Re-entering the world of Hearthstone as a new or returning player may seem overwhelming, but there’s good news: Blizzard has introduced catch-up packs at BlizzCon 2023 to strengthen card collections. These packs encompass cards from all Standard expansions preceding the final one of the year, Showdown in the Badlands. In contrast to regular card packs, catch-up packs are dynamic, evaluating your card collection to fill in any gaps. However, there’s a limitation to prevent extensive purchases for collection completion.
In an exclusive interview at BlizzCon 2023, we spoke with executive producer Nathan Lyons-Smith and game director Tyler Bielman to gain insights into the rollout of these Hearthstone catch-up packs.
Lyons-Smith emphasizes, “We’re doing more than tip our toe in terms of the availability of these [catch-up packs].” Bielman clarifies that it’s not simply another item for purchase; instead, it’s a tool designed to assist players with smaller collections in expanding, fostering an even playing field.
Players receive free catch-up packs upon signing in when the new expansion launches, and an event tied to Showdown in the Badlands allows them to earn five more. While catch-up packs can be obtained through pre-order bundles and launch-day bundles, additional purchases are restricted until Blizzard makes more packs available.
During a demonstration at BlizzCon, opening 20 catch-up packs on a fresh account instantly unlocked 798 cards. These packs feature cards from five expansions in Hearthstone’s Standard format, totaling 851 collectible cards. Notably, the three oldest expansions will transition to the Wild format next year, taking 523 cards out of the 851.
Although Lyons-Smith and Bielman don’t specify the set price for these packs, catch-up pack bundles will be accessible in the Hearthstone shop from Tuesday, November 14. For a detailed breakdown of how catch-up packs distribute cards, visit Blizzard‘s support website.
In the meantime, familiarize yourself with one of the best multiplayer games by exploring our guide to the best Hearthstone decks for beginners. Stay updated with daily PC gaming news, guides, and reviews by following us on Google News. Reporting from BlizzCon 2023 provided by Lauren Bergin.