Newly released decks from Art of Play

Art of Play is known for its fine collection of carefully curated decks of high quality playing cards, many of which are optimized for cardistry or for playing card games. Run by cardistry innovators and pioneers Dan and Dave Buck, it is not only a paradise for those who appreciate unique games, puzzles, and playing cards, but it is also the online label under which the Buck twins produce their own brand of playing cards.

I've covered quite a large number of Art of Play's attractive decks previously, but this time I'd like to cover a number of their recently released decks, many of which continue series of other popular decks.

*** NEW STAND-ALONE ***

Illusion d'Optique

The Illusion d'Optique deck isn't just a deck of playing cards, but a miniature art gallery.

It is housed in a custom plastic box, with the name of the deck on one side, along with the promise of "54 eye-popping optical illusions". The reverse side introduces us to the designer Gianni Sarcone, and images of some of the cards inside.



The tuck box itself has a very eye-catching design, with a series of busy jagged lines in parallel, with a holographic reflective surfaces that produces rainbow colours when it catches the light.

This pattern also returns on the back of the cards, with black and white proving a suitable combination for a pattern that plays with our mind.



But the real highlight of this deck is found on the card faces - each of which offers Sarcone's interpretation of classic illusions, as well as some of his own creations.



Quality production from USPCC ensures that the cards perform as good as they look, and that they are a durable product that will go the distance.



The deck needs to be seen to be believed, and each card provides its own entertainment in miniature.





Recommendation

These new designs from Art of Play continue Art of Play's stellar reputation in producing wonderful decks for card magic and card flourishing, as well as novelty designs, with the Optical Illusion deck being an especially fine example of the latter. By collaborating with world class artists and creative thinkers, Dan and Dave Buck continue to ensure that their growing catalogue includes fresh new designs that are the kind of thing that consumers today are looking for.

Not only do these decks feature the best in looks, but as always the creativity of the designs is matched by quality materials and tuck boxes. High quality embossed air-cushioned cards ensure durability as well as smooth handling and consistent performance. The above decks are prime examples of the high quality designs that Art of Play is contributing to the playing card industry.

Whether your interest is in card games, card magic, card flourishing, or even just card collecting, you're almost certain to find some treasures in Art of Play's growing collection, and the decks reviewed here are fine examples of what they offer. If you enjoy quality playing cards, puzzles, or games, then you definitely need to check out whether they can help improve the tools in your hands when you are at play. After all, these guys have turned play into an art!



What to learn more? Check out Art of Play:
- Official website: artofplay.com
- Social media: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest

Direct links for items featured in this review series:
New series: The Harmony Collection (Sea, Land, Air, Space)
Continued series: DKNG Black Wheels, Peau Doux (Silver Edition), NOC Colorgrades (Desert Orange + Tropic Green)
New stand-alone: Illusion d'Optique