Web3 TCG Splinterlands has announced the upcoming launch of Survival Mode, a new ranked gameplay format set to debut in early 2025.
This format will introduce significant changes to how players manage their collections and compete, including a unique card cooldown system that replaces the traditional energy mechanic.
Designed to complement the existing Modern and Wild formats, Survival Mode offers an alternative gameplay experience with distinct strategic considerations.
What is Splinterlands Survival Mode?
Survival Mode is a ranked gameplay format that will exist alongside the current Modern and Wild formats.
Unlike these existing formats, Survival Mode does not require energy for battles. Instead, it introduces a card cooldown system, where any card defeated in a match becomes temporarily unavailable for use.
This mechanic limits how frequently individual cards can be deployed, effectively making the cards themselves act as a form of energy. The cooldown can be bypassed using Revival Potions, which players can purchase using in-game currencies such as DEC, Credits, or Glint though the exact price of these potions has not been disclosed.
The team plans to release the format in early 2025, as part of a broader series of updates.
How does it differ from other formats?
Whilst Survival Mode shares certain elements with Wild—such as allowing players to use most cards—it has distinct features that set it apart:
- No Energy Costs: Players can engage in battles without spending energy.
- Card Cooldowns: Cards defeated during a battle cannot be reused for a certain time.
- Strategic Collection Management: Players are encouraged to own multiple copies of key cards to maintain consistent gameplay, shifting the focus from individual card strength to broader collection depth.
- Gladiator Card Restrictions: Gladiator cards remain limited to specific rulesets or use with Conscript Summoners.
Mechanics such as matchmaking, season resets, and the rating system will remain consistent with other formats. However, win streak bonuses will not apply in Survival Mode.
Are there any rewards in Survival Mode?
Survival Mode will offer $SPS token rewards, distributed in a manner similar to the Modern and Wild formats. Players earn $SPS based on their performance over a rolling 15-day period, with rewards calculated using the same modifiers as other formats.
In addition to individual match rewards, Survival Mode will feature seasonal leaderboards, with prizes awarded to the highest-rated players. Initially, these rewards will be funded by Splinterlands’ team. If the format proves successful, a governance proposal may be introduced to allow rewards to be funded by the game’s DAO or remaining SPS inflation.
The developers have also indicated that Glint rewards for battles may be added in future seasons after reviewing gameplay data.
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