Fossil Playing Cards by Emmanuel Valtierra

Now on Kickstarter, Fossil Playing Cards is a custom deck celebrating the awe-inspiring world of dinosaurs. Co-designed by historical artist Emmanuel Valtierra, known for his Aztec-style works and collaborations with DC Comics, the deck blends science, history, and art into a collectible experience. 

Inside, the deck features scientifically accurate illustrations by paleontological artist Bruno Salica, each card showcases a different species—from the mighty T. rex to the iconic triceratops—bringing prehistoric life vividly back to the table.

A perfect fusion of paleontology and design, Fossil Playing Cards is a must-have for dinosaur fans, collectors, and lovers of ancient history. 

Printed on high-quality German black core paper with butter varnishing, the deck is set to be produced by WJPC, with stretch goals for LPCC printing and upgraded packaging. Pledge starts at $14 on Kickstarter.

The Exclusive 69 Atlantic Playing Cards by Art of Play

Dan and Dave Buck, founders of Art of Play, established the store as a destination for designer playing cards and one-of-a-kind collectibles. In 2024, they expanded their presence from San Diego to New York with the opening of a new retail location. This space also introduced 69 Atlantic, an intimate venue dedicated to live magic performances.

The 69 Atlantic deck, crafted in a sleek Art Deco style, showcases an elegant back design highlighted with radiant gold foil. Its custom faces draw inspiration from Tannen’s Signature Playing Cards, blending sophistication with a timeless flair.

At the end of last year, Art of Play continued its tradition by releasing a Mystery Deck—featuring a curated selection of rare and limited-edition decks. Among them was the coveted 69 Atlantic Playing Cards. The deck was available online for exactly 69 hours for a limited. Since then, it can only be obtained through Mystery Deck pulls or by visiting the New York venue in person.

With Art of Play’s renowned production quality and a traditional cut, the 69 Atlantic deck quickly earned its status as a collector’s gem—highly exclusive, swiftly sold out, and deeply treasured by enthusiasts.

Printed by WJPC and was available for $18 on Art of Play.

Deck View: Ace Fulton's Casino Vintage Back (Brown Edition) Playing Cards

Vintage. Classic. Iconic.

Fulton's Ace Fulton's Casino Vintage Back – Brown Limited Edition revives the original design of the iconic Ace Fulton’s Casino deck, created in collaboration with Dan & Dave. This deck was released in 2019 and quickly sold out in 13 hours. 

Inspired by the complimentary souvenir decks once offered in old Vegas, it captures the spirit of vintage casino cards from the '60s and '70s with a distinctly modern touch. The deck features the classic Ace Fulton's Casino logo set against a rich brown metallic background, evoking retro charm with premium style. The card faces use the standard Arrco design, a nod to traditional casino decks. Each deck also includes a double-backer with contrasting sides for magic or cardistry.

Housed in a premium letterpress-printed tuck box, this limited release also hides a few subtle “security” features—true to casino tradition—waiting to be discovered.  Printed by USPCC on signature thin stock.

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.

Deck View: SVNGALI 01 Forbidden Playing Card

Snake. Fruit. Stylish

Released in 2019, the Forbidden Deck is the first deck in the SVNGALI series— created by Alex Pandrea and designer Edo Huang. SVNGALI blends high fashion with classic playing card design. 

The black tuck features an elegant red foil-stamped snake, giving the deck a refined, sophisticated edge. Inside, it’s a semi-custom experience with a unique card back, a custom Ace of Spades, redesigned number cards, and vintage-tinged court cards.

Printed by the United States Playing Card Co.

The Beatles Playing Cards Now in Black & White Colorway

Theory11's Beatles Playing Cards return in a new special edition featuring striking Black & White Edition, featuring breathtaking gold foil detailing on every card. 

Inspired by Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, the tuck box boasts multi-level embossing and gold foil accents, creating a visually stunning tribute to The Beatles. The gold foil continues onto the backs of the playing cards, adding an extra layer of sophistication and collectibility.

Each card is fully customized, filled with hidden references and Easter eggs inspired by the band’s legendary discography. From Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds to Eleanor Rigby and Blackbird, every detail pays homage to The Beatles’ timeless music, making this deck a must-have for fans and collectors alike.

This limited-edition release brings a fresh, elegant aesthetic to the classic deck, celebrating one of the most iconic bands in history with a refined, collector-worthy design. 

Available now on Theory11 for $19.95 for the set.

Universal Basketball League (UBL) Playing Cards

The Universal Basketball League (UBL) Playing Cards bring the energy of basketball and the excitement of manga together in a dynamic, collectible deck. Inspired by the UBL manga series, which has been making waves in Hong Kong and online, this deck is a tribute to the fast-paced world of basketball, legendary NBA inspirations, and shōnen storytelling. 

Created by mangaka Beavis Yu, known for his work on Digimon Adventure, each card is meticulously illustrated to capture the spirit of the game and its characters.

These playing cards are produced in collaboration with Room One Cards. Every card tells a part of UBL’s story, centered around T-Bone, a former MVP of the league who returns after a career-halting injury, struggling to reclaim his place alongside rising star Brian and the rest of Team Buffalo. 

