FAQ on Steam Trading Cards
Here, I decided to gather all the questions and answers about Trading Cards, which Steam recently introduced.
What are Steam Trading Cards?
These are collectible cards that drop randomly when you play specific games.
Which games do I need to play?
Currently, it's Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, Portal 2, Dota 2, Half-Life 2, Don't Starve, and Team Fortress 2. In the future, this list will be constantly updated. Soon, they will likely add The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim and Borderlands 2.
I play Dota 2, but cards aren’t dropping, why?
This is a bug that affects many players. Valve is aware of it and promises to fix it soon. Also, to receive cards, you need the Premium DLC version (Dota 2 -> properties -> DLC).
How do I get the Premium DLC?
You need to make one in-game purchase or activate a key.
So, by playing these games, will I get all the cards?
Only half; you will need to trade with other participants or buy them on the Steam marketplace for the rest.
Why do I need these cards?
Firstly, you can sell them and earn some money on your account. Secondly, by collecting 8 different cards for one game, you can craft them and receive: experience, a discount coupon, a chat emoji, various items, and a profile background.
Is there a limit to crafting?
Yes, you can craft up to five times for one game, acquiring more valuable items and additional experience.
What is experience used for?
To level up your Steam level :)
How do I get access to the Steam Trading Cards beta?
Join this group and wait for an invitation. You can also ask friends for an invite or buy one on the marketplace. By the time of writing this FAQ, prices have dropped significantly.
How do I find out which friends have the cards I need?
Click on the icon in the profile, follow it, and see all the cards for this game that your friends have and you do not. You will also find out how many more cards can drop from the game.
What is a badge?
A badge is an icon representing your achievements in Steam and participation in various events.
How do I start crafting?
After collecting, for example, 8 cards for Portal 2 (each game has its own amount), click on the icon in the respective game, press the "Craft a Badge" button, and wait, relying on luck.
Does it always require 100 XP to level up?
No, every 10 levels the amount of required experience increases by 100. So, up to level 10 - 100, level 20 - 200, level 30 - 300.
Where can I use emojis?
In chats and discussions.
How do I set a profile background?
Go to profile editing and select the desired background (it is in your inventory).
I've heard about Foil Trading Cards, can you tell me more?
From level 10, there is a small chance of getting so-called Foil cards. Due to their rarity, they are valued much higher than the regular ones. There are rumors that badges in the profile for a complete set are unusual.