Cygames has officially announced the upcoming release of their new digital card game, Shadowverse: Worlds Beyond, set to debut on June 17, 2025. The excitement was palpable during the live broadcast on March 13, hosted by Yasutake Hiraishi, accompanied by producer Yuito Kimura and Cygames caster Kazutaka Tomita. They provided key insights about new features and changes to the game, all leading up to the commencement of pre-registration across various platforms, including iOS, Android, Steam, and Epic Games Store.
The announcement included the rollout of new gameplay elements and the structure of international tournaments, stirring intrigue among the game’s dedicated following. The broadcast featured the reveal of “Shadowverse Park,” envisioned as a metaverse space where players can engage with customizable avatars, enjoy card battles with friends, and partake in events.
Significantly, the game introduces the “Super Evolution” system, enhancing strategy by allowing cards to have increased attack and defense values. When players utilize Super Evolution, cards gain three additional points to attack and defense, and they also earn the “Rush” ability. This means players can attack opponents without waiting for their next turn. Kimura stated, “This special evolution isn't just about powering up; it also ensures your follower remains invincible to damage and destruction by abilities during your turn.” Even after attacking and defeating another follower, the Super Evolved follower can inflict additional damage on the opponent’s leader.
Another notable addition is the “Extra PP” system, which offers the second player the opportunity to increase their play points by one at their discretion. Players can use this mechanism up to twice during each battle: the first by turn five, and the second thereafter. This added strategy is expected to significantly affect gameplay dynamics.
Existing game mechanics are also receiving much-needed modifications. The evolution mechanics will see fixed increases of +2 to attack and defense. Meanwhile, card draw limits have been adjusted; players will now start with four cards instead of the previous three, equalizing the draw rates regardless of the starting turn.
Another exciting feature introduced is the concept of “Crest,” which refers to abilities as icons associated with the player's leader during battles. Players can hold up to five Crests, giving them insightful visibility of their leader's status. Innovations also extend to incorporating names for various card abilities, including “Menace,” “Aura,” and “Barrier,” ensuring players quickly identify abilities during play.
The graphical presentation of card interactions has seen impressive enhancements as well. Players can expect beautifully animated effects, enhancing the richness of the experience. According to Kimura, “Stages will dynamically shift based on the battle's progression,” introducing yet another layer of depth to visual engagement. Players can now explore numerous classes, with Newcomers like the Nightmare class taking the stage, formed by blending elements of existing classes like Necromancer and Vampire.
With the exciting gameplay features being announced, Kimura also highlighted upcoming events. A significant tournament, now named the Shadowverse World Grand Prix 2025, is set to take place, featuring increased prize money of 100 million yen. This raises the stakes and draws more players eager to showcase their skills on the global stage.
Cygames is also ensuring accessibility and engagement for casual players. They confirmed daily distribution of free card packs, alongside missions rewarding players with more packs and items. The new dismantling system allows for card dismantling only when exceeding three identical cards, prompting players to strategize their collections more efficiently.
Following the broadcast, Cygames is organizing the Shadowverse Special Fes on March 23 at Bellesalle Akihabara. This event aims to provide players with hands-on experiences of Shadowverse: Worlds Beyond, along with inviting questions from fans about the new game. A Q&A session featuring Kimura will address player inquiries, enhancing community interaction. A special event, titled “RAGE THE Kamonehashi,” hosted by streamer Tsuruoka, will also be part of the festivities, allowing fans to witness battles featuring cards with newly revealed abilities.
Additional plans include participation at the upcoming Card Game Festival 2025, slated to happen on May 3-4 at Tokyo Big Sight. Players will enjoy various side events and competitive matches during this two-day gaming extravaganza.
Another exhibition, the “Cygames Background Art Exhibition 2024-2025,” will be conducted from May 2 to May 13 at Musashino Art University, allowing visitors to appreciate the artistic evolution behind the game.
Looking forward, the excitement surrounding Shadowverse: Worlds Beyond paints an optimistic picture for its release. With extensive updates and immersive events planned, fans are eager to experience what Cygames has to offer.
Questions about the game can be directed to Cygames via their official social media channels, ensuring players remain engaged and informed. With every detail from gameplay updates to community interactions revealed, anticipation builds as the release date approaches.