Qing Tong Playing Cards on Kickstarter

Qing Tong Playing Cards is an exquisite celebration of ancient Chinese bronze ware culture, reimagined through a luxurious set of playing cards seeking funds on Kickstarter. Designed by Gamipockie, this project transforms over 1,600 years of history, artistry, and symbolism into a stunningly crafted modern masterpiece.

Drawing inspiration from the Qing Tong (青铜) heritage that flourished in China’s Yellow River Basin from the 21st to the 5th century BC, the cards pay homage to a time when bronze was more than metal—it was a language of power, belief, and identity.

Each deck in the collection captures the elegance and mystique of this era. From the fierce, mythic Taotie motif in the Ri Ji Gong card, to the poised bird-shaped vessel from the Western Zhou dynasty, to the dramatic Four-Goat Square Zun with its thunder-patterned horns and ornate faces—these designs are more than visual; they’re narrative. They carry the stories of ancient rituals, royal symbolism, and masterful craftsmanship passed down through generations.

The set includes four beautifully designed decks, each with its own rich color scheme and refined design approach. Classical Chinese patterns and stylized animal motifs such as phoenixes, lions, birds, and leopards infuse the artwork with authenticity and charm. These cards are not only functional for play but collectible objects, designed for display, admiration, and conversation.

Housed in a richly adorned collector’s box, the presentation itself is a work of art. Every detail, from the dual-layer foil dragon accents to the traditional Chinese window patterns and precision drawer-style packaging, reflects the reverence of the culture it honors. 

Pledge starts at $22 on Kickstarter.

Just Launched! Golden Eagle No. 7 Vintage Playing Cards

Just launched on Kickstarter, the latest deck from A Haines Playing Cards- Golden Eagle No. 7 Vintage Playing Cards. This beautifully crafted deck is illustrated entirely by hand, and shares the same vintage DNA as the Osprey & Goshawk decks which were successfully funded on Kickstarter in 2024, featuring a new deep British Racing Green colourway and all new artwork on the gold foiled tuck, Ace of Spades & Jokers. 

This deck is inspired by A Haines Playing Card's love of British Birds of Prey, combined with their love of classic decks of playing cards. 

The deck features Standard & Gilded Editions, and each deck is finished with an individually numbered sticker seal. 

The first 100 decks come in a special Collectors Set, signed on the back by the artist, and housed in a custom AHPC X1 Carat Case by Carat Case Creations. A collectable coin will also be available. 

Printed by Legends on their pre-crushed stock and Classic Finish, for superb all-around handling, shuffling and snap. Pledge starts at $18 on Kickstarter.

Kardify Magazine Issue 95 Now on Patreon

We just dropped Kardify Magazine Issue 95 on Patreon! Patrons who pledged $3 or more will be able to download the latest issue from our Patreon page. This issue compiles selected articles published from mid-March to mid-April. Deck images, articles, and news to keep you informed and up-to-date with the latest playing card news, releases, and previews. If you love playing cards, you will love Kardify Magazine!

Also, don’t forget to check out our other cool reward tiers on Patreon! The tiers include monthly desktop and smartphone wallpapers, a mystery deck shipped to you every 4 months of ongoing contributions, social media shout-outs, and multiple sponsorship tiers! Check it out!

Funds received from the magazine will help us keep the site running and growing, and bring new quality content to you. Our aim is to support designers by backing crowdfunded projects and supporting magic and playing cards retailers with their new releases. If you want to support us, please head over to our Patreon page. If you have an idea for an article you would like us to pursue, do get in contact with us. We hope you enjoy the read. In this issue:   

+ Jack the Ripper & Sherlock Holmes: Anti-Faro’s latest release is an immersive puzzle game where players must analyze hidden clues, follow trails, and uncover the truth. Find out more!

+ Phenex Reborn: This Heat-Sensitive deck by Charmie bring the legend of the Phoenix to life, capturing its essence of rebirth, resilience, and immortality.

+ Obsession: From Thirdway Industries, this series is an artistic exploration of desire, dreams, and the fine line between fantasy and nightmare. 

+ Sushi: Designed by June Muhlada and produced by Kings Wild Project, this decks offer a stunning fusion of tradition and modern artistry. Check it out!

+ 1st Feather Deck: Take a look at Chris Ramsay's latest release, 1st Playing Cards Feather Deck, a new addition to the series that embodies elegance and sophistication.

+ Mailchip Summer Edition: Released 10 years ago, Theory11's MailChimp Summer Edition Playing Cards are an ultra-rare collector’s item, with only 100 decks released to the public. This deck is a true gem for enthusiasts. Find out more!

+ How to play Spoons: Spoons is a card game that can be played by two or more players. It is a fast-paced and exciting game that is perfect for a fun and energetic game night with friends or family.

… and more! 50 pages of articles and deck images. Enjoy!

Check Out the Mesmerising Tanuki Yukaku Playing Cards

Tanuki Yukaku Playing Cards invites you into a mesmerizing world of charm, illusion, and tradition, brought to life through the lens of a mischievous tanuki courtesan. Following the acclaimed Hyakki Yagyō Playing Cards, the team at Bloom Playing Cards returns with this rich and imaginative new deck—marking the first in Season 2 of Room One’s Collection System.

Inspired by the whimsical tales of Japanese folklore, this project blends the fantastical nature of the shape-shifting tanuki with the opulent world of the Yūkaku—pleasure districts from Japan’s Edo period. The result is a lush, visual narrative that transforms each playing card into a piece of storytelling. 

Each deck is crafted with attention to detail and layered meaning. From the cold foil enhancements to hidden puzzles across the number cards, every element adds depth to the experience. The Yukaku Tales Edition forms a panoramic scene of lively tanuki characters. The Oiran-Dochu Edition mimics a traditional makimono scroll when arranged by suit. The Hanafuda Edition offers a 4-in-1 puzzle and even includes the traditional game Koi-Koi, complete with a guide for newcomers.

The Court Cards portray a cast of captivating characters—each a unique tanuki courtesan, filled with personality and styled with folkloric flair. The card backs in each edition are individually designed to reflect the mood and story of their respective themes, while pattern gilded edges give the decks a radiant finishing touch.

The tuck boxes are a showstopper, particularly the Light Up Yukaku Box, which features a window that reveals a glowing ryotei, blooming ume trees, and intricate craftsmanship. The Ume Matsuri Box further embodies Japanese elegance, opening from both sides like sliding doors at a spring festival.

Also, the Kickstarter campaign features a beautifully collector’s coin, inspired by historical Japanese currency—Koban and Oban—adding an extra layer of cultural authenticity and visual appeal. 

Pledge starts at $13 on Kickstarter.