Reader’s Question:
I’m struggling with my deck in Uma Musume. I don’t have any decent support cards. Should I stubbornly try to build my own deck, or would it be better to use a rental deck instead? Here’s a picture of the SSR/SR support cards I currently have.

Finding Your Way in
Uma Musume: To Build or Not to Build?

As I sit down with my cup of steaming coffee, I can’t help but think about the struggles many of us face in the vibrant world of Uma Musume. Whether you’re just stepping into this anime-themed horse racing game or are a seasoned veteran, the conundrum of deck building can be a real head-scratcher. Recently, I came across a question from a fellow player who’s grappling with whether to build their own deck or opt for a rental deck. Having been in similar shoes myself, I thought it’d be worthwhile to share my thoughts and experiences on this topic.

The Dilemma: To Build or Not to Build

So, here’s the situation: you’re staring at your collection, and it feels a bit lackluster. You’ve got some SSR and SR support cards, but they’re not exactly the cream of the crop. It’s like staring into a pantry full of old snacks when you’re craving something gourmet. The temptation to push through and build your deck yourself is strong. After all, there’s a certain pride in crafting something from scratch, isn’t there? But, let’s be real. My own experiences have taught me that sometimes, that pride can lead to heartache. I remember trying to forge my deck when I first started playing. I thought, “How hard can it be? I’ll just mix and match some cards and create a masterpiece!” Spoiler alert: it wasn’t a masterpiece. It was more like a science experiment gone horribly wrong.

Embrace the Rental Deck

Now, here’s where the advice from the community shines through. A rental deck can sometimes be your best friend, especially when you’re feeling a bit defeated by your current card pool. Think of it as that reliable buddy who’s always got your back—showing up with snacks when you’re feeling low. Rental decks can get you results without having to sweat it out building something from the ground up. I remember one time I used a rental deck and, lo and behold, it actually carried me to success! I didn’t have to overthink every move; I could just enjoy the ride. The best part? You can still focus on collecting resources, aiming for those shiny SSR cards that you can max out later.

The Path Forward: Building and Collecting

So what’s the plan? My advice is to embrace the rental deck while you work on improving your card collection. Use this time to gather those exchange SSR cards and work towards maxing them out. I mean, who doesn’t want to strut their stuff with fully powered cards? It’s like showing up to a party in an outfit that’s just chef’s kiss. Moreover, I’ve found that the grind for jewels is part of the experience. It might feel tedious at times—like running on a treadmill while watching paint dry—but it pays off. Getting those gems can open up new opportunities for better support cards. It’s like saving up for that expensive concert ticket or that special game release; the anticipation can be just as rewarding as the payoff!

Final Thoughts: Enjoy the Journey

At the end of the day, what’s important is to enjoy the journey. Whether you’re trying to piece together a deck or leaning on rentals, it’s all in the spirit of the game. Don’t let the frustrations get you down. Instead, embrace the learning curve. Each setback is an opportunity to grow, whether it’s figuring out which cards synergize well or just enjoying the thrill of racing in Uma Musume. So, to all those out there struggling with the deck dilemma: give yourself permission to take the easy road at times. Use the rental deck, enjoy the gameplay, and focus on building up your resources. Trust me, your future self will thank you for it. And who knows? You might just find a new favorite support card along the way. Happy racing, and may your Uma Musume adventures be filled with excitement and victories!