We see, test and generally use so many different binders here at Card Gamer, and it’s very easy to be cynical about trying another. So often, there’s so little to differentiate one from the next; there’s generally a basic level of quality that most binders reach, and that’s generally more than adequate for the average collector. Yet we’ve been pretty taken aback with TopDeck’s Johto Luxury Portfolio, even with our years of experience with similar products. Let’s find out why!
Packaging
The Johto Luxury Portfolio is packaged very securely in a cardboard box, with a plastic window, and it’s also wrapped safely in a plastic bag inside the box. Though the box itself isn’t particularly fancy, it’s thick and protective enough for the task of keeping your binder safe in transit, prior to using it. You’ll notice just how big it is too!
The Binder’s Exterior
Here’s where our jaws near enough hit the floor. The Johto Luxury Portfolio looks and feels like a premium product through and through. It’s most immediately apparent from the exterior, which is beautifully designed with a Pokémon Gold and Silver theme.
Regarding that theme, it’s brilliantly brought to life all over the folder’s green, faux-leather exterior. All eight Johto gym badges are displayed on the front, beneath a beautiful depiction of the Johto region. At the top of the front cover is the text “Johto”, with “Johto Region” in Japanese beneath it.
You’ll also note in the top right of the binder’s front is a gold, metal corner fitting, ornately depicting the Legendary Pokémon Ho-Oh.
This is mirrored on the back of the binder with a silver corner fitting, featuring another Legendary Pokémon, Lugia. These Pokémon each featured on the cover art of Pokémon Gold and Silver respectively.
The back has the same tasteful gold foil detailing as the rest of the folder. It’s more minimal; just a Poké Ball symbol and the words “Gold and Silver” in Japanese.
The spine features a Poké Ball symbol, the Johto name, the TopDeck logo and, perhaps most excitingly, a unique number. As each binder is individually numbered, each one is unique, making them even more desirable for collectors.
The Binder’s Interior
Of course, all that fancy decoration and thoughtful aesthetics would be for nothing if the inside of the binder wasn’t up to scratch. Thankfully, that’s not the case here. You’ll find a debossed map of the Johto region, with gym badges, on each of the inside covers. These are soft to the touch and beautifully, colorfully designed with the same care and attention you can see on the exterior of the binder.
The card sleeves and pages feel sturdy, secure and very well made. This is, of course, going to be the major concern for collectors. We’re pleased to report that we’ve had absolutely no concerns with the safety and security of our cards in the binder. Cards sideload into the pockets, and they seem to stay in position whether sleeved or unsleeved.
The Johto Binder definitely feels like it’s made for long term use, storing a very impressive 1024 cards maximum. Each page holds 16 cards, so you have 32 cards on a double page spread.
The Card Gamer Verdict
We have been incredibly impressed with every aspect of the TopDeck Johto Luxury Portfolio. The production values are fully on display throughout, and this really does feel like a premium product inside and out. The visual elements are absolutely gorgeous, with the metal corner pieces being particularly eye-catching. The binder holds a large number of cards safely, and it feels as if it’ll stand up to plenty of handling without any issues whatsoever. If you’re a fan of Pokémon, given its size, quality and design, this binder is likely an essential purchase. It’s available in various sizes if the 1024 is a little on the large side too!
Chcek out TopDeck’s selection of binders and other accessories here. We’ve also placed the Johto Binder on our holiday gift guide too!
