Playing Cards with Flair: 50 Decks You Need to See

Playing cards aren’t just for your average game of poker or solitaire anymore. With a growing collection of incredible art decks out there, your next round of rummy, hearts, or even a casual game of Go Fish could have people talking about more than just their next move. Whether you’re dealing out a hand of blackjack or showing off a card trick, these unique decks are sure to catch the eye and start some fun conversation. Here are 50 playing card decks that bring both art and gameplay to a whole new level.

Let’s get the party started…

Flea Circus Playing Cards

Art of Play’s Flea Circus miniature playing cards showcase whimsical illustrations celebrating the amazing acts of a legendary “flea” circus. From daring stunts to comedic antics, these tiny performers will leave you wondering how they pulled it off. Illustrated by Jeff Trish, the deck features 54 unique acts, one on each card, and comes in a luxurious box with gold foil and embossing.

Superman Playing Cards

Inspired by the Golden Age of DC Comics, the Superman Playing Cards pay tribute to the first superhero, styled after the classic vintage Action Comics series. Featuring custom artwork, premium embossing, and Superman’s vibrant colors, each deck is sealed with a postage stamp from the Daily Planet.

The deck brings your favorite characters to life, including Superman, Lois Lane, Supergirl, and more, along with iconic villains like Lex Luthor and General Zod—even Krypto the Superdog and Mr. Mxyzptlk!

Rick & Morty

Embark on a wild multiverse adventure with the maddest scientist and his loyal grandson. These Rick and Morty cards feature iconic characters and unforgettable moments from the show. Each deck even comes sealed with a Pickle Rick sticker!

Back to the Future

Rev up your game night with Bicycle’s Back to the Future Playing Cards. Featuring the iconic DeLorean and loaded with easter eggs, this deck is a must-have for Back to the Future fans. Custom court cards feature Marty McFly and Doc Brown, turning every hand into a thrilling scene from the movie.

Montenzi Playing Cards

You have probably heard of Theory 11 cards and Bicycle cards, but there are some other companies out there that are making beautiful playing cards. Montenzi is a brand you might not have heard of before, but they make incredible cards. I haven’t chosen 1 particular style here. Instead, I really want you to head over to their website and have a look at all of their beautiful packs.

Harry Potter

A magical celebration of the wizarding world, Harry Potter playing cards are the perfect tribute to the iconic series. From the Philosopher’s Stone to the Deathly Hallows, each card lets you relive the story’s most memorable moments with every shuffle.

Elvis

Elvis Presley, one of the most significant cultural icons of the 20th century, transformed Rock & Roll forever. From his first number one hit in 1956 to becoming the best-selling solo artist of all time, his legacy continues to inspire. Every detail of this deck—from the box to the back design and card faces—pays tribute to the King of Rock & Roll. Whether you’re shuffling through his early days in Tupelo or his global superstardom, you take the stage with Elvis every time you hold these cards. How amazing is that Ace of Spades card pictured?

Star Wars Playing Cards

These Star Wars decks are amazing. There are number of varieties to choose from including the dark side and the light. Check them all out here.

The Beatles

The colorful outer packaging of these playing cards is inspired by the iconic Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, with each box representing the vibrant uniforms worn by John, Paul, George, and Ringo. The fully custom design of the box, back, and card faces pays homage to the Beatles’ legendary history. From their beginnings in Liverpool to global stardom, each card lets you relive their journey.

Featuring nods to fan-favorite songs like “Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds,” “Eleanor Rigby,” and “Blackbird,” these cards are packed with Easter eggs for true Beatles fans. Gather your friends and enjoy game night with the Fab Four, as John, Paul, George, and Ringo take the stage as kings, alongside characters from their iconic songs.

Play Dead V2

The new Play Dead cards are packed with even more style than version 1! While the bold mix of line and shape patterns with 3D forms remains, the new teal-green color adds a touch of seriousness, reminding you to play with flair.

Calder Playing Cards

Each letter, number, and suit in the Calder Playing Card set was meticulously clipped from over forty vibrant gouache paintings from the 1970s, known as the Card Player series. In these works, Calder captures sharply dressed poker players reviewing their hands, with oversized cards floating within the compositions.

Wonka

Magician, inventor, and chocolate-maker extraordinaire! Dive into the world of Willy Wonka with this deck, featuring custom illustrations of your favorite characters from the film, all packaged in a luxurious matte-purple and gold foil box. Open the deck to discover magical delights, with character court cards showcasing Prodnose, Fickelgruber, Slugworth, and more. Meet new friends like Noodle and the Oompa-Loompas, and let your imagination run wild!

