Heart of Crown Announced for Nintendo Switch: Release Date, Gameplay, and Physical Edition Details

Nintendo Switch continues to expand its robust library of card and strategy games with the upcoming launch of Heart of Crown, officially announced for the platform today.

Developed as an online deckbuilding card game, Heart of Crown will release on Nintendo Switch on December 18, 2025.

Fans of strategic gameplay and competitive online modes can look forward to both digital and physical editions of the game, with the latter confirmed for Japan and special collectible bonuses available for early buyers. Heart of Crown is set amidst an empire in turmoil following the untimely death of a great emperor.

With no definitive successor named, seven princesses become candidates for the throne, thrusting the realm into a contest for power and stability.

Players assume the role of influential members of the empire, tasked with securing the throne for their chosen princess and restoring unity to the continent. Based on the Heart of Crown 2nd Edition—which relaunched in 2022—Heart of Crown Online brings its acclaimed deckbuilding mechanics to a new generation.

The gameplay revolves around four-player, turn-based matches where participants use resources earned from their estates to purchase new lands and action cards.

Strategic deck growth and the timely recruitment of princesses are essential, as each princess brings unique abilities that can sway the balance of power.

To win, players must rally support from senators, dukes, and other key figures to raise their succession score; reaching 20 points crowns their princess as the new emperor. A notable feature of Heart of Crown on Nintendo Switch is online cross-play, allowing players to compete seamlessly across supported platforms.

Both ranked and free matches are accessible, providing opportunities for competitive and casual play alike.

The game's online capabilities reinforce its position as a modern digital card game tailored for multiplayer experiences, directly addressing the growing demand for online-ready strategy titles among Switch owners. In addition to its digital release on the Nintendo eShop, Heart of Crown will receive a physical edition in Japan.

Fans who pre-order the Japanese retail version will receive an exclusive set of eight hologram cards, adding an extra incentive for collectors and series enthusiasts.

As of this announcement, import pre-orders are expected to open soon, with further updates to be provided by official channels and retailers. Heart of Crown is developed by a dedicated team focused on delivering a strategic yet accessible experience to card game aficionados.

Its blend of classic deckbuilding elements, fantasy storytelling, and robust online features is poised to appeal both to returning fans and newcomers to the genre.

For more information, players can watch the official release date trailer and stay tuned for additional details via upcoming Nintendo Direct presentations and the Nintendo eShop. With its confirmed release date, cross-platform multiplayer, and special physical edition for Japan, Heart of Crown is shaping up to be a noteworthy addition to the Nintendo Switch lineup, further diversifying the platform’s strategy offerings as 2025 approaches.

Nintendo Switch Nintendo Japan Switch developer Heart of Crown deckbuilding card game Heart of Crown Online