why doesn t cards against humanity print Cards Against Humanity has taken a unique approach to circumvent import tariffs by launching a new edition that redefines its product as informational material.
why doesn t cards against humanity print
Introduction to the New Edition
This week, Cards Against Humanity (CAH) unveiled its latest project: the “Cards Against Humanity Explains the Joke” edition. This version of the popular party game deviates from the traditional gameplay by eliminating the usual rules and incorporating explanatory notes for each card. By doing so, CAH classifies the product as “informational material” rather than a conventional game, allowing the company to sidestep the hefty import tariffs that have plagued many businesses in recent years. The profits from this limited edition will be donated to the American Library Association, supporting efforts to combat censorship.
The Tariff Dilemma
While this clever maneuver has garnered attention and praise, it raises a pertinent question: If Cards Against Humanity is so frustrated with the unpredictable tariff rates that can be imposed and lifted with little notice, why doesn’t the company print its game in the United States? After all, it seems like a straightforward task to produce a box of cards.
The Complexity of Board Game Manufacturing
The reality is that the board game industry is far more complex than it appears at first glance. Many designers and publishers in the U.S. have grappled with the challenges of local manufacturing for years. Although there is a desire among many U.S.-based designers to collaborate with domestic manufacturers, the practicalities often tell a different story.
Components and Manufacturing Challenges
Modern board games frequently feature a variety of intricate components, including:
- Cardboard elements like constructible dice towers
- Custom-shaped and painted wooden markers
- Multicolored jewel pieces
- Plastic bits in various forms
- Custom-printed component bags
- Molded miniatures
- Cards in multiple sizes
- Metallic coins
- Dry-erase boards
- Elaborate box inserts
- Massive dual-sided playing boards
- Comprehensive manuals
Manufacturers capable of producing such diverse components are predominantly located in China and central Europe. While Germany is known for its high-quality manufacturing, there are also reputable facilities in Poland and the Czech Republic. The concentration of manufacturing capabilities in these regions poses a significant barrier for U.S.-based companies looking to produce their games domestically.
Cost Considerations
Cost is another critical factor influencing the decision to print games overseas. Manufacturing in the U.S. typically incurs higher labor and material costs compared to countries like China. For many small to medium-sized game publishers, these costs can be prohibitive. The price of producing a game domestically can lead to retail prices that are significantly higher than those of similar games produced abroad, potentially alienating customers.
Quality Control and Production Speed
In addition to cost, quality control and production speed are vital considerations. Many manufacturers in China have established processes that allow for rapid production and shipping. This efficiency is particularly important in an industry where trends can shift quickly, and timing can be crucial for a game’s success. U.S. manufacturers, while capable of producing high-quality products, may not have the same level of speed or flexibility, which can be a disadvantage in a competitive market.
Environmental and Ethical Considerations
Despite the challenges associated with overseas manufacturing, some companies are beginning to explore the possibility of local production for environmental and ethical reasons. The carbon footprint associated with shipping games from overseas is significant, and many consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the environmental impact of their purchases. Additionally, there is a growing demand for ethical manufacturing practices, including fair labor conditions and sustainable sourcing of materials.
Consumer Preferences
Consumer preferences are also evolving. Many players are now looking for games that are produced ethically and sustainably. This shift in consumer behavior is prompting some companies to reconsider their manufacturing strategies. However, the transition to local production is not without its challenges, and many companies are still weighing the pros and cons.
Industry Reactions
The board game industry has responded to these challenges in various ways. Some companies have begun to invest in local manufacturing capabilities, while others continue to rely on overseas production. The debate over where to produce games is ongoing, with passionate arguments on both sides.
Support for Local Manufacturing
Advocates for local manufacturing argue that producing games in the U.S. can foster a stronger sense of community and support local economies. They believe that local production can lead to better quality control and more responsive customer service. Furthermore, producing games domestically can help reduce the environmental impact associated with long-distance shipping.
Challenges of Local Production
On the other hand, critics point out that local manufacturing can be cost-prohibitive and may not be feasible for all companies. The complexities of modern board game design mean that many components simply cannot be produced domestically at a competitive price. As a result, many companies find themselves caught in a difficult position, trying to balance the desire for local production with the realities of the market.
The Future of Board Game Manufacturing
As the board game industry continues to evolve, the question of where to produce games will remain a critical issue. The rise of consumer awareness regarding environmental and ethical considerations may push more companies to explore local manufacturing options. However, the challenges associated with cost, quality control, and production speed will continue to complicate this decision.
Innovation in Manufacturing
Innovation in manufacturing processes may also play a role in shaping the future of board game production. Advances in technology, such as 3D printing and automated production methods, could potentially lower costs and improve efficiency, making local manufacturing more viable for a broader range of companies. As these technologies continue to develop, they may open new avenues for U.S.-based game designers and publishers.
Conclusion
While Cards Against Humanity’s recent initiative highlights the complexities of the board game industry, it also underscores the broader challenges faced by many companies in navigating the intricacies of manufacturing. The decision to print games in the U.S. is influenced by a myriad of factors, including cost, quality, and consumer preferences. As the industry evolves, the conversation around local versus overseas production will undoubtedly continue, shaping the future landscape of board game manufacturing.
Source: Original report
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Last Modified: October 11, 2025 at 5:36 pm
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