What Do You Meme? – An Entertaining Blend of Humor and Social Media Culture
"What Do You Meme?" is a popular party card game that combines humor and creativity, designed to entertain groups of friends or family. Created by Elliot Tebele and Ben Kaplan, the game revolves around players competing to create the funniest memes by pairing caption cards with a rotating selection of photo cards, typically featuring well-known internet memes. Each round, a designated judge selects the funniest combination, and the player with the most winning memes at the end of the game is declared the winner. Known for its simple yet engaging gameplay, "What Do You Meme?" has gained a wide following for its ability to generate laughter and encourage social interaction, making it a staple at gatherings and parties.
Board games have long been a staple of family gatherings, friendly get-togethers, and casual parties. In recent years, the landscape of tabletop gaming has evolved, incorporating elements of contemporary culture and humor in innovative ways. One such game that has captured the essence of modern social media humor is "What Do You Meme?" This game, designed by Elliot Tebele and Ben Kaplan, has quickly become a favorite among millennials and Gen Z, thanks to its clever integration of internet memes and witty captions. In this review, we’ll delve into the mechanics, appeal, and potential drawbacks of "What Do You Meme?" to provide a comprehensive look at why it might be the perfect addition to your next game night.
Game Mechanics and Setup
The premise of "What Do You Meme?" is straightforward and easy to grasp, making it accessible even for those who may not be avid gamers. The game comes with a deck of 75 photo cards, which feature popular internet memes, and a deck of 360 caption cards. At the beginning of each round, one player acts as the judge and draws a photo card, placing it in a visible spot for all players to see. The other players then select one of their caption cards that they believe pairs best with the photo card. The judge reads all the caption submissions aloud and selects the funniest or most fitting combination. The player whose caption is chosen wins the round and earns a point. The role of the judge rotates each round, ensuring that everyone gets a chance to evaluate the humor of their fellow players.
Appeal and Audience
One of the primary reasons "What Do You Meme?" has gained popularity is its resonance with the digital age. Memes are a ubiquitous part of internet culture, often serving as a form of communication, satire, and entertainment. By leveraging this cultural phenomenon, the game appeals to a demographic that is deeply immersed in social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Reddit. The humor in "What Do You Meme?" is often irreverent, edgy, and highly relatable, making it a hit among younger audiences who appreciate the nuances of meme culture.
The game’s simplicity also adds to its charm. Unlike more complex board games that require extensive rule explanations and strategizing, "What Do You Meme?" can be picked up and played within minutes. This makes it an ideal choice for casual gatherings where the goal is to have a good laugh without a steep learning curve. Additionally, the rotating judge mechanism ensures that gameplay remains dynamic and engaging, as players get to experience different perspectives on humor.
Expansion Packs and Customization
To keep the game fresh and exciting, "What Do You Meme?" offers several expansion packs that introduce new photo and caption cards. These expansions often tap into the latest trends and viral sensations, ensuring that the game stays relevant and up-to-date with the ever-evolving meme landscape. Some popular expansions include the "Basic Bitch Pack," "Stoner Pack," and "Fresh Memes Expansion Pack 2." These add-ons provide additional layers of humor and variety, allowing players to customize their gaming experience based on their interests and preferences.
Moreover, the game’s flexibility encourages creativity and customization. Players can create their own caption cards or incorporate inside jokes, making the gameplay even more personalized and enjoyable. This aspect of customization adds a layer of intimacy and connection, as players can tailor the game to reflect their unique sense of humor and shared experiences.
Potential Drawbacks
While "What Do You Meme?" offers a wealth of humor and entertainment, it is not without its drawbacks. The game’s reliance on internet culture and memes means that it may not resonate with all audiences, particularly those who are less familiar with or enthusiastic about social media trends. Older generations or individuals who are not as engaged with meme culture may find the humor less accessible or enjoyable.
Additionally, the game’s content can sometimes be controversial or inappropriate for certain settings. Many of the captions and photos are designed to be edgy and provocative, which may not be suitable for family gatherings or more conservative groups. It’s important for players to consider the audience and context when choosing to play "What Do You Meme?" to ensure that everyone involved is comfortable and able to enjoy the experience.
Conclusion
"What Do You Meme?" is a testament to the evolving nature of tabletop gaming, successfully blending traditional card game mechanics with contemporary internet culture. Its appeal lies in its simplicity, relatability, and the endless potential for humor. While it may not be suitable for all audiences or settings, it undoubtedly shines as a party game for those who appreciate the witty, irreverent, and often absurd world of memes. Whether you’re looking to break the ice at a social gathering or simply share a good laugh with friends, "What Do You Meme?" is a game that delivers on its promise of fun and laughter.
