Brief:

Design a full deck of playing cards based on a chosen theme. The goal was to integrate a meaningful concept into a functional product, turning an everyday object into a piece of visual storytelling.

Theme: Endangered Species
The project aims to create awareness about India’s endangered animals through the medium of playing cards.
Each suit and face card represents a rare species, symbolizing the delicate balance between survival and extinction.

I wanted to transform a simple, playful object into a medium for empathy and education.
Through “Suites of Survival,” I hoped to remind players that every species has a story, and every story deserves to continue.
By merging art, design, and purpose, this deck celebrates biodiversity while provoking thought about conservation.

Once upon a time, these creatures roamed freely. They were majestic, unseen, and vital. Now, their presence fades and their calls grow faint.

But through every shuffle and every game, “Suites of Survival” brings them back to life.

It invites us to play responsibly and remember what’s at stake.

Research Summery:

I researched India’s endangered fauna using data from the IUCN Red List and WWF India.
The research focused on:

• Species most at risk of extinction

• Regional representation (mammals, birds, reptiles)

• Symbolic significance of each animal
  This helped me select species that not only looked visually unique but carried strong conservation messages.

• King: Asiatic Lion: India’s national animal, symbolizing strength and legacy. Once rulers of the wild, now fighting for survival; a reminder that even kings need protection.

  
  

• Queen: The Green Peafowl: The national bird, embodying grace and pride. Her beauty mirrors India’s spirit; vibrant yet fragile in the face of vanishing habitats.

  
  

• Joker 1: King Cobra: The trickster and survivor, often feared but vital. It represents transformation and balance, reminding us that every creature has its purpose.

  
  

• Joker 2: Sarus Crane: A symbol of hope and resilience. The crane’s calm presence reflects nature’s grace; urging us to protect the peace we often take for granted.

Design Element:

• Color Palette: #af3e3e, #4b779b, #fff9eb

• Typeface: Playfair Display

• Style: Minimal yet expressive, combining traditional card design structure with illustrative storytelling.

Packaging: Matchbox Style

The deck comes in a matchbox-style sleeve, symbolizing how a small spark can ignite awareness.
Compact and tactile, it slides open to reveal the “Suites of Survival” cards.
The back side of the box features brief information about each endangered species illustrated in the deck: turning the packaging itself into an educational touchpoint that connects play with purpose.

Matchbox-style sleeve with species info printed on the back; a compact deck that plays, teaches, and inspires.

May every game remind us of the wild hearts we’re fighting to keep…