Blizzard’s free-to-play card game has officially been released from it’s beta stage.

After 8 months of closed and open beta stages, Hearthstone: Heroes of Warcraft finally was officially announced to be ‘finished’ on March 11th in the US.

CEO and cofounder of Blizzard Entertainment Mike Morhaime said:

“We saw some reports early on that Hearthstone might destroy the planet. We’re pleased to see that the game has been released and the planet is still here . . . though we apologize for all the lost productivity.”

Praised for the simplicity offered towards new players, but the huge depth available to experienced players, the card game is tonnes of fun and for free, is a steal.

Those of you who’ve been playing the game through its beta stages will be glad to hear of some additions in accordance with the ‘release’. New achievements, unlockable card backs, in-depth season data, some balancing to various cards and some new sound effects and animations. Unfortunately for some, mobile and tablet functionality isn’t here yet, but is in the works.

The news confirms what community manager Christina “Zeriyah” Sims told the forums a week ago, that Hearthstone’s beta was “drawing to the end.”

If you’re interested in giving it a try, find it for free on Blizzard’s website.