New developments have emerged regarding the sudden shutdown announcement of the MetaZoo trading card game. According to various sources that have spoken to MetaZoo Youtuber, Nick Strength and Pokemon, including former employees and partners, MetaZoo may in fact not be shutting down after all.
The prevalent speculation is that MetaZoo is currently in the process of being sold to Bandai, the Japanese entertainment company known for toys and collectibles. As part of this sale agreement, MetaZoo founder Mike Waddell would be removed from the company. This has led to rumors that Waddell’s abrupt shutdown letter posted on Discord, and shown below, was essentially a “temper tantrum” over being forced out.
Shortly after the Discord message, MetaZoo’s social media pages were temporarily deactivated. However, the Instagram page has since been reinstated, adding credibility to the speculation around an ownership change rather than outright closure. Additionally, distribution partner Golden has indicated to customers that they have not received official word of MetaZoo’s closure.
However, while the MetaZoo game may technically continue under new ownership, the community backlash has been intense. Many feel betrayed by Waddell’s apparent willingness to “take the ship down” with him out of spite over his ousting. Even if Bandai retains operations, the damage to public perception may be irreparable. Retailers, players, and former fans have been left grappling with uncertainty over the game’s future for months now.
The bizarre saga has led to questions around the viability of brands in the trading card industry that lack the enduring IP recognition and financial security of a company like Hasbro. It also serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of stable business foundations and community trust.
While the MetaZoo story continues unfolding, it is clear this once promising startup has sabotaged its goodwill and relationships through mismanagement. The coming days will determine whether new leadership can regain consumer confidence or if the MetaZoo ship has ultimately sunk.
