Wildcard to demo at Steam Next Fest ahead of DreamHack esports event launch

Web3 MOBA game Wildcard is set to offer players a first look at its demo at this year’s edition of Steam Next Fest. 

Per the company’s announcement, Wildcard will be available for public trial during Steam Next Fest, which runs from October 13th to 20th. This free demo offers an early opportunity to experience the game’s mechanics and provide feedback on its development.

The demo period leads directly into the game’s planned Early Access launch on October 21st, marking the start of its live development phase. 

Developed by Texas-based Playful Studios, Wildcard is a 2v2 action game that blends real-time arena combat with collectible card strategy. Players select champions and compete using decks of spells and creatures.

The project’s development is supported by capital investment, including a $9m (~£7.11m) raise earlier this year co-led by Arbitrum Gaming Ventures. 

This capital is fueling the creation of a game that integrates Web3 elements, such as custom NFTs and a native token, $WC. This token, operating on an Ethereum-based platform, will facilitate in-game asset ownership and governance.

The developers position Wildcard as a pioneer in competitive card-action blockchain gaming. With the debut at Steam Next Fest, Playful Studios will be hoping to showcase the game’s offerings and ability to combine elements of both tradition and Web3 gaming. 

So far, the official Wildcard X account has posted several countdowns to the game’s debut on Steam Next Fest, and a live trailer is also available online. 

The Steam Next Fest demo represents a significant public milestone for Wildcard, but it is not the only major event on the calendar. The game is also scheduled for a live esports debut at DreamHack Atlanta later this year.

To build momentum in the community, the developers launched a ‘Road to DreamHack’ qualifying series. 

Starting in August, teams competed in online stages for a spot in the final showdown. The top 12 teams will now compete on-site at DreamHack Atlanta from October 30 to November 2. A $5,000 grand prize is at stake in the finale. 

Participants in the earlier qualifying rounds have already earned rewards, including exclusive in-game skins, gift cards, and travel stipends for the Atlanta event.