Memento Mori: Genesis

Designed by Adrian Valenzuela, a 3D artist and graphic designer, the “Memento Mori: Genesis” deck is a technical evolution follow-up edition of his original low-poly classic. This version transforms the once-flat geometric shapes into fully 3D-rendered, glass-like structures. Manufactured by the United States Playing Card Company for Murphy’s Magic, the deck consists of 52 cards including two Jokers plus a front card displaying the edition name, “Genesis.”

The artwork reinterprets typical American poker patterns and pips into intricate 3D glass figures that catch digital light. These court figures resemble crystallized faceless people, giving the deck a distinctly eerie and modern atmosphere. The Jokers feature a skull, a serpent, and an apple, evoking the Book of Genesis narrative of temptation and the loss of innocence, central to the memento mori theme. The Ace of Spades is also noticeably larger than the other aces. The card backs feature two mirrored skulls on a white background, creating a clean, minimalist feeling with ample white space. The packaging remains minimalist, showing only the iconic skull without text, meaning the deck's identity is only revealed once the title card is seen. With its premium stock and signature USPCC coating, it offers the exceptional handling required for professional magic and cardistry.

Above: “Memento Mori: Genesis” playing cards designed by Adrian Valenzuela and produced by United States Playing Card Company (USPCC) for Murphy’s Magic, 2021.

Author’s Note

I received this deck as a gift when I was in Spain in January from the Reyes Magos (the Three Kings), who clearly knew about my passion for playing cards! Because the packaging is so mysterious and lacks any writing, opening it felt like uncovering a hidden treasure.

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