Exploding Kittens

Exploding Kittens: Revolutionizing Fun with Innovative Tabletop Games

Introduction

Founded in 2015, Exploding Kittens is a trailblazing game company that has redefined the tabletop gaming experience. Known for its innovative, laugh-out-loud gameplay concepts and whimsical designs, the company has become a household name among families, friends, and casual gamers alike. With games that appeal to all ages, Exploding Kittens has created a new standard for accessible and engaging entertainment.

At its core, Exploding Kittens is about bringing people together through laughter, strategy, and a touch of delightful absurdity. From its record-breaking Kickstarter campaign to its continuously expanding portfolio, the company has proven its ability to combine creativity, humor, and simplicity into games that resonate worldwide.

The Origin Story

Exploding Kittens was co-founded by Elan Lee, a game designer and former Xbox executive, and Matthew Inman, creator of the popular webcomic The Oatmeal. Their shared passion for games and humor resulted in the concept for Exploding Kittens, a card game that combined strategic decision-making with quirky, cartoonish charm.

The company’s debut on Kickstarter in 2015 became a historic moment in crowdfunding. With a goal of $10,000, the campaign raised an astonishing $8.8 million from over 219,000 backers, making it the most-backed Kickstarter project of all time at the time. This overwhelming response not only launched the brand but cemented its reputation as a disruptor in the tabletop gaming industry.

Core Values and Mission

The mission of Exploding Kittens is simple: to create games that foster connection and joy. The company believes that the best games are those that are easy to learn, inclusive, and capable of sparking moments of shared hilarity and bonding.

Key values that define Exploding Kittens include:

• Simplicity: Games are designed to be learned in minutes, ensuring anyone can join in the fun.

• Creativity: Every game features unique themes, gameplay mechanics, and imaginative artwork.

• Community: Exploding Kittens thrives on player feedback and interaction, often involving fans in shaping new products.

• Humor: From the concepts to the rulebooks, humor is an essential part of the Exploding Kittens experience.

Flagship Games

Exploding Kittens

The company’s namesake game, Exploding Kittens, is a strategic card game that’s part Russian roulette, part whimsical chaos. Players draw cards while trying to avoid the explosive kittens that will end their game.

• Players: 2-5 (expandable with add-ons).

• Playtime: 15 minutes.

• Key Features: Hilarious artwork, easy-to-learn rules, and endless replayability.

• Expansions: Imploding Kittens, Streaking Kittens, and more add depth and variety.

Throw Throw Burrito

Billed as the world’s first dodgeball card game, Throw Throw Burrito combines card collecting with physical action. Players collect matching cards while dodging soft foam burritos thrown by their opponents.

• Players: 2-6.

• Playtime: 15-30 minutes.

• Key Features: Physical activity meets strategic card play, creating uproarious fun for groups.

Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza

This fast-paced matching game is a test of reflexes and memory. Players take turns flipping cards while saying the game’s title in order, with hilarious consequences when matches occur.

• Players: 3-8.

• Playtime: 10-15 minutes.

• Key Features: Simple rules and high-energy gameplay make it a party favorite.

Hand-to-Hand Wombat

A cooperative and competitive party game, Hand-to-Hand Wombat challenges players to build towers blindly while secretly thwarting their opponents.

• Players: 3-6.

• Playtime: 15 minutes.

• Key Features: Combines teamwork and mischief for a unique party experience.

Recent Releases

Mantis

A lighthearted card game where players steal, score, and strategize. Mantis offers vibrant artwork and straightforward mechanics, appealing to gamers of all ages.

Poetry for Neanderthals

A hilarious guessing game where players use single-syllable words to describe phrases while avoiding penalties.

Special Edition and Licensed Games

Exploding Kittens has also collaborated with popular franchises to create licensed versions of its games, including:

• Exploding Minions: Featuring beloved characters from the Despicable Me universe.

• Bears vs. Babies: A quirky, monster-building game filled with the brand’s signature humor.

Commitment to Innovation

The company continually pushes the boundaries of what tabletop games can offer, experimenting with new mechanics and formats while keeping games approachable for new players.

In addition to physical games, Exploding Kittens has explored digital adaptations. Mobile versions of Exploding Kittens and other titles have extended the brand’s reach, allowing fans to play their favorite games online with friends around the world.

Company Milestones

• 2015: Exploding Kittens launches on Kickstarter, breaking crowdfunding records.

• 2016: Release of the first expansion, Imploding Kittens.

• 2019: Launch of Throw Throw Burrito, introducing physical gameplay elements.

• 2020: Digital adaptation of Exploding Kittens expands the game’s accessibility.

• 2022: Release of Hand-to-Hand Wombat, showcasing a new twist on social deduction.

Community Engagement

Exploding Kittens actively connects with its fanbase through:

• Social Media: Engaging posts and humorous content on platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok.

• Events: Participation in conventions, game nights, and other gaming community gatherings.

• Feedback Channels: Soliciting ideas and feedback to improve existing games and develop new ones.

Impact on the Industry

Exploding Kittens has left an indelible mark on the tabletop gaming world by:

• Reaching New Audiences: Attracting players who might not typically engage with board games.

• Revitalizing Humor in Games: Proving that games can be both simple and deeply funny.

• Setting Crowdfunding Standards: Inspiring other creators with their record-breaking Kickstarter success.

Sustainability and Responsibility

The company is also committed to minimizing its environmental impact by using eco-friendly materials and practices wherever possible.

Future Vision

With a proven track record of success and innovation, Exploding Kittens continues to explore new ways to entertain and connect people. Whether through expansions, brand-new games, or digital experiences, the company’s goal is to keep delighting players with fresh ideas that bring humor and connection to every table.

Conclusion

Exploding Kittens has grown from a record-breaking Kickstarter sensation to a beloved brand in the tabletop gaming world. With a portfolio of inventive, hilarious, and approachable games, the company has captured the hearts of millions of players.

Whether you’re a long-time fan or discovering the joy of Exploding Kittens for the first time, their games promise endless laughter, memorable moments, and a shared love for creative fun.