Is The Playing Card Market Dead?

In a recent post by Ellusionist, the current state of the playing card market was discussed, revealing its challenges and decline. One of the main issue highlighted is the oversaturation of deck designs within the magic industry, contributing to the diminishing demand for new playing card releases.

Ellusionist pointed out that various independent producers, including notable creators like Pigcake and Fraser Parker, have successfully funded their decks on platforms like Kickstarter. However, despite the reputation and creativity of these producers, the trend shows that the market might have reached a saturation point. The fact that these projects garnered around 190 backers each emphasizes the struggle to establish a sustainable market base.

The blog post further delves into the democratization of deck creation, as modern technology has made it feasible for almost anyone to design and produce their playing cards. This accessibility has led to a rapid increase in the number of deck producers over the past decade, overwhelming potential buyers with an abundance of options and stifling the potential for innovation and uniqueness.

Despite these challenges, I personally think there are positive aspects to consider. The competition and modern technology have empowered countless artists and brands to bring their unique visions to life. This has led to a vibrant and diverse array of playing card designs that cater to different tastes and preferences over the past decade. From double-sided cardistry decks, holographic, and augmented reality cards to gilded decks, full foil and thermal decks. While the market may be crowded, it also offers enthusiasts an opportunity to discover new and exciting decks that resonate with them personally.

Ellusionist also shed light on the repercussions of the US Playing Card Company’s move to legally protect its iconic “rider back” design. This protection led to the discontinuation of several well-known decks, compelling magic companies and brands to seek differentiation across various designs, further complicating the market landscape.

Additionally, the post discussed the challenges posed by extended lead times and heightened production costs, making it difficult for producers to respond swiftly to market trends or create new ones. This situation has resulted in a very competitive environment, where differentiation is scarce.

In response to these challenges, Ellusionist announced their decision to discontinue certain deck designs and offer substantial discounts. They acknowledged that playing cards would no longer be a primary focus of their business, shifting their emphasis towards magic tricks instead.

What are your thoughts on Ellusionist’s recent post? Is the playing card market dead?