Archetypes Trading Cards

Description: Are you looking for a creative way to learn some of the most common archetypes from myth, legend, and literature? Archetypes are certain reoccurring characters, items, and events that appear in all types of stories—mythology, classic literature, popular films, and even video games—often in connection with Joseph Campbell’s concept of the Hero’s Journey. Designed for both the classroom and casual play, this deck features eye-popping illustrations and descriptions for 20 different archetypes. Draw on your background knowledge of literature and media to play five different games detailed on the accompanying rulesheet.

Players: 2-30+

Recommended for ages 10+

Games: Play five different creative games using these cards. Some are traditional favorites such as Archetype Charades and Guess-the-Archetype. Others are new experiences such as the Archetype Story Challenge, where players must tell a group story, and Archetype Dinner Party, where players use their creativity to take on the persona of a certain archetype. Detailed instructions for these games appear on the included game rulesheet.

Included Archetypes: Archetypes include: the Hero, the Shadow, the Mentor, the Quest, the Threshold Guardian, the Herald, the Ally, the Talisman, the Trickster, the Shapeshifter, the Damsel in Distress, the Creature of Nightmare, Starcrossed Lovers, Friendly Beasts, the Loyal Retainer, the Devil Figure, the Evil Creature with a Good Heart, the Outcast, the Temptress, and the Platonic Ideal.