TAROT - A Game of Fortune

TAROT - A Game of Fortune is a unique card game developed by 12 East Games, aiming to make fortune-telling accessible and fun. Unlike a traditional 78-card tarot deck, this game consists of 25 cards: the 22 Major Arcana from the Rider-Waite system, plus three original cards created by the designers. The core concept is to combine cards to build fortunes for friends, with each card featuring a short fortune-cookie-like phrase and a connecting word (like "so" or "or") to string together narratives.

The game is designed for ease of learning, allowing players to quickly grasp the fortune-telling process. The focus is on social interaction and lighthearted interpretation, rather than deep esoteric study. The campaign emphasizes that telling fortunes can be as enjoyable as receiving them, fostering connection and conversation among players. The deck was intended to be printed on 330gsm cardstock with a matte finish, packaged in a tuck box, and offered alongside custom-designed pouches and cloths.

While inspired by tarot, the deck functions primarily as a game, simplifying the traditional system to create a more immediate and playful experience. The inclusion of new cards and the emphasis on narrative stringing differentiate it from standard tarot practice, positioning it as a party game or a casual tool for self-reflection and group fun. The project, though ultimately unfunded, aimed to bring a fresh, game-oriented approach to the concept of fortune-telling.

This game is ideal for individuals new to tarot or those intimidated by the complexity of traditional decks, offering a simplified and playful entry point into fortune-telling. It appeals to people looking for a social, interactive card game that sparks conversation and lighthearted fun among friends. Collectors of unique or game-oriented card decks might also appreciate its distinct concept and artwork. It is not intended for serious tarot practitioners seeking a traditional reading experience.

Angelica and Aubrey, the team behind 12 East Games in Portland, Oregon, created TAROT - A Game of Fortune out of a love for tarot's art and fortune-telling excitement, coupled with a desire to make it easier to learn. Their company focuses on creating fun, interesting games that bring people together. This project followed their successful crowd-funded game "Trackless" on the Fig platform, which explored a spiritual journey. Their process involved prototyping the game and refining the art, with Aubrey as the artist and writer, and Angelica handling business and design.