Exploding Kittens

Definition

Exploding Kittens is a popular card game created by Elan Lee, Matthew Inman, and Shane Small, known for its humorous art and engaging gameplay. It gained immense popularity through crowdfunding, specifically on Kickstarter, where it became one of the most-backed projects ever. This game not only reflects the potential of crowdfunding to launch unique ideas but also highlights how a strong community can drive success in a startup.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Exploding Kittens launched its Kickstarter campaign in 2015 and raised over $8.7 million from nearly 220,000 backers.
2. The game's quirky and whimsical artwork was designed by Matthew Inman, the creator of the popular webcomic The Oatmeal.
3. Exploding Kittens features a simple gameplay mechanic that allows players to enjoy quick rounds, making it appealing to both casual and dedicated gamers.
4. The success of Exploding Kittens demonstrated how effective marketing and community engagement can lead to phenomenal crowdfunding results.
5. Following its initial success, the game spawned multiple expansions and spin-offs, further solidifying its place in the tabletop gaming market.

Review Questions

• How did Exploding Kittens utilize crowdfunding to achieve its success?
  • Exploding Kittens effectively used Kickstarter as a platform to reach a large audience and gather funds for production. The campaign featured engaging visuals and a clear explanation of the game's unique features, which attracted a significant number of backers. This community-driven funding approach not only provided the necessary capital but also created a dedicated fanbase eager to support future projects and expansions.
• Discuss the role of humor and artwork in the appeal of Exploding Kittens as a crowdfunding project.
  • Humor and artwork play crucial roles in Exploding Kittens' appeal, setting it apart from other card games. The quirky illustrations by Matthew Inman resonate with players who appreciate light-hearted content, while the funny premise enhances player engagement. This combination captured the attention of potential backers during the Kickstarter campaign, leading to its viral success as people shared their enthusiasm for the game's unique charm.
• Evaluate the impact of Exploding Kittens on the tabletop gaming industry and crowdfunding trends.
  • The phenomenal success of Exploding Kittens has significantly influenced both the tabletop gaming industry and crowdfunding trends. It showcased how innovative ideas could gain substantial backing through community involvement, inspiring many creators to explore crowdfunding as a viable launch method for their projects. Additionally, it contributed to a resurgence in popularity for tabletop games, demonstrating that with the right mix of creativity and marketing strategy, even niche products can find widespread success.

Related terms

Kickstarter: A crowdfunding platform that allows creators to showcase their projects and raise funds from backers in exchange for rewards.

Tabletop Games: Games that are played on a flat surface, often involving strategy, chance, and social interaction among players.

Backer: An individual who supports a crowdfunding project by contributing money, often receiving rewards or products in return.