Most of us have bent the rules of UNO over the years, or even created our own.
Now, the global game is set to feature a very Aussie spin that’s sure to add extra spice to family games nights and catch ups with mates.
A limited-edition collaboration between UNO Artiste and local artist Mulga has just been released, incorporating unmistakably Australian imagery with colloquialisms heard nowhere else in the world.
Players will be faced with rock star koalas, bin chickens, surfing kangaroos, and a full banquet of Aussie icons.
Artist Joel Moore (AKA Mulga) said he was excited to discover how Aussies would connect with his Australiana-inspired creations.
“One of the things I enjoy most as an artist is creating work that becomes part of people’s everyday lives, rather than something that just hangs on a wall,” he said.
“There’s something special about knowing these illustrations will end up around kitchen tables, at campsites and on holidays, becoming part of people’s own stories and memories.”
Perhaps the most intriguing element of the deck will be the introduction of new Aussie-fied wild cards.
The “Yeah-Nah” wild card acts to block any move from the previous player, where you can bypass a Skip, dodge a Draw Two, or completely block a Draw Four.
Whereas the “Nah-Yeah” wild card allows the next player to cancel a “Yeah-Nah” and put the original action right back into play.
UNO manufacturer Mattel, behind iconic brands Barbie and Hot Wheels, is aware the new rules might confuse some, but that’s largely the point.
Paul Faulkner, Senior Vice President and Managing Director of Mattel Asia Pacific, suggested the additions would encourage further chaos among competitive Aussie playing groups.
“Australians have always had a knack for putting their own spin on UNO and we’re leaning into that. Whether it’s inventing house rules or passionately debating if you’re actually allowed to play that Draw Four, the game has been bringing friends and families together for generations,” he said.
“Partnering with Mulga gave us the chance to deliver a very Australian take on UNO.
“By combining his unmistakable artwork, with gameplay using some of Australia’s most Australian phrases, we’ve created a deck that captures a distinctly Aussie sense of humour while keeping the friendly rivalry, playful banter and fun that’s always been part of UNO.”
The UNO Artiste x Mulga limited edition is now available for purchase from Mattel Creations, Amazon, and select retailers, with an RRP of $39.99.
