Magic: The Gathering (often called Magic or MTG) is a strategic collectible trading card game created by Richard Garfield and published by Wizards of the Coast in 1993. Players take on the roles of powerful wizards called Planeswalkers and build custom decks of cards representing spells, creatures, and magical effects to battle opponents. Each player starts with a set amount of life (typically 20) and wins by reducing the opponent’s life to zero or accomplishing special victory conditions provided by certain cards. The game combines strategic deck-building, resource management (mana), and tactical decision-making, and supports both tabletop play and digital versions like Magic Arena. It has an expansive multiverse of settings, millions of players worldwide, and a vibrant community and competitive scene.