Let’s Shuffle
We know what you may be thinking. Card games, really? Do people even play those anymore? Well, let us be the ones to tell you that card games are here to stay —specifically, ones that center around conversation and connection. Here at The Edge, we believe in the value of unplugging from technology and connecting with those around you. We’re all used to whipping out our phones at the function to play coveted games like “Heads Up” or “Boomit.” But what about a tangible deck to pass around with friends? Below, we’ve compiled a list of four card games aimed at provoking meaningful conversations and forging deeper connections.
The Hygge Game — Cozy Conversation in Pleasant Company
“Hygge” is a word in Danish and Norwegian for enjoying the good things in life. It’s a feeling of togetherness, well-being and coziness. There is nothing more hygge than sharing a good time with friends and family through intimate conversation. The Hygge Game is all about bringing friends and family together to share stories and discuss the big and small things in life with more than 300 entertaining and thoughtful questions designed to spark “cozy conversation.” In embodying the hygge dynamic, there are no winners and losers in the game. The goal is simply to make it as hygge as possible, and everybody wins.
Even if you know those in the group game well, the Hygge Game is fun as it provides questions that you would not normally think of asking. For example, “Is there any value in buying paper dictionaries anymore?” Rotate picking up questions around the group, and embody your inner hygge as you do it.
We’re Not Really Strangers
The second game on our list, “We’re Not Really Strangers,” is an authentic connection card game created in 2018 by L.A. model and photographer Koreen Odiney. As Odiney states in a YouTube interview, “We’re Not Really Strangers is all about creating instant intimacy between you and a complete stranger.”
The game is divided into three carefully crafted levels of questions and wildcards: first base, second base and third base. According to Odiney, the bases parallel the way that we engage with people and essentially break it down for us. “Base one challenges the assumptions we make about each other” and is surface level, says Odiney.
Some of these “first-base” questions include: “What story do you think strangers make up about me?” The second base digs deep, past public perception and down to personal truth. Questions include, “What is something that is hard to admit about yourself?” or “Have you changed your mind about anything recently?” The last and final base, the third, is reflective, with questions such as, “What has this conversation taught you about yourself?” and “What do you think my strength is?” We’re Not Really Strangers challenges you to step out of your comfort zone and exchange vulnerability with others. Warning: this game will trigger emotions, so proceed at your own pace. :)
Let’s Get Closer Conversation Game
Let’s Get Closer Conversation Game by Intelligent Change is a tool designed to facilitate meaningful and deeper connections between people. It’s an easy-to-play game that cultivates relationships by engaging friends, family members, couples and even those who have just met in a deep and meaningful way. The Let’s Get Closer cards feature 100 “Ice Breakers cards” and similarly to WNRS, the deck is separated into three levels: close, closer and closest. Each progressive level poses questions that become more personal, challenging players to share and strengthen their bond. The game truly is made for all. With its more general conversation questions, the game is perfect for a hangout session or dinner with family.
Girl Code
If you’re looking for a game that embodies the essence of brands like Call Her Daddy and For the Girls, the Girl Code game is just for you. Girl Code includes 350 prompts, from dares, shares, callouts and immersive challenges. Each round, players take turns mixing and matching edgy answers to answer prompts or wild cards. Draw a wild card and you may get a question prompt such as: “Give constructive criticism on everyone’s outfits.” Draw an answer card such as “showing up for my date late on purpose” or “reenact argument in the shower.” The game is female-targeted and fits right in the setting of a bachelorette party or pre-game though, of course, is open for anyone to play.
We hope you keep these choices in mind as your next stocking-stuffer or game night activity. Make sure to tag us @theedgemag if you choose to play any of these card games. With that, happy hangout!