People often ask about the cost of developing a trading card game app. Before the digital age, these popular card games served as a means for social interaction among players. However, with technological advancements, they now serve as a platform for virtual socialization through advanced multiplayer mobile card game development.
Thanks to cutting-edge development frameworks like OpenGL and Cocos2D, developers can now craft card games that truly stand out with outstanding quality and sharp resolution. However, development costs for card game apps are a key factor that most developers overlook.
This blog will discuss the cost of card game development, including average costs and factors affecting the overall cost.
Knowing the cost of a card development is essential before you invest your hard-earned money in the initiative. This will help you prepare a blueprint that can help you manage your expenses in the development process. Let’s know the key takeaways of this blog before diving into the subject.
We will start by understanding the mobile card development market
The key factors that affect the cost will be discussed thoroughly
Then we will shed light on the stages of card game development
The card game cost will be discussed along with the future of the domain
Lastly, we will understand why choosing the right partner is essential
Overview of Mobile Card Game Development
Card games are enjoyable skill-based games where players can use their brains to bluff and plan their moves carefully, aiming to create the best hand and have fun competing against others. Winning a mobile card game demands skill and strategy. With the growth of mobile gaming, card game apps have become extremely popular. The revenue share of the top global card games segment was valued at $8.58 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach $11.57 billion by 2030.
Mobile card games are becoming more popular than ever, leading many gaming investors to ask about the cost of creating a top-tier card game app for Android. Let’s explore the details and find out.
Key Factors Influencing the Cost of a Card Game App
We shall list all the factors that affect the cost of the best card games. These are some of the major factors affecting the overall cost of card game app development.
1. The Location of the Developers
The developers’ region influences the overall cost of building a card game app. Some countries offer affordable development services, while others provide premium but expensive options. Therefore, it depends on your budget and investment ability for the project.
The cost of hiring a game developer also varies by region, making location one of the biggest factors influencing overall expenses.
Indian card game developers charge around $15 to $20 per hour.
UK developers charge around $35 to $40 per hour.
Developers in the USA charge around $50 to $70 per hour.
2. The Complexity of Features and Games
The cost of creating a card game can vary, depending on how complex the features are and the overall scope of the project. Based on complexity, card games are broadly classified into three categories:
Simple 2D Games
Mid-level Games
High-level Games
Simple 2D games don’t require many resources and expertise, and cost around $10k to $15k. They can be developed with minimal design and features.Conversely, mid-level games cover other features like the storyline, characters, levels, and attractive visuals, and cost around $17k to $20k.
Lastly, high-level games reflect complex designs, detailing, and graphics that are hard to find. Developers must have 1-2 years of experience developing high-level online card games. On average, the cost of such games ranges from $25k to $30k.
3. Game Design
Card game development costs depend on UI/UX. A basic app will have significantly lower design costs. However, adding an attractive, detailed, and visually realistic interface to your card game app will increase the cost, depending on the level of customization.
4. Multiple Payment Gateways
If you’re creating real money card games, it’s really important to include secure payment systems to keep everything safe and trustworthy. If you want to integrate multiple payment gateways, the card game development cost will be higher than that of fewer payment methods.
5. Post-Launch Support
In addition to payment methods, marketing also significantly influences the overall cost. You can invest in paid digital marketing campaigns and advertisements to boost your game’s reach. This ultimately affects the budget and increases the overall cost of card game development.
6. Cross-Platform Compatibility
The cost varies depending on the platform, like Android, iOS, or Windows. Android app development is much cheaper than iOS-based apps. However, if you want to develop for either of the platforms, it will cost less than a cross-platform compatible card game app.
7. Technology Stack
The cost will be less if the developers use free tools rather than paid ones. Some of the significant tools and software are listed below.
Game Engines: Unity, Unreal Engine
Frontend: React Native, Flutter
Backend: Node.js, Python
Database: MySQL, MongoDB
Stages of Card Game App Development
The card game app development process goes through a lot of stages. The total cost of the app is segregated into these steps.
1. Planning and Research
Thorough market research is essential to understanding your target audience. This research allows you to create a development roadmap tailored to a specific audience. Draw an outline and define timelines, goals, and other plans for the development process.
2. Design
Design comes next, where you determine the app’s theme and design. This step ensures a good UI and UX by developing prototypes and wireframes, making sure the interface is intuitive and visually appealing.
3. Development
A key stage in creating a card game app is developing its frontend and backend, requiring the selection of the best technology stack. Selecting an improved tech stack ensures your app is free of bugs and operates efficiently. This phase includes integrating APIs, payment gateways, and multiplayer features.
4. Testing
This stage involves thorough testing of the game. During testing, testers identify loopholes or shortcomings in the gameplay, and the coding team fixes the bugs. The game’s performance is also evaluated across different platforms to ensure proper optimization on all screen sizes and device specifications.
5. Deployment
The final phase is publishing the game on the Google Play Store, the App Store, or both, depending on the cross-platform compatibility feature. You also need to verify compliance and ensure that the platform policies align with the game.
What is the Card Game Development Cost?
