Product & Retail Roadmap: From Blister Packs to the Dark Set

MetaZoo Monday brought new clarity on the company’s retail and product strategy, ranging from blister pack distribution in major stores to ongoing challenges with TCGPlayer integration. With Dynamic Decks and the Dark Set on the horizon, the roadmap for the next wave of releases is becoming more defined.

Blister Packs To Enter Big-Box Stores

One of the most direct questions focused on whether blisters would appear in big-box retail (think large stores such as Walmart or Target). Charlie gave a short but definitive answer: “Yes.” Blister packs have been prioritized because of the access they provide to retailers where MetaZoo currently lacks a presence. He also explained why the company has avoided creating a one-to-one equivalent of products like Elite Trainer Boxes.

Probably not a 1 to 1 in the immediate future, but there are going to continue to be unique pack outs over time. Especially as we test out new things. Flex Deck style products where there are a small number of boosters bundled with a deck or similar limited product will continue to be a thing. Complicating the packing and order logistics is tough at this size, but we’ve prioritized the blister pack-outs in the short run because they allow us access to retail spaces that we currently do not have a presence.

- Charlie Hurlocker

TCGPlayer Integration Still Pending

The conversation also addressed MetaZoo’s ongoing efforts with TCGPlayer. Despite months of outreach, the platform has not yet agreed to add MetaZoo. Charlie described the situation candidly:

I’ve emailed. I’ve called. I’ve begged. I’ve pleaded. I’ve sent reps to GAMA. I’ve asked our contacts at eBay to reach out. Unfortunately, it’s not my call to make. We are more than happy to fully support them with images, card information, etc. I’m willing to do a promo card if they require participation in their advertising offerings to support. We’ve shown them the data on sales and we’ve told them our vision. But they gotta decide to support it. The best strategy is to continue to produce a great looking game and prove that we have an audience that they want to service. That’s the only thing we control. But I’ll keep asking! Candidly, they care more about what their customers and retailers want, so those of you that I know are asking regularly, keep up the cause.

- Charlie Hurlocker

Dynamic Decks and Flex Decks

Looking ahead, Charlie confirmed that no mini set is planned before the release of the Dark Set. Instead, the Prize Packs being produced for Organized Play will serve as a substitute for a smaller release. Dynamic Decks, however, are on the horizon and will not follow normal set cycles.

Flex Decks are not themed to specific sets, so I wouldn’t expect them to follow set cycles. The dynamic decks are the next product in a similar class that you will see.

- Charlie Hurlocker

When asked if Dynamic Decks would function similarly to Keyforge's randomized, balanced deck format Charlie replied:

This is the idea, yes

- Charlie Hurlocker

Dark Set Anchors 2025

The Dark Set itself remains on track for 2025. Charlie acknowledged the uncertainties of manufacturing timelines but reassured fans of its arrival.

Yes, 2025. I see other questions asking for more specific information, but to just keep things 100% with you guys, the world of trading card manufacturing is completely bananas right now. I’m sure you all spend enough time in the TCG world to know that it’s on fire in the best and worst ways lol. At the production level, that all gets felt out. Our partners have been amazing to us and that relationship remains strong. But part of keeping that strong is being realistic with our asks. It’s not a thing where I can demand X date of delivery and everyone gets in line. We work together toward our goal and we get more concrete as we approach.

- Charlie Hurlocker

Legend Rares & Looking Ahead

Legend Rares were also highlighted as the game’s primary “experimentation space.” Charlie confirmed they allow room for special treatments like alt arts or expanded rarity tiers for popular cards, leaving the door open for future surprises in the higher rarity slot.

The roadmap laid out in this MetaZoo Monday shows a measured but ambitious approach: blister packs driving retail growth, flex and dynamic decks diversifying product offerings, and the Dark Set anchoring 2025. As MetaZoo continues to navigate the wider TCG marketplace, each step is designed to strengthen distribution, support play, and build anticipation for the future.