Games / RPG

Card-en-Ciel

Jan 29, 2026RPG

$29.99eShop

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Prices checked 14 Oct 2026

Trailer

Screenshots

Our take

Card-en-Ciel is an intriguing fusion of JRPG storytelling with roguelike deckbuilding. For $24.99, you're getting a unique game with a lot of personality and replayability, but the execution may not satisfy everyone. Fans of turn-based strategy and card games might find a lot to love here, while those looking for polished gameplay might want to wait for patches.

Card-en-Ciel combines turn-based combat with deckbuilding in a vibrant, virtual world. The real standout is the sheer number of characters - over 300 - each represented by cards that bring their own flair to the battlefield. Battles unfold on a 6x3 grid, demanding strategic thinking as players must consider both card abilities and positioning. Performance on the Switch 2 is decent, although I encountered some frame rate drops during larger enemy encounters. The hybrid nature of the console works well in handheld mode, making it easy to engage with the game's numerous battles on the go. However, the story can feel fragmented, especially if you're not familiar with the myriad references packed in. Compared to other roguelike deckbuilders, like Slay the Spire, this has a more narrative-driven approach but may fall short in terms of gameplay polish.

Pros

Over 300 cards featuring unique characters, adding depth and variety to gameplay
Full vocal performances in both English and Japanese create an engaging narrative
Strategic depth with a 6x3 playfield offers diverse tactical options in battles

Cons

Some stability issues can arise during intense battles, possibly affecting performance
The story might feel disjointed given the multitude of characters and game references
Limited information on the endgame content leaves questions about long-term replayability

Players control Neon as they navigate through dungeons, select battles, and build a deck of cards representing characters from various franchises. The strategic turn-based combat emphasizes positioning and card synergies, while earning new allies enhances deck customization. There's also the freedom to roam and choose your battles, allowing for a tailored experience each run.

On Switch 2

On the Switch 2, Card-en-Ciel runs reasonably well with only occasional frame drops during chaotic scenes. The controls are responsive, whether playing docked or handheld, and the game's art style translates nicely to the console's display, enhancing the vibrant character designs.

Who it's for

This game is perfect for JRPG and card game enthusiasts who appreciate a good story and character-driven gameplay. However, players looking for a streamlined experience or those who dislike a learning curve may want to skip this one.

About

Card-en-Ciel is a JRPG take on roguelike deckbuilders, with a full story, over 300 cards each with unique characters, 50 full vocal songs, and a 6x3 playfield for strategic depth. Each battle will earn you new allies to add to your deck, powering up to take on the boss and advance the story. Freely roam around dungeons and battle the enemies you choose. You'll take control of Neon, a self-professed detective who specializes in crimes in full-dive VR games. When an in-development game is suddenly overrun by countless characters from other games old and new, Neon has to delve into virtual dungeons to stop them. Each of the over 300 cards you'll collect features a unique character from those games. They come alive with full English and Japanese voice acting, talking with their friends and foes and reacting in battle. Recruit powerful Muse cards who begin performing when you meet their conditions, activating unique effects to enable your most degenerate combos. Each Muse sings a different song, created with respect to the era and genre you would expect from their original game, with 50 vocal songs in total. Full content available day 1:Over 10 story dungeons, each with different cards to add to your deck and collect10 extra difficulty levels, with new rule twists in addition to stronger enemiesSpecial "Grand Battle Dungeons" that allow you to construct a deck to challenge withOver 50 random events featuring various game characters, real and imaginedDaily and weekly dungeon challenges with online leaderboardsReal-time online head-to-head battles