At this point in our lives, we have all probably heard of the highly acclaimed game Cards Against Humanity, but is this game really “against humanity” as it asserts? As stated by the company itself, “Cards Against Humanity is a party game for horrible people.” But how horrible can this game really be? Since the game came out in May 2011, it has brought people together and force the discussion of rather uncomfortable topics.
People flock to play the game as there are always comedic results, and the game can be played with well over 20 people. Certain bonds are forged between the people partaking in the game due to the nature of the responses. In many cases, friendships are born out of the sheer absurdity of each round.
If you haven’t heard of the popular game, here is how it works. Each player is dealt a set of ten white cards. Then, one player chooses a black card that has either a question or fill-in-the-blank sentence printed on it. All other players than use a white card to answer or fill in the black card. A winner is then chosen based on which card is the funniest to the person who chose the black card. The winner of that round then plays the black card for the next round, then so on and so forth. Both the black and white cards have some very unconventional, if not controversial, topics faced in today’s society.
There are several extension packs that can be purchased for the game surrounding different topics. A few examples are the harry potter pack, a “period pack”as well as a college pack.
Sometimes during game play, a topic will arise where people have conflicting views. This gives the players a platform to casually discuss rather serious topics. In today's society, it is important for an open line of communication to exist for conflicting opinions. Cards Against Humanity provides a platform to do exactly that.
In a world where political tension is continuing to rise, it is important to talk with one another about pressing issues. While playing the game, you are getting to know the fellow participants. Even if you think you know the people you are playing with, there is always one new thing you can learn about them.
So, how can a game that not only brings people together but opens lines of communication be against humanity? It can’t. In my opinion, the game is inaccurately named. The game should be considered more of a connecting piece as opposed to one that tears humanity apart.
I will leave you with a point to ponder. If you have played, how has Cards Against Humanity influenced your friend group in a positive way?