Cosmic Eidex Jasscards

Cosmic Eidex is a creative variant of the traditional Jass card game, developed in 1998 by Swiss game designer Urs Hostettler, with illustrations by Res Brandenberger and editorial work by Benno Hugentobler. It is based on the classic 36-card Jass deck used in Switzerland and parts of Austria, but replaces the traditional with four new symbolic suits: Lizard (green), Raven (black), Star (yellow), Heart (red).

While the core structure of the Jass deck remains intact, nine cards per suit, four suits, the visual language of Cosmic Eidex is entirely original. Each card in Cosmic Eidex is individually illustrated and given its own name, which typically reflects its unique ability in the game. The numerical value of each card is shown inside the suit symbol, and unlike standard Jass, every card has a unique in-game ability, introducing strategic asymmetry and a layer of complexity that departs from traditional gameplay.

Cosmic Eidex is designed for three players, unlike most Jass variants which are played with four. The game is published by Fata Morgana Spiele, with Abacusspiele acting as distribution partner. Since its release, annual Cosmic Eidex tournaments have been organized by Fata Morgana, contributing to the game’s niche but enduring popularity. While the title and some of the imagery reference cosmic themes, many of the designs incorporate broader modern and metaphorical subjects, making the deck a hybrid of social commentary, visual experimentation, and traditional Swiss card culture.

Above: Cosmic Eidex Jasscards with illustrations by Res Brandenberger, published by Fata Morgana Spiele / Abacusspiele, 1998. 36 cards.