Bazooka Tango has announced the global release of the open beta for Shardbound, a fantasy trading card game that incorporates Web3 rewards, now available on Steam and the Epic Games Store. This much-anticipated launch offers players the chance to dive into an immersive card battle experience while earning exclusive rewards, catering to both casual players and those deeply invested in strategic card games.
Exclusive Rewards and Web3 Integration
The game’s release is set to provide over 100,000 pre-registered players with special in-game advantages, including a set of rare, epic, and legendary cards. These cards are designed to give players a head start in building powerful decks, helping them to dominate the competitive landscape of Shardbound. According to Bazooka Tango, these initial rewards are distributed through Immutable Passport wallets or via email redemption codes, offering players unique cards that enhance their gameplay experience from the outset.
In addition to card rewards, Bazooka Tango has partnered with Immutable’s Main Quest, the largest Web3 gaming rewards program, allowing players to earn in-game currency through quest completions. Players can collect Gems through this program, which can then be redeemed for IMX tokens, enhancing the in-game experience and broadening players’ customization options. This partnership marks a significant step in combining traditional card gaming with blockchain rewards, providing a richer, multi-layered gaming environment.
A Vision Beyond Traditional Card Games
Co-founders of Bazooka Tango expressed their excitement over the Shardbound beta launch, highlighting the game’s potential to go beyond typical trading card experiences. One co-founder shared that the team had always intended to create a game that offers both fun gameplay and an in-depth experience for those who enjoy a challenge. The launch of Shardbound is seen as the beginning of a broader journey, with plans to expand the game’s features and rewards as players immerse themselves in the fantasy world.
Another co-founder emphasized the importance of storytelling in the development of Shardbound. He shared that the team’s vision was to create more than just another card game by crafting a richly detailed world, where every card has its own story. The sprawling lore and unique characters of Shardbound were designed to captivate players, providing depth and connection to the game’s fantasy universe.
Opportunities for NFT Upgrades and Event Participation
As part of the open beta, players can opt into Shardbound’s Web3 features, with opportunities for non-fungible token (NFT) upgrades. While the game itself can be played without the use of Web3 elements, players who connect their wallets during the beta will unlock additional rewards, including time-based NFT upgrades. These upgrades will be available within specific participation windows, with the first window running from October 9 to October 16, and further upgrade opportunities continuing until November 6. Missing a participation window will make players ineligible for upgrades from previous periods, adding a layer of strategic engagement for those deeply invested in the game.
In addition to NFT rewards, Bazooka Tango has planned several events designed to engage players throughout the beta phase. The “Shard and Shield” event offers player-versus-player (PvP) action, with exclusive mission rewards available for those who take on specific challenges. New players will also benefit from additional rewards for consecutive days played, as well as opportunities to expand their card collections through faction-based events. Other features, such as daily login challenges and faction showdowns, aim to keep the player base engaged and motivated to return to the game each day.
Conclusion: A Blend of Strategy and Blockchain
The launch of Shardbound’s open beta represents a new chapter for fantasy card gaming, combining traditional card gameplay with the growing opportunities of Web3 technology. By offering exclusive rewards, immersive storytelling, and a range of events, Bazooka Tango is looking to capture the attention of both casual gamers and dedicated Web3 enthusiasts. The integration of blockchain elements such as NFTs and IMX token rewards adds a new dimension to the gaming experience, opening the door for more complex interactions and long-term engagement within the Shardbound community.