A fresh ranking from Yu-Gi-Oh Master Duel highlights the current most-played cards in the game, featuring an unexpected counter to a top-tier deck that's gaining rapid popularity. With over 10,000 cards available and regular updates through Selection Packs and Secret Packs, Yu-Gi-Oh Master Duel offers endless strategic possibilities. Players can obtain cards through various in-game methods, including packs and a robust crafting system, but some cards consistently rise above the rest in competitive play.

Hand Traps like Ash Blossom & Joyous Spring and Maxx C remain staples in competitive decks, while Extra Deck powerhouses such as S:P Little Knight and Accesscode Talker continue to dominate. However, a new chart reveals a surprising contender among the most-played cards this month.

According to data shared by Master Duel Guide, the top cards for July 2025 feature some familiar names alongside a notable newcomer. Maxx C and Ash Blossom & Joyous Spring maintain their positions at the top, but Artifact Lancea has surged to third place with an impressive 83.4% play rate. This unexpected rise is attributed to its effectiveness against the newly dominant Maliss deck, which relies heavily on banishing mechanics.

Top 10 Most-Played Cards in Yu-Gi-Oh Master Duel (July 2025)

1. Maxx C: 96.20%
2. Ash Blossom & Joyous Spring: 89.60%
3. Artifact Lancea: 83.40%
4. Called by the Grave: 78.40%
5. S:P Little Knight: 70.60%
6. Crossout Designator: 64.10%
7. Infinite Impermanence: 55.7%
8. Apollousa, Bow of the Goddess: 55.00%
9. Mulcharmy Fuwalos: 52.70%
10. Nibiru, the Primal Being: 50.90%

The Maliss deck, known for its Link Monster-focused strategy, has taken the competitive scene by storm, mirroring its success in the physical TCG. Artifact Lancea's ability to block banishing effects makes it a crucial counter, explaining its sudden popularity. This shift has also boosted Crossout Designator, which can negate Lancea's effects, creating an interesting dynamic in the meta.