I remember starting my Magic: The Gathering collection by buying card components of my first casual deck. It was the basic White-bordered Mountain from Classic Sixth Edition, and I was happy to finally own a wherein before I just borrowed decks from my friends so I could learn the basics of the game.

To start your Magic: The Gathering (MTG) card collection, of course, you would have a budget like any other hobby, and you have several options and sources for buying Magic cards.

Here are some common places where you can purchase Magic cards:

1. Local Game Stores (LGS): Local game stores are a fantastic place to buy Magic cards and build your collection. They often host events, have a wide selection of products, and can provide a community of fellow players and resources to help you get started. Supporting your LGS is important for the MTG community.
2. Online Retailers: various online retailers sell Magic cards, including major ones like TCGplayer, Card Kingdom, ChannelFireball, Star City Games, and Cardmarket (especially for European buyers). These websites offer a wide range of options, from singles to booster boxes.
3. Mass Retailers: Some big-box stores, like Walmart and Target, carry Magic products. While their selection may be more limited than specialty stores, you can often find starter decks, booster packs, and prerelease kits.
4. Online Marketplaces: Platforms like eBay and Amazon also have Magic card listings. Be cautious when buying from individual sellers, and be sure to check seller ratings and reviews for credibility.
5. Magic: The Gathering Arena (MTG Arena): If you’re interested in digital Magic, you can play for free on MTG Arena, and you can earn digital cards by playing the game. It’s a great way to learn and build your collection digitally.
6. Trade and Buy from Other Players: Many players have cards they’re willing to trade or sell. Attend local events, visit trading forums, or use platforms like Cardsphere or PucaTrade to trade and buy cards from other players.
7. Booster Boxes and Bundles: If you want to open a lot of packs to build your collection, consider purchasing booster boxes (36 packs per box) or Bundles (formerly called Fat Packs), which often include a good mix of cards and land.
8. MTG Preconstructed Decks: Intro Decks, Challenger Decks, and Planeswalker Decks are preconstructed decks designed for new players. They provide a good starting point for a collection and often include useful cards.
9. Local Events and Prereleases: Attending MTG events at your local game store, such as prereleases or drafts, can be a great way to acquire cards and build your collection while enjoying gameplay.
10. Collections from Other Players: Some players sell or trade entire collections. This can be a good way to quickly build a diverse collection but can be expensive depending on the collection’s contents.

Before purchasing Magic cards, it’s a good idea to have a clear understanding of what format you want to play, your budget, and your specific deck or collection goals. This will help you make informed choices about which cards to acquire. Additionally, be aware of the rarity and value of cards to ensure you’re getting a fair deal.