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Immutable Games Announces Shardbound Open Beta Launch on Steam and Epic Games Store
Introduction
Shardbound, a strategy card battler game built on Ethereum layer-2 scaling network Immutable zkEVM, is set to enter open beta on both Steam and the Epic Games Store starting October 9. This move marks a significant step in the game’s development and integration of Web3 elements.
Game Overview
Described as a cross between Hearthstone and Fire Emblem, Shardbound combines deck-building, card-collecting, turn-based battles, and RPG elements. Players can pursue various victory strategies, such as military or economic routes, similar to the options in Sid Meier’s Civilization series.
Open Beta Details
The open beta phase will continue for an unspecified duration to allow developers to gather feedback and enhance the game further. The team at Bazooka Tango aims to iterate quickly based on community input to refine the gaming experience.
Web3 Integration and NFTs
Although Shardbound will not support NFT integration on Steam due to platform restrictions, Bazooka Tango plans to explore in-game NFT features in the future. Players will receive identical NFTs of their in-game cards, which can be claimed through an Immutable Passport wallet or email redemption code.
Future Plans
Bazooka Tango is committed to ensuring a consistent experience for all players across different platforms. The team is crafting a Web3 strategy tailored to each storefront’s guidelines while maintaining game parity.
Development Journey
Originally funded through a Kickstarter campaign in 2017, Shardbound underwent a revitalization by Bazooka Tango and Immutable Games after acquiring the rights last year. The incorporation of blockchain elements signals a new chapter for the game, offering enhanced gameplay experiences after seven years of development.
Conclusion
As Shardbound transitions from early access to open beta, players can expect a unique blend of traditional card battle mechanics with innovative Web3 features. With a focus on continual improvement and community engagement, the game aims to deliver an immersive gaming experience for players on different platforms.