 2. If there are 17 – 32 Dragon Duelists registered for the NADDC, then the Top 8 Dragon Duelists will advance to Day 2. If there are 33 – 64 Dragon Duelists registered for the NADDC, then the Top 16 Dragon Duelists will advance to Day 2. If there are 65 – 128 Dragon Duelists registered for the NADDC, then the Top 32 Dragon Duelists will advance to Day 2. If there are 129 – 256 Dragon Duelists registered for the NADDC, then the Top 64 Dragon Duelists will advance to Day 2. If there are 257 or more Dragon Duelists registered for the NADDC, then the Top 128 Dragon Duelists OR all Dragon Duelists with a minimum of 13 Points, whichever number is larger, will advance to Day 2.
Q: What will I need to bring to the North America Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG Dragon Duel Championship tournament? A: You should bring a tournament-legal Deck as described in the Card Legality section below, along with any tournament supplies you will need, such as paper and pen to track Life Points, dice or counters if you are using cards which require them, extra sleeves to replace any that become damaged, and so forth. If you have a CARD GAME ID number, you should bring your number. You should bring a form of personal identification with a picture as well as money for your incidentals (food, drinks, Public Events, etc.). If you do not have a CARD GAME ID, please see the What is Yu-Gi-Oh! NEURON and how can it help me with obtaining or registering a CARD GAME ID? for instructions on how to get one.
Q: If I’ve never been to a North America Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG Dragon Duel Championship tournament, what should I expect? A: The North America Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG Dragon Duel Championship is a prestigious Yu-Gi-Oh! tournament that attracts the best Dragon Duelists in North America. Many Duelists travel great distances to attend the North America Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG Dragon Duel Championship, so you can expect to meet hundreds of fellow Yu-Gi-Oh! fans from all over North America. There are a lot of things you should do to make sure you are prepared before heading to the tournament. Read over the list of things you will need for the tournament, and make sure you have everything. Online Registration for the NADDC is open now. Online registration will remain open until either all available seats in the NADDC until Friday July 11, 2025 at 8:00 AM ET. If all available seats in the NADDC are not taken by Online Registration, then there will be a chance to register on-site at the venue on Friday July 11, 2025 between 12:00 PM and 5:00PM ET.
Remember, there is no guarantee there will be any on-site Registration for the NADDC. There will be social media posts and an update to the FAQ if the NADDC fill up all seats before the event because of online registration.
*** Schedules are subject to change and may be updated before the event begins. *** *** Online Registration is open till the End Time and Date listed above or until available seats sell out, whichever comes first. *** *** Deck Lists MUST be submitted by the Deck List Due Date via the website where you registered if you register online. *** *** On-Site Registration is only available if the event does not “sell out” via Online Registration. *** Duelists who qualified for the NAWCQ may choose to play in the NAWCQ instead of the NADDC. If a Dragon Duelist does decide to play in the all-ages NAWCQ, they will still need to register online. Dragon Duelists may not register and/or participate in both events. A Dragon Duelist who is caught entering both events will be Disqualified and will not be able to compete in any other events, including Public Events, at the NAWCQ. You will also need a CARD GAME ID – this is the ID number used to track you in the tournament. If you don’t already have one, you will be able to get one at the tournament. If you have a CARD GAME ID and have lost or forgotten it, you can ask the CARD GAME ID station to look it up for you. If you’ve played in a previous event, they may be able to retrieve your number. The CARD GAME ID station is kept separately from the Registration stations, so if you do not have a CARD GAME ID number or need it looked up, be sure to go to the CARD GAME ID station before getting in line to register. If you do not have a CARD GAME ID, please see the What is Yu-Gi-Oh! NEURON and how can it help me with obtaining or registering a CARD GAME ID? for instructions on how to get one. Duelists are responsible for paying attention to information from judges and/or tournament staff in order to understand what is going on. If Duelists have questions about the event either beforehand or while they are there, they should check with the Event Manager. Before heading to the event, all Duelists should read over the KDE-US Tournament Policy and Penalty Guidelines carefully. These documents tell you what you can and cannot do at an event and give you a good idea of what to expect. You may find these guidelines by clicking the following links.
