Riot Games is stepping into the world of physical trading card games with its latest project, Project K, a fresh competitor to Magic: The Gathering and a notable expansion of the League of Legends universe. Designed for in-person play, this venture aims to create a vibrant community centered around strategic card battles.

Led by game director Dave Guskin and executive producer Chengran Chai, Project K is developed by a small, dedicated team within Riot. Unlike its digital sibling, Legends of Runeterra, Project K is not a physical adaptation of the online card game. Instead, it draws inspiration from the intricate champion designs and lore of League of Legends, incorporating stunning artwork sourced from Riot’s broader game portfolio.

The initial rollout for Project K is set for early 2025 in China, thanks to a local publishing partnership. Riot is actively seeking partners to bring the game to global audiences, including the U.S. The company envisions a robust competitive scene, complete with national and international tournaments, to support the game's community and long-term growth.

Hints of Project K surfaced earlier under the name Rune Battlegrounds, with a trailer showcasing iconic characters like Darius, Ahri, and Miss Fortune. Although initially planned for a China-exclusive release, Riot’s broader ambitions have shifted, aiming for worldwide availability.

This announcement adds to Riot’s already bustling schedule. The studio has been busy with League of Legends, the acclaimed Arcane Netflix series, and upcoming titles like the fighting game 2XKO and a highly anticipated League MMO. With Project K, Riot continues to expand its universe, offering fans another way to engage with their favorite champions.