Animal Kingdom

Animal Kingdom Playing Cards feature hand-illustrated artwork, with even the court cards crafted by hand. For 50 years, WWF has been working to protect the future of nature, and with each deck sold, $1 is donated to help preserve and protect our planet.

The Grateful Dead

Formed in 1965, the Grateful Dead became a cultural institution, blending rock, folk, and jazz with avant-garde traditions. Their influence spans over half a century. The playing cards’ box packaging, printed using antique letterpress machines from the 1960s, features six layers of vibrant color and embossed details. The front showcases the Skull & Roses, while the back design includes the Steal Your Face logo and iconic imagery beloved by Dead Heads.

Braniff Playing Cards

In the late 1960s, if you were a stylish and forward-thinking traveler, you’d choose Braniff International Airways for a fashionable and colorful flying experience. These playing cards celebrate that jet-set era and Braniff’s lasting influence on art, fashion, design, and travel.

Fulton Street

Fulton Street Playing Cards are a love letter to the graphic design of the New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority. By “cropping into” the curves designed by Vignelli, these cards feature a back design that captures the kinetic energy of transit in The Big Apple.

Keith Haring

Keith Haring’s signature style comes alive in these playing cards, with his iconic figures dancing and playing, capturing the joy that made his art beloved worldwide. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a card game fanatic, or seeking a unique gift, these cards elevate each experience while paying homage to one of the most influential artists of our time. Perfect for a casual game night or as a stunning art piece, Keith Haring Playing Cards will instantly inspire.

Star Trek

Boldly go where no person has gone before with Star Trek Playing Cards, featuring your favorite characters from the original series and latest films. Available in dark and light variations, each card celebrates legendary characters like Captain Kirk, Spock, and Hikaru Sulu. These premium cards, with custom artwork on Aces, Jokers, court cards, and back design, will take game nights to warp speed. The outer packaging boasts colorful foil accents and intricate embossing.

James Bond

The name’s Bond, James Bond. Inspired by the legendary film series, these premium playing cards celebrate 58 years of 007, from his debut in Dr. No to the latest film, No Time To Die. Presented by Theory 11, the cards feature ultra-lux packaging with gold foil, embossed accents, and a 3D sculpted James Bond family crest. Inside, you’ll find iconic weapons and gadgets from your favorite Bond films, including the pen grenade from GoldenEye and Bond’s trusty Walther PPK.

Ramen Heads

Who doesn’t love a bowl of Ramen? Initially produced for Art of Play’s 2022 Mystery Deck promotion, this unique deck is now available exclusively via their catalog. Collaborated with illustrator Jannik Stegen to create a custom ramen-themed deck inspired by vintage Japanese graphic design. It features twelve custom court cards depicting playful characters from Japan’s vibrant history, including Godzilla, a toy robot, a sumo wrestler, and a samurai, all enjoying ramen.

Dreyfus Art

Produced in collaboration with imaginative illustrator Ashley Dreyfus, this custom deck of cards features whimsical, psychedelic characters. Join Dreyfus’ “alter egos” on an adventure through a magical forest with smiley mushrooms, playful dragons, double rainbows, singing birds, and a robot coffee maker. It’s easy to see why Dreyfus’ joyful art has passionate fans worldwide.

Third Man Records

Produced in collaboration with Third Man Records, this unique set of playing cards was designed by the creative team behind Jack White’s independent record label. Encased in a beautifully printed black-on-black tuck case with foil accents resembling a record, the fully-custom deck features a minimal back design and custom face cards.

Monarch

Monarchs feature custom artwork, including aces, jokers, and with traditional Bicycle courts for Kings, Queens, and Jacks to match the royalty theme. These high-quality cards were prominently featured in the blockbuster heist movies ‘Now You See Me’ and ‘Now You See Me 2’ alongside stars like Daniel Radcliffe, Jesse Eisenberg, and Morgan Freeman.

Basquiat Playing Cards

A tribute to Basquiat, these playing cards celebrate the life’s work of one of America’s most influential artists, featuring his iconic sketches, drawings, and paintings. Jean-Michel Basquiat’s neo-expressionist art transcends cultures and social landscapes, blending street art and social commentary to provoke introspection. Every aspect of the design was meticulously selected to create an authentic Basquiat experience, with his art featured on every card and the box itself.

Mystique

Mystique: A framework of beliefs or ideas constructed around a person or object, giving it profound meaning or value. Designed by Shapeshifters Playing Cards, this fully custom deck is guaranteed to enchant and intrigue. With its mysterious allure and exquisite craftsmanship, this one-of-a-kind deck is a true masterpiece, perfect for card enthusiasts and collectors alike.

