Tempest was released in October 1997 and contained 350 cards. It was the first set sold as preconstructed decks, ready-to-play decks consisting exclusively of Tempest (block) cards. For Tempest itself, these decks are known in English only. Beginning with Stronghold, the second expansion of the Rath Cycle, decks in French and German are attested and with Exodus Japanese was added (but did not feature Disenchant).

Preconstructed decks were manufactured aside from booster and starter cards. Although often made in Belgium, they have front cut corners, making them well discernible print variants.