Overwatch League fans will soon be able to collect and trade digital cards featuring their favorite pro players.
Activision Blizzard has agreed to a deal with The Upper Deck Company to produce trading cards based on the Overwatch League. The multi-year deal includes trading cards through Upper Deck’s digital e-Pack platform. This is an online program that lets users buy and open packs, as well as trade cards with other OWL fans. Collectors can also order physical versions of their favorite trading cards.
“Collaborating with Upper Deck allows the Overwatch League to offer fans everywhere the opportunity to collect and trade exclusive cards and collectibles—featuring their favorite teams and players—that can be cherished for years to come,” Blizzard’s head of esports licensing Daniel Siegel said.
The first set will be released on June 19 through Upper Deck’s e-Pack website. The 125-card base set will focus on players and teams from the inaugural Overwatch League season.The cards will feature not only players, but autographs, game-worn jerseys, and even gaming equipment used during OWL matches.
In addition to the cards, the new deal also includes stickers, posters, and other memorabilia. Limited edition pre-release promo packs will be handed out to fans attending this week’s Overwatch League All-Star Game.
“We are very excited to collaborate with the Overwatch League for our first esports deal and to deliver new and innovative products to Overwatch League fans everywhere,” Upper Deck president Jason Marsherah said.
This is also a way for Upper Deck to celebrate the trading card company’s 30th anniversary. The company was originally founded in 1988. It started with traditional sports leagues, like Major League Baseball, but has since ventured into other properties including Marvel and Yu-Gi-Oh!.
This is the first esports deal for Upper Deck, but fellow trading card brand Panini previously signed a one-year dal with compLexity Gaming earlier this year. Panini produced trading cards and posters for the esports organization.
Learn more about the new trading cards here.
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