How to Play Yu-gi-oh BY EDWARD M. EVELD Kansas Knight Ridder Oct 17, 2002

Two players battle each other with decks of Yu-Gi-Oh! cards, which consist of monster cards, magic cards and trap cards.

Players start with 8,000 "life points." The goal is to reduce the opponent's points to zero, thereby winning a duel. The winner of the best of three duels wins a match.

Players draw cards through six phases of "game play," choosing which monsters to use to inflict damage on the opponent. Certain combinations of cards are also powerful.

Winners are helped by strategy, luck and a well-constructed deck. The rules are fairly detailed, and players say it's helpful to observe actual matches rather than simply to read the rule book.

The game and booster packs are available at card and hobby shops and other retailers, including convenience and discount stores. Starter decks cost about $10 and contain 50 cards plus a rule book and a game mat. Booster packs cost about $3 and contain nine cards.