Wildcard Set for October 2025 Release

Playful Studio has confirmed that its game Wildcard will officially launch on Steam in October 2025. The game has been in development for several years, with estimates ranging from three to seven years depending on the source. During this period, the project has undergone significant changes as the US-based developer refined its concept and gameplay.

A Unique Blend of Game Genres

Wildcard is described by its creators as the world’s first collectible card action game. It offers a 2v2 real-time experience that merges elements typically found in MOBA (Multiplayer Online Battle Arena) games, sports titles, and character collection games. This hybrid design aims to create a new gameplay format that stands out within the competitive gaming market.

Wildcard Set for October 2025 Release

Funding and Launch Timeline

The announcement of the October 2025 release date came during a stream hosted on Thousands, Playful Studio’s web3 streaming platform. CEO Paul Bettner explained that the company’s recent $6.5 million investment has provided the financial runway needed to finalize the launch schedule. Bettner acknowledged that earlier statements had suggested a possible summer launch, but additional preparations and funding have pushed the date back to October.

Distinction Between Wildcard and Thousands

While Wildcard itself is a traditional web2 game without blockchain or web3 features, the integration with Thousands is a significant part of Playful Studio’s broader strategy. Thousands serves as a streaming platform built on web3 technology, which will support Wildcard’s community through features such as wagering on games and enabling fans to support teams or develop sports franchises within the game’s metagame environment.

Wildcard Set for October 2025 Release

Thousands and Wildcard Alliance Secure $9M

Thousands and Wildcard Alliance recently announced a joint $9 million fundraising round aimed at accelerating the development of their integrated web3 ecosystem. The round is co-led by Arbitrum Gaming Ventures and Paradigm, with $6.5 million already secured and the remaining funding expected to close within the next 60 days.

Based in McKinney, Texas, the companies are led by co-CEOs Paul and Katy Drake Bettner, who are known for their previous work on Words With Friends, Lucky’s Tale, and Age of Empires. This new round follows a $46 million Series A raised in 2022 and is focused on expanding both the game Wildcard and the Thousands protocol. The companies are developing a system that links blockchain-based gameplay with a marketing infrastructure centered on creator-driven user acquisition.

Community Engagement and Availability

Playful Studio has emphasized the importance of community interaction through Thousands, positioning it as a key component for Wildcard’s ongoing ecosystem rather than a direct feature of the gameplay. Players interested in Wildcard can add the game to their Steam wishlist in preparation for its upcoming release. Additional details and insights about Wildcard and the integration with Thousands are available on our website.