LEGO Rock Raiders Playing Cards
Overview
A private commission for a 1999 LEGO Rock Raiders-themed deck of playing cards. The story focuses on a group of miners stranded on a distant planet and their dangerous search for energy crystals. Every card features custom illustrations, characters, diagrams, pips, and typography.
Aces
Each ace shows a large custom pip in various states of disrepair, with the spade highlighting the main protagonist—the Rock Monster. All cards with characters have a subtle illuminated manuscript vibe with the green energy crystal aura behind each figure’s head.
I received a custom built lego set titled “Matt at Work” as a thank you 🥰
Court Cards
Every court card features one of six main characters, with each suit rocking a unique themed border. Traditional suit colors were used for the pips and a limited palette was maintained across all artwork.
Numbered Cards
A LEGO-esque block font was created for the limited set of numbers and letters. All number cards have a portion of a blueprint which can be assembled into a large mosaic for each suit.
Jokers and Gaff Card
The jokers are represented by the tenacious, slimy slugs. This deck also includes a bonus 55th card, traditionally used as a gaff card, poker instructions, or other non-play information.
Card Back
The card back combines a tech motif, compass, and subterranean machinery.
Tuck Box
The indomitable rock monster is showcased front center with a surprise slimy slug on the interior of the box.
Wrapping up
Be sure to check out my Cryptids of North America deck design tips for a breakdown of how I approach and design playing card projects. Thanks for reading!