26/04/2021
It’s not often I come across a concept that makes me want to know more quite as much as this one. So when Jack reached out to me to tell me more about this incredible project and the intricacies hidden within, I found myself instantly hooked on it! As a board gamer and an aspiring publisher, I love eye catching illustrations and original play ideas – all of which Sensu brings.
Designed completely from scratch, in the Japan-themed art playing cards Sensu, Jack has created a unique way to marry narrative-driven artwork and the medium of playing cards. Themed on the Japanese seasons, hearts are Spring and filled with cherry blossoms, clubs are Summer and inspired by the Great Wave, diamonds are Autumn in momiji and spades are Winter with the snowy top of Mount Fuji. When they fan together – opened in a run, they reveal the seasons in all their glory!
As well as looking beautiful, the way these cards are designed also transfers to how they are used. Japanese hanafuda have no indices or markings, so hands are remembered and calculated by players so that the stories and connections live within the players’ minds. Here there are still indices and so no need for memory, but once you learn to recognize them and match them quickly you will have a truly unique playing experience.
Jack says he has many concepts for these playing cards, including creating a unique new game suited perfectly to this creative new design. All I can say is – I’m a big fan! I can’t wait to get mine through the post to add to my board game collection.
The project also admirably goes out of its way to promote sustainability and support animal welfare, something that is becoming increasingly important in today’s world.
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/jackbrutuspenny/sensu?fbclid=IwAR1YciAQXwBVUJjK03dUOspF39yR34SNwxIRrMZxWV553Mn2Capt4llRbmU
