Azuki TCG has launched pre-orders for its Alpha Starter Decks, marking the first physical product release for the trading card game. The pre-order period began on March 27 and will run until April 3, offering collectors an opportunity to secure decks through an allocation system based on their Collector Status. To further accommodate demand, Azuki has also introduced a weighted raffle, giving participants a chance to acquire additional decks beyond their initial allocation.

How to Pre-Order the Azuki Trading Card Game

Azuki Alpha Starter Decks

To determine eligibility and allocation, Azuki took a snapshot of users’ Collector Status on March 25. Based on their tier, collectors were granted the ability to pre-order a specific number of decks. The highest tier, Order, allows users to purchase up to eight decks, while Legend tier holders can purchase up to four. Grand tier collectors can secure one deck, and Esteemed tier members do not receive an automatic allocation but have the opportunity to participate in the raffle.

The Alpha Starter Decks come in two variants, Shao and Raizan, but buyers cannot select a specific deck type. However, Azuki has stated that efforts will be made to distribute them evenly across purchases. For instance, an order of four decks will typically include two of each variant. All transactions for the pre-order must be completed using ANIME tokens, and each successful purchase will be confirmed with an NFT receipt. This NFT will later serve as proof of purchase and can be redeemed for the physical decks in Q3 2025.

Azuki Key Art 1

Weighted Raffle System and ANIME Tokens

For those who do not receive an allocation or wish to acquire additional decks, Azuki has implemented a weighted raffle system. Participants can enter the raffle during the pre-order period by committing ANIME tokens corresponding to the number of decks they want to purchase. Collector Status also influences the maximum number of raffle entries allowed per participant. Order tier members can enter for up to 50 decks, Legend tier members can enter for up to 25, Grand tier members can enter for up to 10, and Esteemed tier members can enter for one.

The results of the raffle will be announced on April 4, and any unsuccessful entries will be fully refunded. Buyers must ensure their wallets are properly connected to the Ethereum or Arbitrum networks, as gas fees and ANIME tokens must be aligned on the same blockchain for a successful transaction.

Azuki Key Art 2 

More About the Azuki TCG Ecosystem

The Alpha Starter Decks introduce the first playable experience within the Azuki TCG ecosystem. Each deck will feature either the Shao or Raizan deck and include a set of randomized booster packs. The cards in these decks will come in different rarity levels, including Common, Uncommon, Rare, and Super Rare. Additionally, some cards will have alternate versions with lower pull rates, making them more difficult to obtain.

All cards in this release will carry a unique “Alpha” designation that will not be reprinted in future sets. While some of the same cards may appear in Set 1, they will not feature the Alpha stamp, ensuring that these early editions remain distinct and potentially more valuable to collectors. To support future tournaments, promotions, and community events, Azuki will retain a small portion of Alpha Starter Decks, but these will come from the original print run and will not be reissued.

Avoiding Scams and Redeeming NFTs

Each pre-order or successful raffle win will be accompanied by an NFT, which serves as proof of purchase. These NFTs are tradable, allowing buyers to sell or transfer them between wallets. However, Azuki does not provide an official marketplace for such transactions, and buyers are advised to exercise caution to avoid potential scams.

The NFTs will be redeemable for physical decks in Q3 2025. Specific details regarding the redemption process and shipping will be announced closer to the release date.

Final Thoughts

Collectors who wish to secure an Alpha Starter Deck or enter the raffle must visit Azuki’s official website at azuki.com/tcg/alpha-deck. They will need to connect their wallet on the Ethereum or Arbitrum network, select the number of decks they want to purchase or the number of raffle entries they wish to submit, sign the transaction message, and complete the payment using ANIME tokens. Once the transaction is successful, they will receive an NFT as confirmation.

This pre-order marks an important step in Azuki’s expansion into the physical trading card game market, integrating web3 elements with traditional collectible card gaming. The Alpha Starter Decks are designed to lay the foundation for competitive play while also offering long-term collector appeal. Future announcements from Azuki will provide further details on NFT redemption, shipping logistics, and additional promotional opportunities related to this launch.