Bandai Namco files patent for a digital version of the popular anime-based card game

The Dragon Ball franchise has been a global phenomenon for decades, spawning countless anime, manga, video games, and merchandise. One of the latest additions to the Dragon Ball universe is the Dragon Ball Super Card Game, a physical trading card game that launched in 2017 and has been steadily growing in popularity and complexity ever since.

Now, fans of the card game may have something new to look forward to, as Bandai Namco, the publisher of the Dragon Ball Super Card Game, has recently filed a patent for a digital version of the game. The patent, which was filed in October 2022 and published in January 2024, describes a system and method for providing a digital card game service that allows players to collect, trade, and battle with cards featuring characters and scenes from the Dragon Ball series.

What is the Dragon Ball Super Card Game?

The Dragon Ball Super Card Game is a two-player competitive card game that uses cards based on the characters and events from the Dragon Ball Super anime series, as well as other Dragon Ball media. The game takes several mechanics from both Magic: The Gathering and Pokémon and puts a unique Dragon Ball spin on things. At its core, it is a game about building up your power level to crush your opponents in battle, which helps to replicate the epic battles from the series.

The game has a global player base and an official website that provides information on the rules, card lists, events, and strategies. The game also has a digital companion app called Dragon Ball Super Card Game Fusion World, which allows players to scan their physical cards and use them in a simplified digital version of the game. However, the app is not a full-fledged digital card game, as it does not support online multiplayer, deck building, or trading.

Why are players excited about a possible digital card game?

A digital version of the Dragon Ball Super Card Game could offer many benefits and features that the physical version cannot, such as:

Online multiplayer: Players could challenge other players from around the world, join tournaments, and rank up on leaderboards.
Deck building: Players could create and customize their own decks using a large pool of digital cards, without having to worry about the availability or cost of physical cards.
Trading: Players could exchange cards with other players, either for free or for in-game currency, and expand their collection.
Accessibility: Players could play the game anytime and anywhere, using their preferred device, such as a smartphone, tablet, or PC.
Updates: The game could be updated regularly with new cards, features, and bug fixes, keeping the game fresh and balanced.

What are the challenges and uncertainties of a digital card game?

While a digital version of the Dragon Ball Super Card Game could be a dream come true for many fans, there are also some potential challenges and uncertainties that could affect its development and reception, such as:

Compatibility: The game would have to be compatible with the physical version, meaning that the rules, cards, and formats would have to be consistent and synchronized. This could limit the design space and creativity of the digital version, as well as create confusion and frustration for players who switch between the two versions.
Monetization: The game would have to find a fair and sustainable way to monetize the digital cards, without alienating or exploiting the players. This could involve a balance between free-to-play and pay-to-win models, as well as a consideration of the value and rarity of the physical cards.
Competition: The game would have to compete with other established and popular digital card games, such as Hearthstone, Magic: The Gathering Arena, and Legends of Runeterra. These games have loyal fan bases, high production values, and years of experience and refinement. The game would have to offer something unique and appealing to attract and retain players.
Demand: The game would have to gauge the actual demand and interest of the players for a digital version of the Dragon Ball Super Card Game. While the physical version has a dedicated and growing community, it is not clear how many of them would be willing or able to switch to or supplement with a digital version. The game would also have to appeal to new and casual players who may not be familiar with or invested in the Dragon Ball franchise or the card game genre.

What is the current status and future of the digital card game?

As of now, the digital card game is still a rumor, as Bandai Namco has not officially confirmed or announced anything related to it. The patent is only an indication of a possible intention or plan, and does not guarantee that the game will ever be developed or released. However, the patent does show that Bandai Namco is aware of the potential and popularity of the Dragon Ball Super Card Game, and is exploring ways to expand and enhance it.

The future of the digital card game will depend on many factors, such as the feedback and support of the players, the resources and vision of the developers, and the performance and direction of the Dragon Ball franchise. If the game does come to fruition, it could be a game-changer for the Dragon Ball Super Card Game, and a new way for fans to enjoy and celebrate the Dragon Ball universe.