Those cards still hold value and the game is made to be played with multiple of the same cards. But you're right, trading cards are a gamble.

You pay for a mystery pack

You either get good or bad cards

You'll keep buying to get better stuff

It has all the checks.

But I think it's important you don't need to buy booster packs to enjoy the game. I can buy multiple pre-made decks and I know exactly what I get and still can enjoy the game.

Some games (now not talking about FIFA) even rely on loot boxes to make the game more enjoyable. You even can get timed stuff you can only use an X amount of days and poof.. it's gone.

Also digital purchases might be considered "too easy". With cards you at least get something physical.

Not sure though.. all I personally think is that micro transactions and loot boxes are killing the fun and quality of games.