ARK Unveils Athena Playing Cards Inspired by Greek Mythology

ARK Playing Cards has released on Kickstarter, Athena Playing Cards. This fully custom deck celebrates the Greek goddess of wisdom, warfare, and craftsmanship through elaborate neoclassical artwork and an innovative collector-focused design.

Inspired by the Aegis shield, the deck features fully custom illustrations of Athena alongside the Twelve Olympian gods, with each court card depicting a different deity. The artwork combines the sculptural look of ancient Greek statues with ornate Art Nouveau-inspired details.

One of the deck's standout features is its Pop-up Plus tuck case, which unfolds into a full 360-degree circular display resembling Athena's legendary shield. The intricate packaging tells key stories from Greek mythology, including the Acropolis, Medusa, and the Trojan Horse.

The cards showcase ARK's exclusive Radiant HOLO printing process, creating shimmering holographic effects that highlight armor, shields, halos, and decorative elements while maintaining a smooth handling feel. The symmetrical card backs center around the Aegis shield, flanked by Athena's owl, serpents, olive branches, and classical architectural motifs.

The campaign offers several collector editions, including a standard holographic deck, an Artist Box Set with gilded edges, an integrated art book and sketch deck, a Wood Box Edition featuring a solid sapele display case and collectible coin, and an ultra-limited All-In exclusive with matte black-edged cards and an embossed metal plate.

Combining ambitious structural packaging with lavish artwork and premium finishes, Athena Playing Cards continues ARK's series of mythology-inspired collectible decks following Apollo and Artemis.

Pledge starts at $30 on Kickstarter.

LiaoZhai Playing Cards by ARK

LiaoZhai Playing Cards by ARK is an art-driven collection inspired by Strange Tales from a Chinese Studio, the legendary supernatural anthology written by Pu Songling. Drawing from centuries-old Eastern folklore, the project transforms classic tales of spirits, fox demons, and human desire into an immersive collector’s experience that combines storytelling, luxury craftsmanship, and theatrical presentation.

Continuing ARK’s exploration of Eastern fantasy aesthetics following its ShanHai series, the deck uses traditional Chinese splash-ink painting techniques to create an ethereal atmosphere filled with flowing brushwork, softened forms, and dreamlike transitions between the mortal and supernatural worlds.Every illustration is designed to feel as though it has emerged directly from an ancient scroll, blending haunting elegance with contemporary collectible design.

The centerpiece of the project is ARK’s highly elaborate packaging system. Housed within a snake-bone-inspired slipcase featuring embossing and gold foil accents, the tuck case unfolds into a rotating cross-shaped three-dimensional theatre inspired by pop-up carousel books. As the structure rotates, four iconic Liaozhai stories gradually reveal themselves as miniature stage scenes, allowing the deck to function as both a playable object and an interactive display piece. 

The card backs continue this narrative approach through animated panoramic artwork that shifts from elegant Suzhou-style gardens into eerie supernatural landscapes when fanned. Each suit is tied to one of four classic Liaozhai tales. 

The custom courts features Chinese narrative characters symbolising “Beginning,” “Progression,” and “Ending,” turning every suit into a miniature visual story arc. The Jokers further reinforce the deck’s central themes by representing the coexistence of the mortal and underworld realms through contrasting yin-and-yang imagery.

Multiple collector editions expand the experience further, including holographic gilded versions, monochrome manuscript-inspired editions, large-format artist boxsets, and an elaborate wooden collector’s display box that transforms into a rotating theatre stand for the fully unfolded tuck structure. Across every edition, ARK maintains its focus on premium materials, intricate engineering, and highly tactile production techniques.

Pledge starts at $30 on Kickstarter.

Final Days on Kickstarter: Portal Playing Cards

Portal Playing Cards marks ARK’s first exploration of uniquely shaped decks. The deck features arch-shaped cards inspired by ancient architecture and sacred geometry. The moment the tuck is turned, the mechanisms of a forgotten ruin appear to awaken, as if ancient totems and dormant powers are stirring back to life. With a whispered incantation, the portal opens... and a new realm unfolds.

