Cards Against Humanity (CAH) recently launched a unique project called “Cards Against Humanity Explains the Joke,” which replaces the typical gameplay with explanatory notes on each card. By classifying this as “informational material” rather than a traditional game, CAH cleverly sidesteps import tariffs. All proceeds from this limited edition are donated to the American Library Association to support efforts against censorship.

This inventive move not only highlights CAH’s satirical approach but also raises an important question: If the company is frustrated by unpredictable and high import tariffs, why doesn’t it just produce the game domestically in the United States? After all, manufacturing a deck of cards seems straightforward and manageable, so what’s stopping them?

In the broader tabletop gaming industry, the challenge of domestic manufacturing has been a long-standing issue. While many American designers and publishers would prefer to work with local factories, the reality is often more complicated. Modern board games frequently include intricate components such as custom-shaped wooden figures, detailed miniatures, multi-colored jewel pieces, plastic tokens, elaborate cardboard constructions like dice towers, special-printed component bags, and massive, double-sided game boards. Producing these elements requires advanced manufacturing capabilities that are typically found outside the U.S.

Most high-end game components are manufactured in countries like China, Germany, Poland, or the Czech Republic, where specialized factories have the equipment and expertise to produce complex and high-quality parts at scale. These regions have developed extensive supply chains and skilled labor pools that make manufacturing feasible and cost-effective for complex products, which is often not the case domestically.

While some companies are exploring local manufacturing options, the cost and complexity of producing modern board game components in the U.S. remain significant barriers. This explains why companies like CAH opt for international production, despite the tariffs and logistical challenges, and reflects the broader realities of the global manufacturing landscape for complex tabletop games.

Ethan Cole

I'm Ethan Cole, a tech journalist with a passion for uncovering the stories behind innovation. I write about emerging technologies, startups, and the digital trends shaping our future. Read me on x.com