Geographical Playing Cards USPCC

This is a dual review for both this deck - Geographical Sphere and it's companion Astronomical Sphere.

The tuck boxes are exquisite and in perfect sync with something from 1828. The card backs are incredible though as with other decks with gold printing and fine detailing... it gets a bit lost on a dark back ground but really shines brightly on a white one.

The faces are stunning and as long as you use these in a slower paced game the pips are easily recognized but without numbers or standard suits and index placement could be a challenge in something faster.

Which brings us to the court cards. Possibly the only misstep affects both decks. The gorgeous Kings and Jacks are not easily identifiable from one another by rank when used in a game so unless you've memorized them or know a Chinese emperor out ranks a middle east Sultan or Apollo ranks higher than Bacchus each use will require a cheat card (not provided). Oddly two kings out of eight are identified by small crown icons. Could this not have applied to them all?

This graphic art was done by Azured Ox who has done some truly stunning decks and these are no exception. I also realize most will never use these in a game situation and as a display piece they will shine as bright as any of her other works. 9.4/10

Probably the best word to describe these cards is luxurious.

These cards feel wonderful and they look amazing. They are definitely a conversation piece on game night and they are great for card magic when you want to give certain tricks a veneer of sophistication.

The opposite Double Backer gaff card is seemingly limited unless you also purchase the companion deck, Astronomical Playing Cards. However, that deck is every bit worth buying for all the same reasons.