"Sort of like your valedictory deck advice to the readers of these forums"
honestly - I'd say look at everything you can. Search sites, speak to friends who have decks, check out any shops near you that just might sell them, new or secondhand.
And pick the one that speaks to YOU. Don't be swayed by what other folks say about a deck, go by how YOU feel about it. And that will be your very best guide.
There are decks I love, but if this is my advice to readers who come after me - that's it.
this is so, so true. i've seen people wax poetic about decks that i take a look at and am like, "????????????" and vice versa. but hey, to each their own! i will never judge anyone by their taste; if it works for you and you love it? go for it! well said, PathWalker.
however, there is one deck that popped out at me. i was always (and still am) a RWS devotee. i just like the classic, iconic vibe. and then one day i saw the deviant moon tarot.
http://www.aeclectic.net/tarot/cards/deviant-moon/
i know that this isn't everyone's cup of tea, but this deck changed things for me. suddenly, readings became absolutely, chillingly clear - almost unnervingly so. and while the artwork is pretty computerized, the system is rich, and the world that has been created is one that i feel like i can step into.
also, for what is categorized as a "dark" deck, there is quite a lot of humor and warmth; although, if you like being taken down spooky alleyways and going to the next level below, there is plenty of that.
also, there's a pretty rad companion book.
aaaaaaaand that is my last deck recommendation here on AT! salutations, all