Thunderbird Room

Inspired by Arizona’s stunning sunsets and a retro 60s color palette, Fulton’s Thunderbird Room is a masterfully crafted casino deck that transports you to the heart of the Valley of the Sun. Imagined as a fictitious high-limit room at Ace Fulton’s Casino in Phoenix, Arizona, this deck is a timeless representation of beauty in playing cards. Illustrated by Jeff Trish in a classic mid-century style and produced by The Buck Twins, Thunderbird Room captures the charm and elegance of a bygone era.

Noblific Cats

If you’re a fan of the Cat Kingdom, these cards are a must-have! The face cards are irresistibly adorable, featuring cats dressed in beautiful, Miyazaki-esque outfits. Each suit is thoughtfully designed with delightful patterns that go beyond simple colors.

Dinosaur

The Dinosaurs Playing Cards deck features 54 original illustrations by renowned artist William Stout, known for his genre-defining work bringing dinosaurs to life. Sought after by Steven Spielberg, Walt Disney Imagineering, and Ray Bradbury, Stout’s paleontological drawings have been showcased in world-renowned museums, including the Smithsonian and the British Museum.

Rolling Stones

Direct from England, bringing the rock since ’62, The Rolling Stones are rock and roll. Dive into the world of these English legends with official, premium playing cards. Get some satisfaction and celebrate rock ‘n’ roll history! Whether you’re a die-hard Stones fan or a card enthusiast, these cards will bring a touch of rock to your game night. Featuring custom art of each band member on the court cards, these premium playing cards are produced in collaboration with The Rolling Stones.

Freak of Horror

Unleash your inner ghost storyteller with these spine-chilling Freak of Horror cards, perfect for classic games like poker and blackjack! Crafted from high-quality materials with a luxurious linen finish, these cards offer a delightful tactile experience that adds a touch of elegance to your spooky game nights.

SNL

Every card is a work of art, drawing inspiration from the vibrant world of Saturday Night Live. Featuring the iconic stage backdrop of Studio 8H and nods to beloved sketches, each element brings a piece of SNL history to your fingertips. The custom Ace of Spades and Joker, along with specially crafted court cards, pay homage to unforgettable moments, from the clever wit of Weekend Update to the outrageous charm of characters like Stefon and The Ladies Man. And let’s not forget the cowbells!

Prismatic

Elevate your card game experience with Bicycle Prismatic Playing Cards. Featuring a vibrant, prismatic design that captures attention, these cards add elegance to every game.

Gents of Fortune

This custom deck of playing cards showcases pirates, buccaneers, and Gentlemen of Fortune, featuring 52 cards plus two unique jokers and an identification card for all the pirates. Illustrated by Gustavo Borboa, this deck brings the adventurous spirit of the high seas to life in every card.

Day of the Dead

he Fulton’s Day of the Dead deck is the ultimate playing card set for the Halloween season. This deck weaves a personal tale of the afterlife, Halloween, and the Day of the Dead, resulting in one of the most intricate and profound back designs ever created for a deck of cards.

Described by Fulton as “a love letter to playing cards and cinema,” the deck imagines cinematic legends Luis Buñuel and Orson Welles reuniting in the afterlife to make one final film. Hidden references and surprise appearances pay tribute to some of Fulton’s most cherished memories, making this deck a unique and cinematic experience in the world of playing cards.

Tempo

Tempo Playing Cards draw inspiration from the golden age of jazz, a time when artists like Bessie Smith, Cab Calloway, Ella Fitzgerald, and Billie Holiday rose to fame in the 1920s and 30s. Designed by Michael Mateyko, each card showcases Art Deco-style illustrations that beautifully capture the essence of improvisation and musical expression, paying tribute to the vibrant spirit of jazz.

Modern Times Beer

Produced in collaboration with the San Diego-based microbrewery Modern Times, these super-ultra premium playing cards are a vibrant explosion of color. Featuring a psychedelic back design and a unique numbering system for the face cards, they come beautifully packaged in letterpress-printed tuck boxes, making them a striking addition to any card collection.

Henry and Sally

Produced in collaboration with Danish microbrewery Mikkeller and art director Keith Shore, this Limited Edition deck features the iconic hop-sniffing characters Henry & Sally, who have adorned Mikkeller beer labels since 2010. The deck includes an original back design, two jokers, and thirteen custom face cards, packaged in six unique collectors boxes distributed at random.

Art and Machine

Illustrated by Ryan Hewlett, this unique deck of playing cards visually represents the history of modern art, design, and machine technology. Each suit focuses on a different moment in art history: Bauhaus typography (♠), mid-century book cover design (♥), late 20th-century silkscreen poster aesthetic (♣), and contemporary art & design in the mobile age (♦).

