Lotus ScanHow to Scan Foreign Language MTG Cards
A step-by-step guide to help you scan foreign language mtg cards quickly and accurately.
Foreign-language Magic cards add an extra layer of complexity to scanning because the card name and text are not in English, which can confuse recognition algorithms. Japanese, Korean, Russian, and Chinese cards are especially challenging because they use entirely different character sets. However, the card's artwork, border style, mana cost, and set symbol are still the same regardless of language. With the right approach, you can identify and price foreign cards reliably.
Step-by-Step Guide
Check if your scanner supports foreign cards
Not all scanning apps handle foreign-language cards well. Some rely heavily on text recognition and will fail entirely on non-Latin scripts. Lotus Scan uses image-based recognition that focuses on artwork and card frame rather than text alone, which makes it more reliable across languages.
Use the artwork as the primary identifier
The artwork on a Magic card is identical regardless of the language it was printed in. When scanning, make sure the art is clearly visible and well-lit. The scanner will match the art to its database and return the English card name and details even if the physical card is in another language.
Tip: Cards with alternate or promo art are harder to identify in any language. Check the collector number at the bottom of the card for additional confirmation.
Verify the set using the set symbol
Foreign-language cards use the same set symbols as English cards. If the scanner returns a match but you want to double-check, compare the set symbol on the card with the set the app identified. This is a quick visual confirmation that works regardless of language.
Note the language in your collection
When saving the card, mark its language if your app supports it. Language affects value - Japanese cards often carry a premium, while some other languages may be worth slightly less than English. Tracking language helps you price cards more accurately when it's time to sell.
Tip: Japanese foil cards from certain sets command significant premiums in the collector market. Track these separately.
Research language-specific price premiums
Standard price databases show English card prices. For foreign-language versions, you'll need to check marketplaces where those cards actively trade. Japanese cards can be worth 20-50% more than English for popular Commander and Modern staples. Russian and Korean cards from older sets can also carry premiums due to lower print runs.
Make It Easier with Lotus Scan
Lotus Scan for iPhone simplifies this entire process with AI-powered card recognition, real-time price tracking, and intuitive collection management. Just point your camera and scan.
Pro Tips
- The collector number printed at the bottom of the card is always in numerals, regardless of language. Use it to manually look up cards that won't scan.
- If you're buying foreign cards for value, Japanese is the language with the most consistent and highest premium across formats.
- Foreign cards from older sets (before 2010) are harder to scan due to the old card frame. Be prepared to identify some manually.
- Many foreign-language cards are available on Cardmarket.com, which is the best resource for European-language card pricing.