The viral indie hit TCG Card Shop Simulator has received a major new update, introducing tournament functionality and a Camera Mode as the game continues its march toward a full 1.0 release.
Available now on Steam, Xbox Game Preview, and Xbox Game Pass, the update transforms players’ in-game card shops into competitive hubs where NPC customers can battle it out in organized tournaments.
Since launching in Early Access, the game has surpassed 3 million copies sold, building a strong following around its blend of shop management and collectible card gameplay. This latest update expands that formula by giving players more control over how their stores operate and evolve.
Run Your Own Tournaments
The headline addition in this update is the ability to host and manage tournaments directly from your shop. Players can begin by purchasing a Tournament Prize Shelf from the in-game MY DIY store, which serves as the centerpiece for competitive events.
Using a new Tournament app on the in-game phone, players can customize every aspect of their events. This includes setting the tournament size, ranging from small 8-player brackets to larger 32-player competitions, as well as determining entry fees to shape the stakes and rewards.
Players can also assign specific play tables or automate the setup process, making it easy to organize events regardless of shop layout.
Customize Prizes and Watch Matches Unfold
One of the more immersive aspects of the system is the ability to stock the Tournament Prize Shelf with real inventory items. Cards and products placed on the shelf become the official rewards for top finishers, including first, second, third, and Top 8 placements.
The quality of these prizes, along with the entry fee, directly influences how quickly NPC participants sign up. Once registration is filled, the tournament begins the following day, with customers automatically pairing off and competing across multiple rounds.
While the update adds a competitive layer to the experience, it’s important to note that this is not a multiplayer mode. Instead, tournaments are fully simulated through NPC interactions, allowing players to manage and observe the action as part of their shop’s ecosystem.
New Camera Mode Captures the Action
Alongside tournaments, the update introduces a Camera Mode accessible through the in-game phone. Players can take snapshots of key moments, including tournament winners, prize displays, and their store’s overall progress.
All captured images are saved to an in-game gallery, allowing players to document their journey and showcase their shop’s success over time.
Discount During Steam Spring Sale
To celebrate the update and build momentum toward its upcoming 1.0 launch, TCG Card Shop Simulator is currently available at a 20% discount during the Steam Spring Sale, running from March 19 through March 26.
