Originally announced as a Spring '06 release, Upper Deck's World of Warcraft TCG will be shown off at Gen Con Indy next week (according to the official site, titled WoW TCG Online as if to entice existing MMORPG players). Will this be the next Yu-Gi-Oh!-sized sensation? Not if the depressed CCG market has anything to say about it. Still, the WoW TCG skews to a slightly older demographic, and the once-promised online tie-in cards, if still planned, might help sales as well. We'll see how things shake out as the game's October release approaches.

Upper Deck press release follows:

UDE Announcement: World of Warcraft TCG Website!

The World of Warcraft Trading Card Game Website is Now Online!

Upper Deck Entertainment is pleased to announce that the most anticipated trading card game of all time now has a website! The TCG based on the popular World of Warcraft online game has already cultivated a strong online community, and now is the best time to join in on the excitement!

WoW TCG Online is the source for exclusive information leading up to the game’s release in October. Here are just a few of the things you’ll find on the website:

• Exclusive information from the R&D team that created the game. Lead designer Danny Mandel and lead developer Brian Kibler take you through the stages of designing such an important game with high expectations. As hardcore fans of the online WoW game, Danny and Brian show you how they transitioned the World of Warcraft universe from the online realm to a fun, exciting, and competitive trading card game.
• Exclusive news. WoW TCG Online is your best source for exclusive information on every aspect of the game before it comes out. This includes how to play it, what the cards will look like, what the different card types will be, where to find a game, and news on major events and tournaments. New information is revealed every day, so make sure you check the website daily!
• Art pieces and artist profiles. The WoW TCG features amazing artwork from the top names in the gaming industry. WoW TCG Online reveals a new piece of art every day and features interviews with the game’s artists.
• The Official WoW TCG Forums. Exchange information and opinions as a part of the online community in the official WoW TCG forum. Not only are WoW fans active and speculating on the upcoming game, but UDE employees participate in the discussions! If you have suggestions for the game or you just want to hang out with your fellow gamers, this is the place to make your voice heard.

As we get closer to October and the game’s release, WoW TCG Online will feature more exclusive content—including an online demo—and live coverage of events and tournaments. The WoW TCG is going to rock the gaming world, so visit the official website and get involved from the very beginning!