The Tea DivisionFor the longest time, Teamfight Tactics has been the premier auto battler, with Riot Games’ considerable weight backing it up. Now, a new game from one of the world’s most storied designers could be set to take it on directly.
Vanguard Exiles is a collaboration between Magic: The Gathering designer Richard Garfield and developer The Tea Division, with the latter describing it as a “competitive strategy gameplay experience unlike any other, offering new scenarios in each round ensuring no two turns are ever alike.”
From the limited look we have had at the game so far, it looks like even experienced genre players will have a lot to get used to. The game board rearranges after every turn, with the main goal being to use your units to control territory.
With plenty to jump into, here’s everything you need to know about Vanguard Exiles.
Early Access release date
Vanguard Exiles will enter its Early Access period on March 11, 2025 as confirmed on the game’s official store page.
What platforms is Vanguard Exiles releasing on?
Vanguard Exiles is releasing exclusively on PC via Steam after the Early Access date above, with the demo available to download now.
Trailers
Gameplay Trailer
Quick Start Guide
What is Vanguard Exiles about?
Though the overall theme of the game and its story are a little opaque at the moment, Garfield broke down exactly what he has tried to achieve with the team at Tea Division.
“Vanguard Exiles combines tabletop design with digital design into a unique and eclectic gameplay experience. The variety offered by the game is exciting, and skillful play introduces all sorts of unexpected novelty.
“My favorite thing in game design is having an interesting space to explore—like with Magic: the Gathering and Keyforge. Like those games, Vanguard Exiles is deeply interesting, and I am delighted to share it with a broader audience!”
That’s all there is to know right now! Make sure to check back into this hub as we update it with new information when more becomes available.