Determining the exact development cost is difficult because your project’s details, features, and specifications vary, and the cost depends on these variables. Additionally, there are many different card game variations in the market, each with unique features and details. As a result, the cost of each card game app will differ accordingly.
Card game development typically costs $10k to $30k for a single platform and basic features, but expensive features can raise costs to $50k or more.
Take a look at the table below showcasing the cost of various phases of the card game development:
Development Process
Cost
UX/UI Design
$2,000-$4,000
Native Platform Development
$6,000-$8,000
Backend Development
$4,000-$6,000
Admin Panel for Web Development
$2,500
Testing & Q/A
$3,000-$4,000
Project Management
$2,500-3000
Final Cost
$20,000-$25,000
Latest Trends in Card Game Development in 2025
To create an amazing game, it’s really important to keep up with the latest trends. Here are some of the key trends that are shaping the development of card game apps in 2025.
1. Blockchain Integration
Card games now come with blockchain technology, bringing a whole new level of security and a fresh way to enjoy playing. With the ability to make transactions using your crypto wallets, more players are discovering and joining this exciting scene. It’s a wonderful step forward that makes the experience more safe and fun for everyone.
2. AR and VR Technologies
Augmented reality and virtual reality have really transformed the industry, making it even more exciting and profitable. With AR and VR, you can effortlessly blend the physical and virtual worlds. These amazing technologies ensure you get the most immersive experience, giving you a true-to-life feel of the game.
3. AI-Powered Features
Artificial intelligence is one of the exciting new trends in card game development. It enables developers to create NPCs that feel more human, adjusting their skill levels to match the player’s abilities and making the game experience even more engaging and fun.
4. Social Gaming
Card games today are wonderful for bringing people together. You can even share live streams of your opponents using video features, in addition to the usual in-game chat. Leaderboards, social sharing, and exciting ways to engage players are all popular features that make modern card games more fun and social.
5. Cloud Gaming
Cloud gaming is an exciting new way to enjoy your favorite games without the hassle of downloading them. Your data is stored on a server, allowing you to access and play anytime you wish, all online. With a reliable internet connection, you’re all set to dive into your favorite card games without worrying about space on your phone. It’s a convenient and fun way to play games that fit seamlessly into your lifestyle.
Choosing the Right Development Partner
BR Softech is a prominent card game development company with over a decade of experience in creating trading card game applications and custom card games. The company has a proven track record of successful projects and is a trusted partner for designing innovative and secure gaming solutions.
Expertise in card game development.
Use of the latest technology.
Transparent pricing and a proven track record.
If you’re searching for the top firm, consider BR Softech, a leading game development company. The studio focuses on developing card games and uses advanced technologies to create them. The company has a portfolio of successful projects and is a trusted partner for building innovative and secure gaming apps.
Final Words
The cost of creating a card game app in 2025 depends on factors like complexity, technology, and support. Investing in a reliable developer ensures a smooth process and a quality product. As a leading card game development company, BR Softech is here to help you access top-quality mobile game development services that are both affordable and convenient. We’re dedicated to bringing your ideas to life with warmth and professionalism. With over 10 years of experience in the gaming industry, we can help you elevate your card game business.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
Q1. How much does it cost to build a simple 2D card game app in 2025?
Ans. To make a simple 2D card game app in 2025, research the market, add a basic UI/UX design, find a developer and testing team, deploy the game, and check for regular updates and maintenance. This will cost you between 10 thousand and 15 thousand US dollars.
Q2. What is the cost of a high-end card game app with advanced features?
Ans. Developing a high-end game packed with complex features will cost significantly more than simple 2D and mid-level card games. These games feature multiplayer options, a live chat feature, and cross-platform compatibility, which costs a businessman between 25 and 30 thousand US dollars.
Q3. Does the cost of card game app development differ by region?
Ans. Yes, the cost of card game app development differs from region to region. Development studios in India, Vietnam, and the Philippines will charge significantly less than teams operating in the US, UK, or Australia because of the high cost of living in these countries.
Q4. What additional costs should I consider apart from development?
Ans. Apart from development, your cost might go into marketing, post-launch support, rolling out updates, and building an online community.
Q5. How long does it take to develop a card game app in 2025?
Ans. Just like the cost, the development time of card games also depends on the game’s complexity. Basic apps with simple features can take up to 3 months to develop. However, advanced apps take more than 6 months and go up to 1 year with all the development and deployment processes.
Nitin Garg is a seasoned tech entrepreneur and the visionary founder of BR Softech, a globally recognized leader in game development. With over 13 years of industry experience, he has been instrumental in transforming BR Softech into a powerhouse of innovation, offering cutting-edge solutions in Video Games, Blockchain Games, NFT Game Development, and card games like Poker, Rummy, and Teen Patti.
Nitin’s deep expertise in emerging technologies, combined with a sharp business acumen, has helped position BR Softech as a trusted name in the international gaming arena. Under his leadership, BR Softech has built a global clientele of 3,000+ satisfied customers and scaled a dedicated in-house team of 180+ skilled professionals.