Like previous ARK releases, Portal is crafted with exceptional attention to detail. The deck showcases hand-illustrated artwork influenced by Renaissance woodcut engraving. Every line is meticulously drawn using dip pen techniques, preserving the subtle imperfections and tactile authenticity of traditional craftsmanship. The result is a richly textured visual experience that feels both historic and fantastical, as though lifted from the pages of an illuminated medieval tome.

The custom three-dimensional arched tuck box recreates the presence of an ancient ruin in both sealed and unfolded forms. In its closed state, the outer and inner layers reveal shifting portal imagery on the front and back. Insert a Joker to depict the moment a mage opens the gateway, or display any card within the structure to create your own scene. 

When fully unfolded, the tuck transforms into a layered archway passage with dramatic depth and spatial progression, becoming a sculptural display piece in its own right. Holographic foil accents shimmer across the totemic patterns, reminiscent of stained glass windows in a grand cathedral, maintaining clarity and brilliance from every angle.

At the heart of the design lies a magic circle formed from the infinity symbol, representing boundless arcane power. An hourglass embedded within the gate symbolizes the flow and reconstruction of time, while dragon totems stand guard above and below, sustaining the portal’s energy each time it opens. 

The deck’s narrative spans four distinct realms, each aligned with a suit: Spades- Dragon Riders, suspended between cliffs and cloud seas where wind and fire converge. Hearts- Celestial Realm, Clubs inhabit the Elven Forest, and Diamonds- Dwarven Kingdom. Each suit’s flying companion becomes its emblem, carrying travelers across these vivid landscapes.

Pledge starts at $30 on Kickstarter.

Horror Night Playing Cards by ARK

Drawing inspiration from urban legends, myths, and classic horror icons, ARK's Horror Night Playing Cards brings monsters to life with neo-classical gothic illustrations and richly detailed, hand-drawn artwork. The deck comes with stunning holo foil and a warm orange glow that evokes an eerie, lurking presence.

Inside, the deck features a dual-layer box design, with a sliding jack-o’-lantern tuck case and altar-like outer box that reveal hidden artwork when manipulated, creating an interactive experience. 

The card backs are symbolic, with minotaur skulls, axes, runic crosses, and other artifacts forming a subtle, mysterious map.

Court cards represent twelve classic Western monsters in cages, blending horror and elegance, while the intricately designed faces capture the essence of each creature.

During the Kickstarter campaign. Horror Night is available in multiple limited editions. The HOLO Deck is limited to 3,333 copies while the the Artist Boxset is limited to 999 copies, includes the HOLO Deck, special decks, an artbook, and a dual-display box with gilded edges. 

The Wooden Boxset, limited to 333 copies, adds a gilded edge deck, a commemorative coin, and a lacquered display box with three modes for display. The Black Edge Edition, limited to 99 copies, features a full manuscript-style black deck with an embossed metal plate.

Pledge starts at $28 on Kickstarter.

Artemis Playing Cards by ARK

ARK Playing Cards returns with Artemis, a stunning tribute to the Greek goddess of the moon and the hunt. With its signature fusion of opulent Baroque aesthetics and cutting-edge design.

At its heart is the moon goddess herself, depicted with grace and fierce elegance. Hand-drawn and digitally refined, Artemis appears in radiant chiffon robes, her bow poised and her golden-horned deer standing at her side.

Each court card introduces one of the twelve Olympian gods, all illustrated with lavish detail and reverence for Greek myth.

The deck’s visual centerpiece is the Moon HOLO finish—a luminous circular halo that shifts under light, creating a mystical, moonlit shimmer on every card. 