KDE-US Official Yu-Gi-Oh! TRADING CARD GAME Tournament Policy: Tournament Infractions and Penalties Policy:
Remember, there is much more to do at the North America Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG Dragon Duel Championship than just compete in the Dragon Duel Championship or the Main Event. There are lots of Public Events, vendors buying and selling cards, and other Duelists to trade with. Read over the FAQ carefully, and you’ll be off to a great start. Public Events will be available as space opens up from the Main Event and the Dragon Duel Championship.
Q: Will the North America Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG Dragon Duel Championship have the Bounty Feature? A: No, there will be no bounty feature at the North America Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG Dragon Duel Championship.
Q: Will there be meal breaks during the tournament? A: There will be a meal break after Round 2 on Saturday.
Q: What if someone who came with me does not know how to play? A: If someone who is attending the event does not know how to play Yu-Gi-Oh!, do not worry. We will have capable volunteers on site who will be more than happy to teach them how to play.
Q: What happens if I am not done with my Match when time is called in the Round? A: Sometimes a Match will not be finished when the time ends for a Round. If this happens, it is both Duelists’ responsibility to note whose turn it is when time is called. Duelists who require assistance with the End of Match procedures, should raise their hand and call for a Judge. The Judge should be notified that the Match is ongoing and whose turn it is. The judge may or may not stay to supervise the End of Match procedure but should ensure that both Duelists understand the following procedures. End of Match procedures should follow these three (3) rules: Rule #1: If time is called while Duelists are in the middle of a Game, the current Game must have a decision (Win, Loss, or Draw) Rule #2: Once the current Game has concluded with a decision, determine the winner of the Match by determining the number of Game Wins (or Game Losses) each Duelist has for the current Match. The Duelist with the most Game Wins will win the Match. Swiss Rounds: If both Duelists have the same number of Game Wins, or if time was called in between games of a Match when both Duelists had the same number of Game Wins, then the Match is a Draw. Single-Elimination Rounds: If both Duelists have the same number of Game Wins, or if time is called in between Games of a Match while both Duelists have the same number of Game Wins, they will begin a new Duel with specific guidelines.
Rule #3: If a win condition occurs during End of Match Procedures, that Duelist wins the current Game.
Keeping these three (3) rules in mind, please follow these instructions when proceeding to End of Match procedures:
Match Draws cannot occur during Single-Elimination Rounds.
North America Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG Dragon Duel Championship Registration Information Q: When can I register for the North America Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG Dragon Duel Championship? A: Registration will open on Friday, July 11th from 3:00PM until 7:00PM, and on Saturday, July 12th, from 8:00AM until 9:45AM. We strongly recommend that you register on Friday, to make sure you are ready to play on Saturday. If you register on Friday, you do not need to register again on Saturday. Your Deck List will be collected at Registration. This means that you must have a completed Deck List ready to hand in when you register for the North America Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG Dragon Duel Championship. Once a Deck List has been submitted it can no longer be changed.
Q: What will I need to bring in order to register? A: Make sure you have all of the following, in order to register for the North America Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG Dragon Duel Championship:
Q: When will I receive my participation prizes? A: You will receive your participation prizes at registration for the North America Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG Dragon Duel Championship. Please keep in mind that these items are participation prizes – you must attend the North America Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG Dragon Duel Championship as a participant in order to receive them. They cannot be mailed to you or picked up on your behalf.
Dragon Duel Championship Participation Game Mat
2025 WCQ Sleeves
Invitations Q: Do I need an invitation to participate in the North America WCQ 2025? A: Yes, you must have earned an invite at a Regional Qualifier, Remote Duel Regional Qualifier, Dragon Duel, OTS Championship, Remote Duel Yu-Gi-Oh! Championship Series or Yu-Gi-Oh! Championship Series event in order to participate in the North America WCQ 2025. Duelists who have not yet earned an invite can still play in the Last Chance Qualifiers to earn an invite. Last Chance Qualifiers will take place between 12:00PM – 5:00PM on Friday July 11th in the same tournament venue where the North America WCQ 2025 will be held.
