The Best Playing Cards
Playing cards have been a centerpiece of entertaining games for hundreds of years, and modern decks of playing cards come in more variations than ever before. There are different designs, different textures, and even some that are based on pop culture. If you’re looking to get your own set of playing cards but you’re overwhelmed by all the available options, don’t worry. We’ve narrowed down the best of the best to help you find the playing cards that are right for you.
What to Look For
When narrowing down the best playing cards, we considered card material, overall design, and price. For example, if you want classic playing cards with an added deluxe twist, the Bicycle Dragon premium playing cards have hand-drawn designs and an air-cushion finish. If you want something a bit more modern, the theory11 Star Wars playing cards are decked out with designs that are fit for die-hard fans. Read on to see all our top picks and find the playing cards that are right for you.
LotFancy Playing Cards
Simple and sweet
These cards may look basic at first, but their price and performance make them rise above the competition. These straightforward playing cards are coated with plastic for a smooth texture that makes shuffling easier than ever. This combo pack includes two decks of cards, meaning you get double the playing power in one purchase. On top of all that, the price is almost too good to be true. For simple playing cards with decks to spare, you’d be hard-pressed to beat this bargain.
Pros:
- Plastic-coated for a smooth texture
- Blue core construction
- Comes with two decks
- Decent price
Cons:
- Not as durable as other competitors
Bicycle Playing Cards
Bigger and better
Bicycle is one of the most well-known brands of playing cards, and for good reason. Their catalog offers more variations than almost any other competitor, and this pack is no exception. This particular model comes printed with jumbo-sized numbers and suites for easy reading even if your vision isn’t what it used to be. In addition to that, it comes with the same nine-layer construction that makes Bicycle cards trusted around the world. If you need glasses to play poker or you just like having cards that are easier to read, this pack is a sure winner.
Pros:
- Classic design
- Jumbo-sized numbers and suites
- Made with nine layers
- Durable construction
Cons:
- They are very stiff and may need time to break in
Bicycle Dragon Premium Playing Cards
For card players or magicians that are looking for a little extra flair to their game, this premium pack of specialty cards from Bicycle may be just what you need to spice up your routine. These dragon-themed cards have hand-drawn designs for a level of detail and artistic precision that’s almost unmatchable. While their stylish appearance is easy to see, their performance is a bit more subtle. Each card has an air-cushion finish for easier shuffling and better handling, making them perfect for magic tricks and quick dealing. As an added bonus, they’re 100% recyclable. Whether you use these for a game night with friends or on stage at the magic show, their style and performance are sure to impress.
Pros:
- Hand-drawn court cards
- Air-cushion finish for better performance
- Completely recyclable
- Great for cards games or magic
Cons:
- The blue color may rub off on your table when sliding cards around
Bierdorf Diamond Waterproof Playing Cards
Safe and sound
It’s not uncommon to have drinks at the card table, and if you’re the kind of person who likes to have one in hand while you’re maintaining your poker face, these cards may be right up your alley. These deluxe cards from Bierdorf are made with PET and PVC materials for a waterproof design. This means if you spill your drink or have any card mishaps, you can just wash them off and shuffle them up again. On top of their impressive performance, these cards also have a stylish black aesthetic with silver and gold accents, making for a classy look that’s perfect for parties.
Pros:
- Sleek, black aesthetic
- Smooth texture that’s easy to shuffle
- Waterproof PET and PVC design
- Silver and gold accents
Cons:
- May be too slippery for some players
theory11 Star Wars Playing Cards
Out of this world
If the Force is strong with you, you may want to consider getting these Star Wars-themed playing cards from theory11. While these may look like standard playing cards at first glance, all their designs are changed to Star Wars characters. The back of each card has a design made up of lightsabers, rebel alliance symbols, the Millennium Falcon, and R2-D2. The images range from classic characters like Luke Skywalker and Han Solo to modern ones like Rey. If you’re a Star Wars fan with an affinity for games of chance, these playing cards may be just what you need for your game night.
Pros:
- Great for sci-fi fans
- Clever designs that mimic traditional playing cards
- Features fan-favorite characters from Star Wars
- Comes in light and dark side variations
Cons:
- A little pricier than standard playing cards
Frequently Asked Questions
When were playing cards invented?
Playing cards were invented in China sometime before the year 1000, although the exact date is unknown. However, these cards were a far cry from the modern cards we know today. In the 1480s, the French started creating cards with stencils that more closely resemble the cards we use now.
Why are there 52 cards in a deck?
There are many different theories on this, but some think the 52 cards in a deck correlate to the 52 weeks in a year. In fact, many of the playing cards’ symbols and characters could refer to phenomena in nature and astronomy. Red and black would correspond to day and night, the four suites would represent the four seasons, and so on. However, some believe the symbolism on the cards was supposed to reflect the classes of medieval society.
About the Author
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With the constantly shifting landscape in the world of technology, GameRevolution seeks to provide gamers and tech-enthusiasts with the information they need to select the right products for their needs. Since 1996, our experts have used their knowledge on all the latest gadgets – everything from headphones to standing desks – to help millions of people navigate specs and answer common questions.