How the media covered the NARUTO Card Game reveal — a reaction roundup

Since Bandai announced the NARUTO Card Game on June 18, 2026, major English-language outlets have been quick to pick up the news. This column looks at what each outlet reported and how the announcement was received.

The official press release (PR Newswire, June 18)

The starting point was the official press release from BANDAI CARD GAMES, distributed via PR Newswire. It announced:

• A simultaneous worldwide release planned for 2027
• The world’s first Tutorial Sessions at Gen Con 2026 (July 30 – August 2, Indianapolis)
• A gift set for participants including the “CP-001 Chakra Card -Gen Con 2026 Ver.-”
• A fuller reveal scheduled for July 29, the day before Gen Con opens

It also carried a message from series creator Masashi Kishimoto: “I truly hope these cards find their way to both your hands and your hearts.”

Anime News Network (June 18)

Anime News Network reported the announcement the same day. Beyond the press release, ANN noted that the next reveal is set for July 29 at 10:00 a.m. EDT (23:00 JST) and is expected to cover card designs and the roadmap. It also pointed out that Bandai previously ran a Naruto CCG from 2006 to 2013, making this a return after roughly a decade.

ICv2 (June 19)

Hobby-industry outlet ICv2 offered an industry-focused take, framing the announcement as following the English-edition reboots of the Gundam and Digimon TCGs — Bandai’s second attempt at an English NARUTO card game. On gameplay, it reported the TCG will be competitive and strategy-focused.

Gizmodo (June 21)

Gizmodo covered the news from the angle of NARUTO joining the anime TCG boom. It noted that Gen Con 2026 will offer free one-hour playtest sessions, with fuller gameplay and character roster details expected at the convention.

Takeaway — strong attention worldwide

Within just a few days of the announcement, anime news sites, hobby-industry media, and major culture outlets had all covered the NARUTO Card Game — a clear sign of how much attention it is drawing. As ICv2 points out, expectations are high for a title that follows Bandai’s recent string of successful TCG launches in English-speaking markets.

All eyes are now on the full reveal on July 29 (Wed) at 23:00 JST / 10:00 a.m. EDT. We will confirm and report the details as soon as they are published.