As the team faces new rivals like Team Hotwater, the deck’s illustrations showcase the challenges, rivalries, and intense emotions that make UBL a standout manga series.

The UBL Playing Cards are available in two editions:

• Special Edition: Featuring a hot-foiled and embossed tuck box with full-color illustrations of the main characters and their team logos, set against a stylized basketball court. This edition includes 54 fully customized playing cards, each designed to highlight the high-energy moments of UBL. It also features a unique animated flip-book effect on the card backs, bringing the game to life as you shuffle.
• Standard Edition: Showcasing a monochrome manga-style tuck box with striking black-and-white artwork of the main characters and team logos. The playing cards feature dynamic manga panels that capture iconic UBL moments, alongside custom pips inspired by sports jerseys.

From the court cards, which spotlight key players like T-Bone, Brian, and Finn, to the number cards, designed with bold manga-inspired visuals, every element in this deck reflects the world of UBL. Whether you're a collector, basketball fan, or manga enthusiast, these playing cards offer a one-of-a-kind blend of art, sport, and storytelling.

This release coincides with the upcoming "Phantom of the Game" story arc in early 2025, marking the next big chapter in UBL’s journey. In addition to the playing cards, add-on purchases include plushies and a special edition "I’m Back" UBL basketball in black and white.

Pledge starts at $15 on Kickstarter.

Stockholm17's Cyclopeans Cyrconium Playing Cards

Wow.. a cool new deck by Stockholm17! The Cyclopeans is a unique deck forged in the depths of myth and legend. According to the product page on Stockholm17,

The legendary Cyrconium is no ordinary metal—it is the mystical, indestructible alloy crafted by the Cyclopean Alchemists, the divine smiths of the gods. A fusion of Chromium (Cr), Cobalt (Co), and Nickel (Ni), this arcane element embodies the raw power and mastery of an ancient civilization.

Inside, the deck features intricately designed fully custom card backs and face cards, including court cards, Aces and Jokers. 

The beautiful tuck box is adorned with foil detailing and embossing, exuding an aura of divine craftsmanship. A custom, stamp-like paper seal adds an extra touch of authenticity.

Printed by USPCC and Cyclopeans is available on Stockholm17 for $19.

Call Box Playing Cards by Penguin Magic

The Call Box Playing Cards by Penguin Magic are a tribute to exploration, imagination, and the belief in the impossible. Inspired by an iconic blue box that has captured hearts across generations, this deck invites you to shuffle through space and time, uncovering new wonders with every card.

Every card in the deck features fully customized artwork, from the spot cards with unique accent pips and subtle patterns to the whimsically reimagined court cards. Each hand you deal unveils hidden surprises, making every game or performance a new adventure.

Two custom Jokers round out the deck, but that’s not all—each deck includes two bonus gaff cards, a blank facer and a double-backer, perfect for magic tricks and sleight of hand. For card players, they also function as cut cards.

Housed in a deep blue tuck box, the deck features shimmering gold foil accents, while the fully printed interior graphics add a layer of elegance and mystery. Finished with a matte lamination, the box is as durable as it is beautiful.

Crafted with UltraLux Finish and AquaFlow Coating, these cards are made from European casino-grade stock. Pledge starts at $14 on Kickstarter.

Deck View: Watcher Playing Cards

 

Polygon. Earthy. Mysterious. 

Watcher Playing Cards, designed by Adrian Valenzuela and produced by Riffle Shuffle, feature striking low-poly artwork and a mysterious narrative. These fully custom cards showcase vibrant, polygon-based designs with a bold Ace of Spades, earthy one-way court cards, and a mesmerizing back design.

The abstract polygon art reflects the sharp choices we make and the structures we build over time, while the yellow tones symbolize our evolving journey. Inspired by a mythical race of silent guardians, the deck invites you to imagine a world where they observe us—not to judge, but to witness our growth.

Printed by USPCC on Bee Casino Stock.

The Kickstarter-Exclusive Tulip (Grand Purple Edition) Playing Cards

The Grand Purple Tulip Playing Cards is the latest edition in The Dutch House Co.'s Tulip series—a project that began in 2019 with the Light Blue, Dark Blue, and Orange editions. Over the years, new colorways like Black & White/Purple and Pink & White Delft Blue followed, each inspired by the elegance and cultural heritage of the tulip. In 2023, the Grand Tulip introduced a bold new direction with redesigned card backs, updated courts, and a refined tuck case.

Now, the Grand Purple Tulip continues that legacy with a Kickstarter-exclusive release that blends Dutch artistry and modern luxury. Featuring a refreshed back design that emphasizes the card’s center, this deck is both a nod to tradition and a bold step forward in the series’ visual identity. 

The custom court cards and face cards have been recolored to align with the purple theme while keeping familiar motifs intact for a sense of continuity across the collection.

The Jokers pay tribute to iconic Dutch scenery, showcasing the charm of Amsterdam’s canal houses and classic windmills. The tuck case adds another layer of elegance, with a die-cut window offering a sneak peek of the intricate back design inside.

This is a Kickstarter-exclusive production, with decks printed based strictly on backer demand. The minimum print run is 250 decks, but the total number will be determined by the final number of pledges—ensuring exclusivity for supporters. 

Pledge starts at $20 on Kickstarter.