Theory11's Avatar Playing Cards

Theory11's Avatar Playing Cards invite you into the bioluminescent world of Pandora, transforming James Cameron’s epic universe into a fully illustrated deck designed to be experienced in the hand. Every card is richly detailed, blending fantasy and realism through vibrant color and Na’vi iconography that echo the forests, oceans, and glowing horizons of the films.

Inside, familiar characters like Jake Sully, Neytiri, Kiri, Lo’ak, Spider, Tonowari, and Ronal appear alongside iconic creatures and environments, creating a cohesive visual journey across the entire deck. Like all Theory11's licensed decks, subtle film references, and hidden easter eggs are waiting to be discovered. 

The tuck box sets the tone with pearlescent blue and silver foils and deep embossing, capturing the otherworldly textures of Pandora before the deck is even opened. 

Designed to balance play and display, Avatar Playing Cards offer smooth handling for game night while rewarding collectors with layered artwork, subtle film references, and hidden easter eggs waiting to be discovered. 

Available for $12.95 on theory11.

Dan and Dave's Case Study Playing Cards Version 7 Released

Dan and Dave have released Version 7 of their fascinating Case Study playing cards series, continuing the evolution of this long-running exploration of playable art. The new edition features a mirrored card back built around the iconic Dan and Dave logo, presented in a striking red, white, and black colorway that emphasizes symmetry, contrast, and motion.

The Case Study series is an experimental exhibition of design refined through decades of study and practice. Drawing inspiration from cardistry, architecture, philosophy, cinema, and Japanese aesthetics, the twins work within the traditional framework of playing cards while continually pushing its boundaries.

With Version 7, Case Study continues to serve as a visual archive of ideas, offering both a snapshot of the brand’s design philosophy and a foundation for future creative exploration.

Available for $20 on Dan and Dave store.

New Year 52 Playing Cards by Smooth Writing

Now on Kickstarter, New Year 52 Playing Cards by Lunzi & TCC transform the the Lunar New Year into a collectible experience built around one powerful idea: the door. In Chinese tradition, the door is where blessings arrive... and New Year 52 uses it as both a visual motif and a functional design element.

Inside the deck, storytelling unfolds across the cards. Firecrackers evolve through the number cards, shifting from full strings to drifting smoke as values increase, while koi fish and gold ingots carved into the door motifs symbolize smooth journeys and prosperity. 

Court cards replace spoken greetings with visual exchanges of couplets, quietly expressing New Year blessings. 

The deck’s standout feature is its magnetic tuck box, which includes removable New Year couplets that can be arranged directly on the box, inviting hands-on participation in the ritual of welcoming good fortune. 

A magnetic “Fu (福)” character can be placed upright or upside down, symbolizing happiness arriving when inverted—a familiar cultural gesture turned tactile and playful. The tuck is finished with embossing and paired with Spring Festival–themed, hand-drawn illustrations.

For collectors, the New Year 52 Collector’s Set expands the concept into a complete festive narrative. Limited to 1,000 numbered sets, it includes a special cold-foil deck, red envelope accessories, a full set of magnetic components, and an exquisite gift box. 

Printed by TCC on black-core paper with a linen finish, the deck balances elegant handling with durability. Pledge starts at $18 on Kickstarter.

Deck View: Konbine Neko Food Guide Playing Cards

Playful. Whimsical. Delicious.

Designed by Hong Kong–based Mijiko, the Meechelin Food Guide Playing Cards is a charming fusion of Japanese convenience store culture, gourmet parody, and love of cats. Inspired by the Michelin Star, the deck celebrates konbini food as hidden culinary gems, reimagined through illustrated cats enthusiastically interacting with everyday Japanese snacks and meals.

The premium tuck box sets the tone with 3D embossing, gold metallic foil borders, and a foiled Meechelin “gold medal” emblem on the front, while the interior reveals a vintage-toned comic illustration of a convenience store scene. The card backs adopt an Art Deco style, enhanced with copper foil graphics, a UV-varnished Meechelin medal at the center, and sparkling foil gilded edges.

Inside the deck, the courts depict the “Best 12 Neko Foodies,” shown in playful double-ended illustrations centered around specific convenience store foods. Number cards combine menu-style visuals with fun etiquette and rules of Japanese konbini culture. Custom pips subtly reference Japan’s major convenience store chains—7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson, and Mini Stop... while each Ace features a standout illustration of a cat dressed in store uniform.

Printed by WJPC on premium linen-finish stock, Meechelin Food Guide Playing Cards balance thoughtful design, cultural storytelling, and lighthearted illustration into a cohesive and highly collectible deck. For enquiries and orders head to Mijiko's Instagram: @hyugamijiko.