Konami has added multiple new mechanics to the Yu-Gi-Oh! Card game over the years to keep it fresh, to varying degrees of acclaim. And now, for better or worse, Link Summoning will be introduced to Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel Links. On top of this, players will be able to experience the universe of the Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS series.

The introduction of Link Summoning will inevitably alter the way the game is played, not least with the introduction of the mandatory EX Monster Zones being added to the field. Link Summoning is one of the few special summon methods that do not rely on monster levels to summon, instead using a unique Link Rating system.

To Link Summon, the requisite number of face-up link materials must be used that correspond with the criteria stated on the link monster. For example, Link Spider has a rating of 1 and only requires 1 Normal Monster sacrifice to summon, whereas Encode Talker has a rating of 3 and requires Cyberse monsters as materials. This new mechanic will require a lot of decks restructures for players, however, will result in countless new powerful strategies.

Fans of the VRAINS series will be able to rejoice as the series comes to Duel Links in all its virtual reality glory. As well as bringing all-new missions and cards to the game, players will also be able to step into the shoes of VRAINS protagonist Yusaku Fujiki, aka Playmaker, and battle enemies with his iconic Cyberse deck.

To celebrate the release of the new VRAINSWorld, Konami is offering a bevvy of log-in bonuses to collect, chief among which is a prismatic Link Monster Code talker. Also included are 2 UR Tickets, 1000 Gems, 1 Character Unlock Ticket, and a new card sleeve and game mat influenced by VRAINS.

Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel Links is available to download free from the App Store and Google Play, with the Link Summoning system and VRAINSWorld coming on September 28th.