A magical game for a magical device? Hothead Games released a new card battle game this week, Kard Combat. One of the co-designers of the game is none other than Richard Garfield, creator of Magic: The Gathering. “For years I’ve wanted to create Magic-like experiences for people who play video games. Kard Combat on iPhone and iPad does this and is simple enough for anyone to pick up and play, but with plenty of depth for the hardcore player. Hothead has created a truly magical game.” (I think he was obliged to say that.)
With single player and multiplayer modes, the player can choose one of four mage types, and then take part in an ancient tournament of cards and magic. The game is free to download, but is limited to the first four battles for each mage. To unlock the full set of battles for each mage type is $0.99 as an in-app purchase, or $2.99 for all four. You can also choose to unlock all the cards in the entire game for $9.99.
There are over 100 hand drawn cards in the game to unlock and collect, and they are quite beautiful to look at. But the game play is where Kard Combat really hooks you in. Admittedly my experience with Magic is nil, so playing Kard Combat was the first time I had played a Magic-type card game. Like any good strategy game, however, the rules are easy to pick up but difficult to master. I found myself reaching the end of the demo and wanting more. Each campaign can be played in three difficulty levels, so Kard Combat should give everyone a rewarding play through no matter their experience with the game.
Check out the video, or better yet, just get the game and try it out.
