Azuki Ventures into Collectible Card Game Market… Utilizing NFT IP for One Source Multi-Use (OSMU)

# Azuki Enters Trading Card Game Market Azuki is set to make a significant foray into the Trading Card Game (TCG) market on the 11th. With a strong following in anime culture, gaming, and collectibles, Azuki sees the pivot to TCGs as a natural extension. The first alpha starter deck will soon be available for pre-order exclusively for the Azuki community, with booster packs to follow upon public release. # Azuki TCG Targets Community and Traditional TCG Market Azuki is prioritizing the development of a high-impact physical card game. Although the team has extensive digital gaming experience, they recognize the necessity of leveraging offline experiences to foster a strong and engaged fandom. To this end, they are designing a TCG that combines gameplay elements with high-quality artwork. # Advanced Technology for High-Quality Card Production Creating a standout TCG requires both high-quality gameplay and art. Azuki is collaborating with industry experts and manufacturers to enhance production methods, incorporating advanced printing techniques. Cards featuring foiling, texture effects, and gold-foil signatures undergo multiple printing processes, necessitating precise design files. Moreover, Azuki plans to integrate physical backed token technology with the cards, adding a new dimension of functionality. However, they are researching methods to maintain the durability of these tokens, which can be vulnerable to damage during standard printing processes. # Expanding the Azuki Universe with Card Art The Azuki TCG represents an opportunity to expand the Azuki universe. Players will explore new creatures, locations, and tools within the game, enriching the identity of Azuki. The card design and artwork are led by Tomugi, Azuki’s Art Director, with contributions from both in-house and external artists. Key Azuki characters are crafted by Steamboy and other internal artists, ensuring a consistent visual identity. # Focus on Fair Play and Strategic Elements in Game Design The Azuki TCG emphasizes deep strategic play, innovative elements that differentiate from existing games, and the integration of the Azuki universe. The game addresses common issues found in other TCGs, such as preventing play from being stalled by a lack of resource cards through an auto-ramp mana/resource system. Additionally, a 'Leader' system has been introduced, allowing players to express their strategies. While randomness is a crucial aspect of TCGs, the Azuki TCG minimizes reliance on luck, focusing instead on strategic decision-making. The game includes elements such as powerful boss monsters and large combos that fans can look forward to. To date, the game has undergone over 30 prototype tests, with core game mechanics nearly finalized. Early tests involve simple card sets, enabling hands-on play to identify areas for improvement. # A TCG Created by TCG Enthusiasts Azuki is building the game under the philosophy of “a TCG created by TCG enthusiasts.” The project is spearheaded by individuals passionate about TCGs, incorporating community feedback and focusing on expanding the Azuki intellectual property.