Video game publisher Activision will release a new digitally-enhanced strategic battle card game for its popular Skylanders franchise called Skylanders Battlecast this spring.

Though the game is digital, and players can purchase virtual cards online, the physical cards are unique and have special benefits in the game. Players are encouraged to begin by purchasing a Battle Pack A or B. Each Battle Pack contains a deck box and 22 cards (Spells, Relics, Gear, and Characters).  Players then download an app to their mobile device, register an account, and take pictures of the cards to activate them within the mobile game.  The goal is to equip characters with a 10 card micro-deck and then to choose three cards to take into individual battles. Players battle in teams of three on three Skylanders.

Players can battle in person or online against opponents worldwide. There is also a single player campaign mode which includes over 60 missions across eight elemental islands.  Players can also trade cards within the game with a trading shield.  Duplicate cards can be combined to level up characters.
 

Booster Packs are available to upgrade players’ decks. Like most CCGs, the game incorporates a rarity scheme, in this case common, rare, epic and ultimate cards. Foil variants with special benefits in the game are also included. Boosters are packed 36 to a display. There are more than 300 cards to collect. MSRP was not announced.

The Skylanders video game, which includes miniatures as a real world component, has sold millions of units and spawned spin-off merch, including comics (see “’Skylanders’ Comic Series and Micro Fun Packs”).