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Image via Valve

Artifact Classic vs Artifact Foundry – Differences & How To Play

How are Artifact Classic and Artifact Foundry different, and how can you play them now?

Artifact is a card game based on the MOBA, Dota 2, that gives heroes new forms and allows you to test your deck against other players. There are two versions of the game: Classic and Foundry. So, Artifact Classic vs Artifact Foundry, what are the differences and how can you play either one?

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How to Play and What’s the Difference Between Artifact Classic and Foundry

There are a lot of similarities between these two games. Essentially, Classic is the original version of Artifact. Then, Foundry is the version meant to address the complaints that players had about the base game. Although they have the same style of gameplay, there are a few key differences that set them apart.

Artifact Classic has the lanes played in a sequence. However, the Foundry removed that limitation and removed the capacity cap for units in lanes. Additionally, Foundry changed the RNG system so that you have more control over your gameplay aside from the shuffled deck, which still includes an amount of RNG. Overall, Foundry was meant to address the complaints of Classic, but instead of polishing the base game, many players felt that it made the end product too easy.

However, players’ opinions are rather split on which version is better. Hardcore players liked learning to manipulate the RNG of Classic. But for new players, Foundry was easier to learn, and it had a single-player mode. Unfortunately, neither version was given the updates that they needed to thrive, and Valve stopped development for both.

Can You Still Play Artifact?

You can play both versions of Artifact on Steam for free. You’ll find the reviews are mixed for it. While some include criticism of one or both game versions, many of them lament the fact that this game is now dead. So, if you plan to try it out, keep in mind that you might not find other players to play against, and any issues you come across won’t be patched.

That covers the main differences between Artifact Classic and Artifact Foundry, as well as how to play them. It’s always unfortunate when a game with potential is abandoned. But if you’re looking for a different card game, check out our Balatro guide hub for a dangerously addicting option.


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Author
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Melissa Sarnowski
Contributing Writer
Melissa Sarnowski has been working as a gaming writer professionally for two years, having been at GameSkinny for over a year now as a horror beat writer. She has an English degree from University of Wisconsin - Madison. While she focuses on all things horror, she also enjoys cozy games, MMOs like FFXIV and WoW, and any and everything in between.