About Deck of Adventures
A tabletop RPG built around a standard deck of playing cards.
What is Deck of Adventures?
Deck of Adventures is a tabletop roleplaying game that replaces dice with a standard deck of playing cards. Set in The Realm—a world that exists within an infinite deck of cards—players take on the role of Cardians, beings made of paper, ink, plastic, and metal, who adventure through lands themed around the four suits.
Why Cards Instead of Dice?
Cards are everywhere
No special dice needed. Use any standard 52-card deck.
Probability is visible
Unlike dice, you can see your deck deplete. Tension builds naturally.
Resource decisions matter
Your Power Pile creates meaningful choices about when to use abilities.
Suits create identity
Your character's suit isn't just flavor—it affects gameplay.
It's accessible
Comparing two cards is simpler than mental math with dice.
It feels different
The tactile experience of drawing cards creates a unique atmosphere.
Design Philosophy
Quick to learn
New players can understand the core mechanics in 5 minutes and be playing immediately.
Deep enough to master
Strategic card management rewards thoughtful play without overwhelming new players.
Flexible
Works for one-shots, short campaigns, or extended adventures. The rules scale with your needs.
Distinctive
The card-based mechanics create a different feel from dice-based games—visible probability, resource tension, and suit-based identity.