You didn’t hear wrong. It is August, and no — it is not April’s Fool. Blizzard Entertainment has announced the World of Warcraft Trading Card Game by Cryptozoic Entertainment is coming to an end. Looks like Blizzard wishes to focus all the artistic talent into producing cards internally for the Hearthstone: Heroes of Warcraft instead.
While the CCG, expected to launch at the end of 2013, is free to play — players can use the in-game store to buy up to 40 packs for $49.99. It’s a more attractive model for players. Those who wish to earn the cards the old fashion way may do so free. Those who wish to buy the cards instead have the freedom to do so. The good question to make now that the TCG is coming to an end is whether Hearthstone will have special loot cards on the free-to-play model or if at least these will be adopted by the Hearthstone in-game store.
Cryptozoic published the following statement at their website.
We are very grateful to the incredible community of players that have made the World of Warcraft Trading Card Game such an amazing experience. Timewalkers: Reign of Fire, the 21st installment to the World of Warcraft TCG, will be the last. Reign of Fire has been one of the fastest selling sets of all time and has been overwhelmingly well-received by drafters and deck brewers alike. While we are sad to see the World of Warcraft TCG end, we are proud to see it end on such a high note.
We hope that you have enjoyed cracking packs and playing with the most iconic characters in the Warcraft universe as much as we have. From raid and dungeon decks to unique heroes, each with their own deck-defining powers, the World of Warcraft TCG has left an unforgettable mark on the world of trading card games. Darkmoon Faires have long been a place for the most friendly and welcoming gaming community on the planet to come together and share their enthusiasm in a competitive, yet friendly, environment.
It has truly been an honor to be a part of such a passionate community that continues to grow year after year. The World of Warcraft TCG holds a special place in our hearts here and we are thankful to Blizzard for allowing us to be part of it.
In addition, Blizzard Entertainment posted an official word about the end of the WoW TCG.
We wanted to take a moment to thank all of you World of Warcraft Trading Card Game players out there for your support of the game for close to seven years.
We’ve had a blast working on it, and we knew that Set 21, Timewalkers: Reign of Fire would really grab everyone’s attention. In addition to delivering original and fun gameplay mechanics and giving players a new way to explore the story of Warcraft III, it’s stuffed with every single one of the much-sought-after Loot cards from each of the previous sets.
Set 21 represents something else as well: it’s the climactic last set for the WoW TCG. We are grateful for being able to collaborate with the artists and everyone else who helped make this game a reality all these years. We’re also thankful for all the players and retailers who’ve participated in the community globally. You made ripping open booster packs, discovering the wonders they held, and then building decks and taking them into battle a truly awesome experience.
Thank you all again for your support in making the WoW TCG one of the most epic trading card games of all time.
FAQ
Q: What about my loot cards that I haven’t redeemed yet?
A: You can still redeem your loot cards on our website (simply follow the instructions there).
Q: Will there still be tournaments for the WoW TCG?
A: While there will not be official tournaments hosted by Cryptozoic or Blizzard Entertainment, players are able to continue organizing tournaments as long as they follow our tournament guidelines listed here.
Q: I’m an artist/tournament winner; who should I contact if I have any questions?
A: Please contact Cryptozoic for any follow-up inquiries.
Q: Will you be renewing the contract for the WoW TCG with another partner?
A: While we don’t have any specific announcements to make at this time, we don’t expect to renew the license for the WoW TCG.