Q: If I qualified in a Dragon Duel tournament (for Duelists born in 2011 or later) can I play in the all-ages North America WCQ 2025? A: If a Dragon Duelist earned an invite at a Dragon Duel tournament hosted at select Regional Qualifiers, WCQ – National events in Latin America, and YCS events throughout the Americas, they have the choice to use that invite for the all ages WCQ, which are open to all Duelists with an invite, or participate in the Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG Dragon Duel Championship.
If you have a question about your invite status, you can email us-opupport@konami.com and ask. Please provide your full name, CARD GAME ID number, date and location of the event at which you qualified, along with your question, so we can answer you quickly and efficiently.
Q: How and when will I receive my Invite? A: You will not receive a physical invitation, or an invitation through e-mail or postal mail – you will be entered into the Invite List database. A list of Duelists with Invites can be found on KCGN (https://cardgame-network.konami.net/). You will need to log in to your KONAMI ID in order to view the invite list. After you log in, you can find the invite list under the Notifications section of KCGN. A full guide on how to access the invite list can be found here: https://www.yugioh-card.com/en/events/rankings/wcq-invite-lists/
Q: What should I do if I can’t find my name on KDE-US’ online Invite List? A: If you have a question about your invite status, you can email us-opupport@konami.com for further information. Please provide your full name, CARD GAME ID number, and the date and location of the event at which you qualified, along with your question, for a quick and efficient response.
Card Legality Q: What cards are legal for play? A: Please check the “Products” page online at https://www.yugioh‐card.com/en/products/ for the most current legality dates of Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG product releases, prior to preparing your Deck for the event. In addition to checking the tournament legality of a product, please check the current Advanced Format Forbidden/Limited list. Certain cards in products with tournament-legal dates can sometimes be excluded from the current format. Cards that have been altered from their original appearance with surface decoration may be used for play only if the alterations do not obscure any portion of the card text, make the illustration difficult to recognize, or make the card distinguishable from other cards in the Deck while it is face-down. If a card’s surface decoration renders the card unrecognizable at first glance, then the card is not allowed for tournament play. The Head Judge of the event has final arbitration on whether or not altered cards may be used at the tournament. Duelists are responsible for determining whether or not their altered cards are acceptable for use before the start of the tournament.
Q: Can I use OCG cards (cards printed for use in Japan and other Asian territories) in my Deck? A: No, cards printed for Asian markets are not legal for play in TCG tournaments, even if you have a translation available. This includes Asian English cards. The best way to determine if a card is legal for TCG tournaments is to check the card back. Located at the bottom right of the card back is the Yu-Gi-Oh! TRADING CARD GAME logo. Please see the table below for more clarification:
Q: Can I use foreign language cards in my Deck? A: You may use foreign-language copies of legal-for-play cards printed for the TCG market, as long as you can show an official translation of the card when asked to do so by an opponent or tournament official. If you are using a card that is not in a local language, you must do one of the following:
Public Events Q: Will there be Public Events? A: Yes, choose the Public Events Schedule from the menu at the top of this FAQ to view the schedule and more information about the Public Events for the North America WCQ 2025!
Miscellaneous Q: I may need assistance to participate at the North America WCQ 2025 due to a disability or recent injury, what should I do? A: Please contact the Tournament Organizer to make the organization aware of your concerns so that between them and the KONAMI representatives you can be provided with a comfortable gaming experience. Company: The Side Deck, LLC E-mail: info@thesidedeck.com If you require assigned seating on site, please notify a registration staff member at the time of registration.
