Spells of Genesis, one of the earliest blockchain-based card games, is set to receive a significant overhaul that introduces player evolution, a revamped spell mechanics, and a map-based progression system. Developer Jasper Damman outlined the changes in a recent announcement, emphasizing how they will deepen gameplay while providing tangible value to players through true digital asset ownership.
Player Evolution: From Leveling to True Transformation
Rather than the traditional "leveling up" seen in most games, Spells of Genesis will implement an evolution mechanic. As players spend time in the game and complete levels, they earn gold—used to purchase additional cards—and elemental crystals, which are essential for evolving cards. Each card must be evolved three times before it becomes a blockchain-based asset that can be traded outside the game. Until then, the card remains bound to the player's account.
Damman explained: "We included evolving cards in order to give each card value. When the player has duplicates, he can fuse them together to create stronger ones. If the player has weaker cards, he can sacrifice them for element crystals, which are needed for evolving his stronger cards. And the feeling you get when evolving your card and seeing its stats increase is very exciting. Also, in this way the blockchain-based cards will always be valuable, as they are the final evolution."
Additionally, players can purchase random cards with a higher probability of being strong using the premium in-game currency "gems." Gems can be bought with fiat currency or Bitcrystals, and can also be used to unlock additional features or replenish card health.
Map System Replaces Chapters: A Linear Adventure
The update replaces the chapter-based level selection with a Map of Askian, where levels are unlocked linearly. As players progress, new adventures and areas become available, creating a more immersive exploration experience. The map itself is still being designed; for now, a temporary placeholder map of Moonga is used in the game.
Spell System Transforms Combat Strategy
The most significant gameplay change is the replacement of the old bonus system with a new spell system. Every card will now have one usable spell per match, rather than leaving a bonus at the end of a shot. Spells range from destroying the nearest enemy, to increasing attack by X for each enemy killed during the next shot, or healing the player and allies by three health points.
Damman commented: "We created the new spell-system in order to bring more strategy and diversity into the game. The new spell-system will allow hundreds of deck combinations and strategies, and will be expanded as new cards are released."
These changes are scheduled to go live in a future update and were not included in the patch that rolled out on December 10, 2015. Spells of Genesis continues to evolve as a pioneer in blockchain gaming, offering players a chance to truly own their in-game assets while enjoying an increasingly sophisticated card game experience.