2002: Global Expansion (The OCG / TCG Split)

International Launch: Following its massive success in Asia, Konami adapted the game for Western markets in March 2002 under the TCG (Trading Card Game) banner, debuting with Legend of Blue Eyes White Dragon.

The Divergence: From this point on, the franchise split into two distinct ecosystems. While the West received a different card-back design and a delayed release schedule, Japan (OCG) retained the exclusive history of the original 1998–2001 printings, making these early vintage blocks the true foundational pillars of the entire franchise.