10 Ways Publishers Can Support Their Playing Card Decks

When it comes to playing card decks, the publisher’s role doesn’t end with the release of the game or the deck itself. In fact, ongoing support for a game is often what helps it maintain long-term popularity and a loyal fanbase. By being proactive in continuing to engage with players and the broader community, publishers can ensure that their product stays relevant, accessible, and loved. Whether you’re working with a classic deck of cards or a custom, thematic set, here are ten ways publishers can continue supporting their playing card decks long after the initial launch.

 

1. Answering Questions Online

 

Publishers can significantly support their playing card decks by maintaining an open channel of communication with their community. Online forums like BoardGameGeek, Reddit, and Discord provide an excellent platform for players to ask questions, share strategies, or offer feedback. When designers or publishers respond to these queries, it not only builds trust but also fosters a strong connection between the creators and the players.

 

For example, game designers such as Shem Phillips from Garphill Games and Bruno Glassco from Fantasy Realms are known for their accessibility, which helps fans feel heard and valued. Publishers should strive to answer questions even years after the game’s release to ensure ongoing engagement.

 

 

2. Non-Exclusive Promos

 

Promotional items, such as limited-edition cards or special deck variants, are often a significant part of a playing card deck’s initial release. However, one of the most appreciated ways publishers can support their games is by ensuring that all promos are non-exclusive and non-limited. While these exclusive items are exciting for early adopters, making them available to everyone ensures that new players, no matter when they join the community, can enjoy the same content. This also gives long-term fans a reason to keep playing, knowing that they can always get access to additional content if they choose to.

 

3. Onboarding Assistance

 

A game’s success often hinges on how easy it is for new players to get the game to the table for the first time. To support their playing card decks, publishers should invest in onboarding resources. These might include playthrough videos, detailed card summaries, and guides for beginners. Collaborating with popular content creators or platforms like Watch It Played or Gaming Rules can be invaluable, as these resources make it easier for players to grasp the game’s mechanics and start playing right away. Moreover, card game creators can create tutorials or example games specifically tailored for newcomers.

 

4. Keep the Game in Print

 

One of the simplest and most effective ways a publisher can support their playing card deck is by keeping the game in print. Many games suffer from short print runs that quickly sell out, leaving potential players frustrated and unable to find a copy. While some games may not have enduring popularity, ensuring that the deck remains available through distributors, retailers, and webstores keeps the game accessible for new players. In the long run, consistent availability helps reinforce the publisher’s commitment to supporting the game and its community.

 

5. Supporting Videos and Live Plays

 

In today’s digital world, videos and live playthroughs can have a significant impact on a game’s longevity. Publishers can create official videos to showcase various aspects of the game, such as advanced strategies, deck variants, or deeper dives into the game’s lore. These videos help keep the community engaged and excited, even after the initial buzz has died down. In addition, live playthroughs, whether on platforms like Twitch or YouTube, can draw attention to the deck and attract new players. Whether the game is new or has been out for years, continued video content reinforces the game’s relevance in the marketplace.

 

6. Expansions, Accessories, and Organizer Boxes

 

For more intricate card games, creating expansions or accessories can add depth to the experience. Expansions might introduce new cards, new mechanics, or entire new modes of play, which can significantly increase the replayability of a game. Alongside expansions, supporting products like organizer boxes, deck sleeves, and card inserts make it easier for players to organize and store their playing cards.

 

This can be particularly helpful for games with a large number of cards or intricate setup requirements. A publisher’s ability to continue expanding the game universe or improving the player’s experience with practical accessories shows ongoing support for the player base.

 

 

7. Digital Versions and Updates

 

With the growing popularity of digital gaming, offering a digital version of a card deck can be a game-changer for publishers. Digital versions allow players to enjoy the game even if they can’t gather in person, and it provides opportunities for worldwide competition. Publishers should also be open to releasing digital updates or patches for these versions. This could include balancing adjustments, bug fixes, or even content updates. Many successful digital games, such as Marvel Snap or Radlands, use this strategy to keep players engaged and to improve the overall experience.

 

 

8. Community Building and Engagement

 

Building a community around the game can greatly benefit both the publisher and the players. Online communities on platforms like Discord or Facebook provide spaces for fans to connect, share strategies, and create fan content. Publishers who actively participate in these communities by hosting Q&A sessions, sharing development updates, or supporting fan-driven initiatives can strengthen the game’s longevity.

 

Some publishers even host game-specific newsletters, providing fresh content and keeping the community engaged. As an example, Unmatched has cultivated a fantastic Discord server where players exchange ideas and experiences, further solidifying the game’s place in the community.

 

9. Encouraging Fan Creations

 

Fan-created content can be a huge asset to a game’s community. Encouraging players to create their own house rules, deck variants, or expansions fosters a sense of ownership and creativity. Publishers can make it easier for fans to contribute by providing guidelines or offering files that can be used to create compatible fan content, such as printable cards or digital assets.

 

Notable examples of this include the Gloomhaven community, where players have created their own modules, and Stonemaier Games, which has encouraged fan contributions to the Wingspan game, including fan-art cards. By embracing fan creativity, publishers show their appreciation for the community’s input and ideas.

 

10. Retail Support

 

Even with the rise of digital platforms, brick-and-mortar retail stores remain a vital part of the gaming ecosystem. To ensure that their playing card decks continue to reach new audiences, publishers should support local retailers through organized play, tournaments, and providing demo copies. Having games readily available in stores increases their visibility, while organized play can incentivize players to keep returning. Games like X-Wing and Magic: The Gathering have done an excellent job of supporting retail with organized play events, ensuring the ongoing success of their games in physical stores.

 

Conclusion

 

In the world of playing card decks, ongoing support from publishers is essential to ensure long-term success and a strong, active community. Whether it’s answering questions, providing continuous content, or engaging with fans, there are countless ways publishers can help keep their games relevant and loved. By investing time and resources into these strategies, publishers can create lasting connections with players and help their card decks stand the test of time. From expanding the game world to offering replacements for lost cards, these strategies ensure that players remain excited and invested for years to come.