[wahjah]

M:tG is a behemoth in the space, primarily on the back of the physical cards. Magic Online has a really poor interface, but it can qualify you for a pro tour which has a fairly large payout. The other digital magic games have much better interfaces, but don't tie into the competitive aspects of the game. They still solidify the brand.

I'm curious how these guys plan to compete with the major players in the space. Most of the real products have a huge backing and insane marketing budgets.

Is there a way they're trying to sell this beyond, "hey, why aren't you just playing the largest (and currently growing) CCG?"

[jrpt]

The biggest point of differentiation is asynchronous play. You can't play Magic and most CCGs asynchronously, because every card you play has the option of being responded to (by counterspells, for instance).

The benefit of asynchronous play is that you get to play with your friends and family, regardless of time or location. This makes the game more social and fun, and better than playing random players from the internet.

More info: http://orbsccg.com/comparison

[anonymoushn]

Are you concerned about competition? Many online CCGs have rulesets capable of supporting asynchronous play (Might and Magic: Duel of Champions, Solforge, Sword Girls, Elements the Game, etc.) and Infinity Wars' devs have publicly announced that they will do it.

Notably Hex seems to have the same issue as MtG where asynchronous play is not practical.

[jrpt]

Well there's a lot of difference in all those games, and they're going to attract different types of players. Just compare Sword Girls with Solforge, for instance.

Just as important if not more than competing with other games is competing for awareness. I've done surveys of what other games people play, and the majority of players know about Magic but are unaware of the other games out there.

So I'm not overly concerned but I have done my research and follow what the other games are doing.