A playmat does more than look cool. It protects your cards from rough tables, gives you a smooth surface for shuffling and drawing, and helps you stand out at game night. Here's what to consider before you buy.
1. Size
A standard single-player playmat is about 24 x 14 inches. Larger 16 x 32 inch mats, like ours, give you extra room for battlefield zones, tokens, dice and life counters, which is handy in multiplayer formats. They also make great desk mats when you're not playing.
2. Surface
Look for a smooth surface that lets cards slide easily and a grippy underside that stays put on the table. A stitched edge helps prevent fraying over time.
3. Art
This is the fun part. Your playmat is the backdrop to every game, so pick art you love looking at. The Archive's mats lean dark and dramatic: tentacles, sigils and wizards.
4. Care
- Roll it up, image side out, to store. Don't fold it.
- Spot clean with cool water and a drop of mild soap, then air dry flat.
- Keep drinks on a coaster, away from the mat.
5. Complete the setup
Pair your mat with inner sleeves for double-sleeving, a sturdy deck case and a zippered binder for your collection.
Browse all playmats.