Why Early Access?

“Card Shop Duelist is a passion project built from the ground up. Early Access lets us keep developing it with real player feedback, using your suggestions, bug reports, and enthusiasm to guide priorities. It also funds more resources to make the game the best it can be.”

Approximately how long will this game be in Early Access?

“Roughly a year, depending on how development goes and what we learn from the community. We'd rather take the time to get it right than rush to 1.0”

How is the full version planned to differ from the Early Access version?

“Deeper content across all systems, more cards, customers, shop upgrades, and events, plus refined quality-of-life features. We're using Early Access to fill gaps and smooth rough edges so 1.0 feels like a complete, cohesive game.”

What is the current state of the Early Access version?

“Card Shop Duelist is highly playable and feature-complete, with progression to Player Level 100 and endgame mastery systems. Day one includes:

Shop Operations & Automation - Dynamic day-night cycle, intent-driven customers, Mystery Bulk Card Dispensers, shelf restocking, and hirable staff (cashiers, stockers, purchasers and marketers - up to 15 slots).

Cards & Collection - The First Forging (2100+ cards including variants), binders, a dynamic market, card grading, and a dust/crafting pipeline.

Battleforge Duels & Tournaments - Duel customers, build custom decks, configure rulesets, and host 8/16-player bracketed tournaments with real sign-ups and prestige tiers.

Shop Building - Grid-based Build Mode for shelves, duel tables, checkout desks, storage racks, and more.

Progression & Endgame - 100 levels, Daily/Weekly/Main goals, customer loyalty, and an Endgame Mastery Tree across Economy, Content, Battleforge, and Player Perk branches.

Calendar & Technical - 4-season living calendar with weather/event forecasting, parallel auto-saving profiles, and Steam Achievements coming soon.

...and much more.”

Will the game be priced differently during and after Early Access?

“Yes, the price rises slightly at 1.0 to reflect the added content and polish. Buying in during Early Access is the best time for the lower price.”

How are you planning on involving the Community in your development process?

“Our Discord is the main feedback hub. We read bug reports, feature ideas, and general thoughts, and use them to guide priorities, this is a collaborative process.”