Is this a trading card game?

No. The collection of cards in each deck is the same.

Does this work with any modular?

Yes! In fact it is playable with almost any “patchable” synthesizer. Just treat each functional section like a “module”. For example, with a Serge system, the Universal Slope Generator would be its own “module” within the larger panel. With a Buchla I would suggest treating some modules, like the 281, as 4 or even 5 modules so that you don’t, for example, have to un-patch all your envelopes. In the end though, how you decide to break it down is entirely up to you.

Does it work with a typical fixed-architecture synthesizer?

Eh… not really. If your synth has an extensive modulation matrix then it can work, but it’s a stretch. And, honestly, pretty tedious in comparison to patching with a modular/patchable synth.

What’s with all this ‘no rules’ business?

Well, a game technically needs rules. But the true purpose of Patch is not to play a game, but to explore, discover, inspire, create, and just have fun. In my designing and play testing, tightly adhering to rules often had diminishing returns. By having the cards themselves be concrete actions, it allowed them to be used in a multitude of different ways, and not just one game. The “Basic Game” was designed as a way to get someone started and not intended to be the one way to play.. I sincerely hope that players develop their own ways of using the Patch cards and share their ideas with the community. 

So I could use these like Oblique Strategies?

Sure. In fact the Abstraction cards are pretty close to that in concept. I often find a simple way to use the cards is to just shuffle them and draw a random one when you need a little inspiration or direction. If it’s Abstraction, leave it out and continue to follow it. If it’s a Progression or Disruption, follow what the card says and shuffle it back in. 

Is this just for advanced modular synthesists?

No way! Patch: TCG was designed with with every experience level in mind. It’s just as educational and inspiring for modular newbies as it is for old pony-tails.