Flying Dog

In collaboration with Flying Dog Brewery and visionary artist Ralph Steadman, we proudly present The Ralph Steadman Art Collection, beautifully printed on playing cards. Featuring 18 iconic Steadman paintings, custom face cards, and an ink-splattered back design, this deck showcases the artist’s uniquely surreal style. Packaged in a stunning letterpress-printed tuck box, this collection lets you experience the whimsical and chaotic brilliance of Ralph Steadman in every game.

Into the Weird

Embrace your inner weirdness with this custom deck of playing cards, Into the Weird. Inspired by our fascination with the strange and unusual, this deck invites you to unlock a chamber of secrets and dive into an unfolding adventure. Designed in collaboration with Jenny Gebhardt, each shuffle reveals a new part of the story with 54 unique illustrations.

Jungle

Bursting with vibrant colors and raw animal magnetism, this deck’s savage design is inspired by Africa’s lush jungles. Each custom illustrated card features iconic flora and fauna from the Zulu wilderness, with monkeys, parrots, and jungle cats running wild throughout the pack. The jungle tuck case, printed on an antique Heidelberg letterpress, gives the colors a vintage “washed” look that complements the eye-catching graphics inside.

Creepy Creatures

The All Hallows’ Eve Creepy Creatures Playing Card Deck features 58 unique monster portraits, each illustrated by Chet Phillips. This plastic-coated, poker-sized deck includes 2 Jokers and 4 Wild Cards, all showcasing eerie and iconic creatures by name. Perfect for adding a spooky touch to your card games, this deck is a celebration of creepy characters!

Deck of Robots

Deck of Robots takes you inside one of Stellar Factory’s remote, robot-run facilities. Each face card showcases a quirky yet functional robot, each busy with tasks like testing new games or printing cards. Dive into the details of each card to discover the unique role every robot plays in this lively mechanical world.

Pitch Black

The Pitch Black Playing Cards deck from Cartamundi is a strikingly aesthetic “dark” deck, perfect for professional poker, cardistry performers, and magicians. Designed by Jirs Huygen, the deck features standard poker-size cards with a smooth finish, delivering both a reckless and atmospheric gaming experience.

The cards are primarily anthracite black, with sharp, minimalist lines that depict the suits. Black suits—Clubs and Spades—are drawn in snow-white lines, giving them an eerie, ghost-like quality, while red suits—Hearts and Diamonds—are a rich scarlet, evoking “bloodied ghosts.” Each illustration incorporates themes of skulls and the undead, creating an artistic yet recognizable twist on the classic deck.

Space Invaders

For card players and Space Invaders fans, this set of Space Invaders Playing Cards features a standard deck with each suit represented by an iconic alien enemy. The deck comes in an embossed tin designed like the beloved arcade game, making it the perfect retro gift for gamers.

Code:Deck

code:modern is a one-of-a-kind playing card deck where each card is creatively represented by a unique code snippet. Perfect for tech enthusiasts, this deck merges the world of coding with the classic deck of cards, offering a fresh and modern twist on traditional gameplay.

Glitch 2.0

The original GLITCH cards sold out fast, so Soleil is back with GLITCH 2.0. This second edition comes in two new versions: Circuit Fail and Error Msg. With even more vibrant and colorful tuck art, these decks are packed with new glitches and printed using neon and fluorescent Pantone spot colors for an eye-popping look.

Cyberpunk

Cyberpunk Cybernetic playing cards combine futuristic high-tech imagery with the gritty aesthetic of an urban cityscape. Featuring an Air-Cushion Finish for smooth handling and shuffling, these cards boast custom cybernetic court designs and striking holographic neon pink foil. Whether you’re dealing a hand or showing off your collection, these cards are sure to impress your friends and family!

Brosmind

Designed by the talented artists at the Spanish studio Brosmind, these trippy Bicycle Playing Cards showcase a completely custom design with 56 unique illustrations, making each card a work of art. The Bicycle Brosmind’s Four Gangs deck is one-of-a-kind, yet remains perfectly suited for traditional games like Poker and Blackjack. Founded by brothers Juan and Alejandro Mingarro, Brosmind is known for combining fantasy and humor into their distinctive style.

90s Cartoons

Featuring a fun ’90s theme with an array of cute cartoon designs, these cards are perfect for game nights, family gatherings, or a laid-back evening with friends. Their vibrant design appeals to both adults and teens, making them a great gift for anyone who loves ’90s throwbacks. Get ready for a night of fun, strategy, and memories with these unique 90s-themed playing cards!

So yeah, 50 playing cards that aren’t like the ones your grandparents used. Maybe you’ll play solitaire or just shuffle them for fun. They’re kinda cool, I guess. If you happen to host a game night, people might notice them and comment on how amazing your cards are and how incredible you are as a person, but probably not.