The Story Behind STACKED: From Homemade Prototype to Final Product

The Story Behind STACKED.

STACKED has been in development for nearly a year, going through multiple redesigns, extensive testing, and six different prototypes before reaching the final product.

The journey began with four homemade prototypes, followed by two supplier prototypes, with every version helping improve the gameplay, balance, and overall experience. Throughout development, STACKED was tested by more than 80 players, including friends, family, and board game cafe communities, helping shape the game through real feedback and competitive play sessions.

A huge focus during development was making sure STACKED always felt balanced, competitive, and fresh to play. Every mechanic, card, and interaction was carefully adjusted to create a game where strategy matters, but where players always feel like they still have a chance to win. The goal was to avoid situations where one player becomes impossible to catch, whilst still rewarding smart decisions, timing, and tactical gameplay.

The result is a fast-paced strategy card game designed to stay exciting from the first turn to the last, with high replayability and constant opportunities for players to adapt their strategy.

STACKED is the very first release from Cardstack Games – and it’s only the beginning. Plans for the STACKED universe are already underway, including a future expansion currently in development.