Q: I want to judge at the North America WCQ 2025, instead of competing as a Duelist – how do I request to participate? A: If you’re interested in judging at a Tier 2 or higher event, please visit http://www.yugioh-card.com/en/judges/index.html, for information about how to join the KDE-US Judge Program. All potential judges must pass the online Rulings Comprehension Level 1 test, and then complete an online application to join the Judge Program. Please see the KDE-US Judge Program FAQ for answers to most common questions: https://www.yugioh-card.com/en/judges/judge-FAQ/
Q: Will there be vendors on site so I can buy single cards and supplies and sell my cards? A: There will be several vendors present, selling single cards, sealed product, and card supplies such as sleeves and deck boxes. Vendors will also be buying cards on site.
Q: Can I buy and sell from other people at the event? A: Duelists are not allowed to buy or sell from one another at North America WCQ 2025 venues. If you do so, you risk incurring penalties, including being disqualified and removed from the event. Buying and selling includes all items, not just cards or gaming supplies. Trading is restricted to cards and Yu-Gi-Oh! related item such as playmats and dice – attendees may not bring other merchandise or items to the venue for trading. Attendees may not solicit business, hand out flyers, etc., while at the venue. The Tournament Organizer reserves the right to limit the number of cards that can be brought into the venue for trading.
Q: Where can I get food and drinks during the tournament? A: There will be concessions available in the hall, and plenty of food options around the venue.
Q: When will the schedule for other Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG tournaments be posted? A: For updated information on this event and other events as they become finalized, keep checking www.yugioh-card.com/en/events. There is no set time frame for these announcements; they will be made as the information becomes available.
Q: What is Yu-Gi-Oh! NEURON and how can it help me with obtaining or registering a CARD GAME ID? A: Yu-Gi-Oh! NEURON is an app for iOS and Android Smart devices and can be found on the app store. This app has become the new way to obtain a CARD GAME ID if you are new to participating in events or register an already existing CARD GAME ID if you already had one. For those joining our events for the first time, obtaining a CARD GAME ID is as easy as downloading the app. Once downloaded follow the steps below:
This CARD GAME ID will be used when registering for any TCG Sanctioned events which includes our Tier 1 local events, Tier 2 Regional Qualifiers and OTS Championships, Tier 3 YCS events, and even Tier 4 World Championship Qualifier events. If you already have a CARD GAME ID and would like to register it on the Yu-Gi-Oh! NEURON app, please see one of the registration staff members on-site and they will be able to assist you. If you previously had a COSSY ID, that same number will carry over as your CARD GAME ID. If you do not remember your 10-digit CARD GAME ID, a registration staff member on-site should be able to assist in finding your correct ID. Duelists should avoid acquiring new CARD GAME IDs if the previous ID can be found. Additional details and features of the Yu-Gi-Oh! NEURON app can be found here: https://www.konami.com/yugioh/neuron/en/
Q: What items are prohibited at the North America WCQ 2025? A: Attendees may not bring any items into the tournament venue that are prohibited by law in their area (local, state, or federal). In addition, unlawful items/transactions, weapons of any kind, and substance drugs which may be legal on a local, state, and/or federal level, are not allowed at Sanctioned/Official events. Attendees who bring any such items to a tournament venue will incur penalties, including Disqualification and removal from the event, and risk suspension from KDE-US Organized Play. The use of electronic and/or vapor cigarettes are not permitted on the tournament floor at any Sanctioned/Official events, or in areas designated for tournament attendees.
Q: What if I lost an item at the tournament? Duelists are responsible for looking after their own belongings at the event. KDE-US, Tournament Organizers, Staff, and Judges bear no responsibility for, and cannot be held liable for, any loss, theft or damage to the person or personal property of any attendee. The Tournament Organizer is required to keep lost and found items for at least 60 days after the conclusion of the Event. Duelists who lost items should seek the Lost & Found on-site. If the item is not found on-site, Duelists are encouraged to contact the Tournament Organizer within the 60-day period on the chance the lost item has been turned in. Tournament Organizer contact information can be found below. |
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