The tuck box unfolds into a 360° moon-shaped display, continuing ARK’s inventive structural approach first seen in their Apollo deck. This time, the full-moon format symbolizes Artemis’ domain and the lunar cycle itself.

Beyond the cards, the collection includes several exclusive tiers:

• Standard Decks (limited to 3,333): Featuring green and yellow palettes with subtle moon embossing and a retail price of $40 (Kickstarter pledge: $29.9).

• HOLO Deck Sets (limited to 999): Includes the HOLO deck, a special deck, and a bilingual art book in a gift box (Kickstarter pledge: $75).

• Collector’s Set (limited to 333): Comes with gilded cards, a silver coin, and a custom white beech wood display box (Kickstarter pledge: $185).

• ALL-IN Black Edition (limited to 99): A fully blacked-out deck with black edges and a numbered embossed metal plate, made exclusively for the most devoted collectors.

Every element is intentional—from the skull-and-cypress temple card backs to the secret treasure-map symbolism within the illustrations. ARK’s Artemis isn’t just about playing cards; it’s a divine story told in foil, paper, and mythological reverence.

Only on Kickstarter, this limited run invites you to bring a piece of Olympus to your collection.

ShanHai V2 Playing Cards on Kickstarter

ShanHai V2 Playing Cards by ARK continue the journey into the mythical world of the Shan Hai Jing, unveiling exquisite Chinese ink illustrations and unique designed Folding Screen case. Inspired by ancient Chinese legends, this sequel enhances the artistry, interactivity, and collector’s appeal of the original series.

Following overwhelming support for the original ShanHai, which achieved 1654% of its crowdfunding goal with 786 backers, this edition brings even more mythical creatures to life. The deck features beings like Bo, a horse with tiger claws and a drum-like scream, and Bi Fang, a fiery one-legged bird representing volcanic eruptions. The background highlights the Kunlun Mountains, depicted with expressive brushwork and negative space, evoking mystical grandeur.

Over 100 meticulously hand-drawn manuscripts ensure that every brushstroke reflects traditional artistry. The double-layered case is adorned with classic Chinese motifs such as copper coins for wealth, stone lions for protection, and the legendary Kunlun Mirror, which, according to myth, can foretell the future. Inside, the deck unfolds like a traditional Chinese screen, revealing Lord Dong Wang and the Four Divine Beasts.

The card backs feature a dynamic serial illustration design, displaying three different visual effects when flicked, spread, or held still. A new divine figure and four legendary beasts are introduced, depicted in traditional Chinese ink painting style, capturing the beauty of oriental aesthetics.

The Tai Chi-inspired formation on the card backs creates a Flash animation effect when the deck is rapidly dialed. When fully spread, all 54 cards form a majestic scroll, seamlessly aligning with the ARK CASE to reveal a complete image. 

The Kunlun Mountain Range, spanning 400 km, serves as the setting for legendary creatures such as Black Bear (Lord Dong Wang’s mount), Taotie (the insatiable glutton), Ming Snake (a drought-bringing winged serpent), and the White Tiger (guardian of the West).

Several limited-edition releases include exclusive enhancements. The Standard Edition (Limited to 3,333) features exquisite ink illustrations and the signature ARK CASE. The HOLO Edition (Limited to 999) includes a HOLO deck, special edition deck, and a gift box with a folding album, with gold-stamped surfaces and dazzling foil effects.

The Collector’s Rosewood Box (Limited to 333) contains a gilded-edge deck, collectible coin, and a handcrafted rosewood display box with four different display modes. The Black Edge Signed Edition (Limited to 99) includes black-edged playing cards and an embossed metal plate, revealing hidden monster illustrations under blacklight.

Pledge starts at $40 on Kickstarter.

ARK's Atlantis Playing Cards

Funding now on Kickstarter, Explore the legendary underwater world of Atlantis with ARK’s latest masterpiece, Atlantis Playing Cards. ARK's latest deck combines innovative craftsmanship with the mystery and allure of the fabled lost city, immersing collectors and enthusiasts in a realm of creativity and storytelling.

