One Piece Super Pre-Release Starter Decks ST-01–ST-04: A Collector’s Buying Guide
ST-01 · Straw Hat Crew
ST-02 · Worst Generation
ST-03 · Seven Warlords of the Sea
ST-04 · Animal Kingdom Pirates
The Super Pre-Release versions of the first four One Piece starters occupy a different buying category from an ordinary first deck. Their appeal is the early release presentation, exclusive Leader illustrations, and first-edition gold stamp. A player mainly interested in learning should first separate that collecting interest from the need for a functional deck.
The four versions in this guide
Bandai lists September 30, 2022 as the release date for Straw Hat Crew ST-01 PRE, Worst Generation ST-02 PRE, The Seven Warlords of the Sea ST-03 PRE, and Animal Kingdom Pirates ST-04 PRE. Each individual product contains one 51-card constructed deck, ten DON!! cards, and three rule index cards. This guide covers the four related variants together; buying one version does not mean receiving all four decks.
What changes, and what does not
The official page identifies exclusive Leader illustrations and a first-edition gold stamp. It also states the card text is identical to the corresponding regular ST-01 through ST-04 cards. That makes the distinction principally about the collectible printing and presentation. It does not grant a stronger version of an effect, extra deckbuilding permission, or a special gameplay advantage for owning the earlier edition.
A collector’s verification checklist
Identify the exact deck code and language first. Ask for clear photographs of the packaging, Leader, stamp, and the actual cards being offered when buying an opened example. Compare with the official card images and contents. For a sealed item, inspect the seller’s photographs and condition description carefully, and check the return terms. A stock image alone cannot establish the condition or completeness of the copy you will receive.
Sealed, complete, or a single card?
Decide what you want to own before comparing prices. A sealed deck, an opened complete deck, and a single stamped Leader are different purchases. If you want the Leader for display, paying for every accessory may not be necessary. If you want an intact historical deck, missing DON!! or rule cards matter. Write the desired condition and contents down so a cheaper but incomplete listing does not appear equivalent.
Who should consider an ordinary starter instead?
For learning, compare a regular eligible printing or a current starter whose play style interests you. An early collectible edition is not required to understand the game. If you do play with collectible cards, use suitable protection and check current legality and restrictions. Treat the purchase as collecting something you want to keep, with no assumption that age or a gold stamp guarantees future appreciation.
Product facts: Bandai’s official English product page. Teaching suggestions are editorial guidance, not firsthand playtesting results. Check current rules and card restrictions before organized play.