If you've been waiting for Riot Games to make its move into the trading card game scene beyond Legends of Runeterra, the time is almost here. Riot is hyping up its next big project: Riftbound, a physical TCG!

Whether you're a longtime League of Legends player, a fan of Riot's deep lore, or just someone with a shelf full of booster boxes from every major card game, Riftbound is shaping up to be a release worth watching.

Here's what we know so far, and why you might want to keep your deck boxes (and wallet) ready.

Riftbound Is Riot's First Physical TCG

That's right. Riftbound is a traditional tabletop trading card game. Unlike Legends of Runeterra, which exists only in the digital space, this new title focuses on physical cards. While Riot may introduce digital tools or a companion app, Riftbound is being developed with paper-first gameplay in mind.

Here's what we know so far:

• Published by: UVS Games
• Format: Traditional physical TCG with starter decks, booster packs, and organized play
• Release window: October 2025 in North America, with early previews or demo kits happening right now!

Given Riot's strong reputation for game design and long-term support, Riftbound is already generating a lot of buzz.

Why Riftbound Deserves Your Attention

When Riot creates something new, they tend to go all in. From League and TFT to Arcane, the studio consistently delivers polished, community-driven experiences.

Here's why Riftbound is already standing out:

• The Runeterra universe brings rich lore and iconic characters, which gives the card pool immediate appeal
• Riot is reportedly working with veteran TCG designers from games like Magic: The Gathering and Lorcana
• The game is expected to support both new players and competitive veterans, offering depth without overwhelming complexity
• Riot already has the tools and community infrastructure to support local events, online discussion, and tournament circuits

Whether you enjoy casual gameplay, competitive formats, or card collecting, Riftbound looks like it will offer a path for all types of players.

What to Expect from Gameplay

Riot has shared full gameplay details with core rules and trial decks, and we can also look toward:

• Champion-based deck-building, where each deck is centered around a powerful Legend, such as Jinx or Viktor.
• A turn system that involves priority sequencing or reactive plays, similar to what we've seen in Legends of Runeterra
• Strategic gameplay built around tempo, board control, and value-driven decisions
• Deck archetypes that support aggressive, midrange, control, and combo strategies

Based on past games, we can expect something that is easy to learn but rewards deep mastery.

Visuals, Lore, and Collectability

If you're in this for the art or lore, Riftbound has a lot going for it. Riot consistently delivers stunning visuals and memorable characters, and that's expected to carry over into this game.

Here's what we can look forward to:

• Full-art champion cards featuring original illustrations
• Alternate art and premium foils available through events and special products
• Cards that expand on the existing Runeterra story, with new narratives tied into gameplay mechanics

Whether you're playing competitively or keeping cards sleeved in a binder, there will be value in both the aesthetics and the lore.

When Can You Play It?

The official release window is October 2025. Riot began rolling out early demo kits, play-test events at conventions, and previews through social media.

What we expect to see:

• Wide support at hobby shops
• Opportunities to try the game through early access or in-store events
• A digital companion experience to support deck-building and community tools

CoolStuffInc will be keeping a close eye on release updates and will have product available as soon as it becomes available.

Final Thoughts

Riftbound has all the ingredients of a successful trading card game. It's being developed by one of the most trusted names in modern gaming, set in a popular universe, and backed by a design team with a strong history in card game innovation.

Whether you're building around your favorite champion, chasing limited art variants, or looking for a new tournament scene to dive into, this is a game to keep your eyes on.

Stay Ahead with CoolStuffInc

When Riftbound officially launches, CoolStuffInc will be your go-to source for sealed product, singles, and accessories. We'll also provide news, preorders, and updates on launch day events and organized play.

Bookmark our Riftbound page, follow us on socials, and be the first to know when preorders go live.

Are you excited to try Riftbound when it releases? Let us know on X: @_EmeraldWeapon_ and tell us which Legend you're hoping to build around.