Riftbound Surges Ahead with Exclusive Champion Reveal and Ambitious Future Plans
Since its explosive launch in late October, Riftbound, the trading card game spin-off from Riot Games’ acclaimed League of Legends universe, has captivated players and collectors alike. The initial release saw unprecedented demand, with packs, themed decks, and the integrated tutorial game, Proving Grounds, selling out rapidly. The burgeoning competitive scene is already thriving, with tournaments sprouting up nationwide, signaling a strong start for the new TCG.
The recent PAX Unplugged event served as the official unveiling for Riftbound‘s second major set, titled Spiritforged, slated for release in early 2026. Attendees were treated to a comprehensive panel led by Dave Guskin, the Lead Designer for Riftbound at Riot Games, who detailed new cards, innovative mechanics, and exciting new Champions. The excitement has since rippled across the internet with various outlets sharing previews of the upcoming set.
Exclusive Spiritforged Champion: The Designer’s Insight
In an exclusive interview at PAX Unplugged, Guskin shared his insights into the internal reception of Riftbound‘s successful launch and elaborated on the team’s vision for Spiritforged and beyond. Most notably, we are thrilled to exclusively reveal a new Champion card from the Spiritforged set. Guskin also provided his expert analysis on how this formidable new Champion can be strategically deployed to dominate the battlefield.
Our Take: A Promising Trajectory
The initial success of Riftbound, coupled with Riot Games’ proven track record in fostering passionate communities around its IPs, bodes exceptionally well for the TCG’s future. The rapid sell-outs indicate a significant pent-up demand for a League of Legends TCG, and the early strategic depth hinted at by the Spiritforged reveals suggests a game designed for longevity. The focus on community engagement, as evidenced by the growing tournament scene and detailed designer insights, is crucial for any TCG looking to establish a lasting presence. The exclusive Champion reveal underscores our commitment to bringing you the latest and most significant news directly from the source.
With Spiritforged on the horizon in early 2026, Riftbound is positioning itself not just as a fleeting fad, but as a serious contender in the trading card game market, promising continued evolution and engagement for its rapidly growing player base.
This story was based on reporting from GameSpot. Read the full report here.