At the heart of this creation lies the groundbreaking accordion creative structure, designed to evoke a powerful sense of depth and three-dimensionality. The eye-catching tuck case, resembling the grand gates of Poseidon’s palace, unfolds to reveal an intricate and immersive scene.

As the case expands, it transforms into a stunning display of Atlantis’ architectural beauty, inspired by the domed structures of ancient Greece and Rome. The symmetrical layout creates a vivid sense of space, allowing the grandeur of the underwater palace to unfold before your eyes.

Within, each illustration is painstakingly hand-drawn with millimeter-level detail, utilizing traditional woodcut techniques to evoke the craftsmanship of Atlantis’ mythical artisans. This blend of ancient aesthetics and modern design gives the cards a distinctive style, rich with texture and history.

The deck incorporates the innovative Wave HOLO foil technology, which brings the designs to life with shimmering, holographic elements. The delicate textures of water ripple across the cards, mimicking the dynamic beauty of the ocean. This interplay of light and motion transforms the deck into a dazzling representation of the legendary underwater city.

The custom court cards are a work of art in themselves, representing four distinct Atlantean races. Religious leaders exude mystery and solemnity, while noble kings, queens, and knights embody elegance and refinement. Military commanders stand as symbols of strength and resilience, while tribal clans bring vitality and primal energy to the design. Together, these figures form a continuous scroll-like fresco, much like the endless corridors of Poseidon’s palace.

The card backs feature the “Eye of Atlantis,” a sacred symbol that peers through time and space. Waterfalls, majestic architecture, and mythical guardians further enhance the sense of wonder, creating a deck that feels both ancient and otherworldly.

The collection offers several limited-edition tiers, each crafted to delight collectors and enthusiasts. The standard edition features the signature Accordion case and Wave HOLO foil, offering a lighter yet captivating experience. For those seeking more, the gift box set includes a HOLO deck, a special edition deck, and a beautifully designed box that mirrors Atlantis rising from the ocean.

The walnut display set adds gilded-edge cards, a collectible coin, and a luxurious box with multiple configurations for display. Finally, the ultra-exclusive black edition features black-edged cards and an embossed metal plate, both meticulously numbered for the discerning collector.

From the shimmering holographic designs to the intricate hand-drawn artwork, Atlantis Playing Cards is a testament to ARK’s dedication to creativity and craftsmanship. This deck isn’t just a tribute to the legend of Atlantis—it’s an invitation to explore its mysteries, one card at a time.

Pledge starts at $30 on Kickstarter.

Check Out ZHI YUAN (KITE) Playing Cards by ARK

ARK's ZHI YUAN (KITE) Playing Cards blends tradition with modern sophistication, drawing inspiration from the ancient Chinese art of kite making. ARK, known for exploring diverse cultural themes, brings this new creation to life with innovative design and a deep connection to Chinese heritage. 

The deck features a unique, foldable tuck case that mimics the classic silhouette of a swallow kite. Closed, it serves as a standard card box; when opened, it transforms into a beautiful display, complete with a built-in stand.

Inside, the cards are intricately designed, weaving traditional motifs with modern aesthetics. The card backs combines bamboo strips with classic Chinese patterns, featuring symbols of prosperity like koi fish and swallows. 

For the faces cards, each suit is thoughtfully represented: Spades for fortune, Hearts for happiness, Clubs for abundance, and Diamonds for beauty. Court cards depict figures engaged in the art of kite crafting, enhancing the deck’s cultural connection.

Several limited editions are on offer during the Kickstarter campaign: a standard deck with exquisite artwork, an Artist Boxset with HOLO cards and a special art book, a Walnut Boxset with gilded-edge cards and a display frame, and a Black Edge Special Deck exclusive to the ALL-IN tier. 

Pledge starts at $35 on Kickstarter. Don't miss out!