big potato games
In the vibrant world of board games, Big Potato Games stands out as a beacon of creativity and accessibility. Founded in 2014 by three friends in London, this indie game publisher has redefined party games with a mission to deliver quick, inclusive, and endlessly entertaining experiences. From big potato games their debut title to a catalog of over 100 games, Big Potato has grown into a global sensation, available in 50 countries and celebrated for its innovative approach. This article explores the origins, philosophy, standout titles, and cultural impact of Big Potato Games, showcasing why they’re a staple for game nights everywhere.
Origins and Growth
Big Potato Games began when Dean Tempest, Ben Drummond, and Tristan Hyatt-Williams left their advertising careers to pursue a shared passion for games. Their first creation, Linkee, a trivia game connecting answers to a theme, gained traction after a bold pitch on BBC’s Dragons’ Den. Despite declining a £50,000 offer, the trio launched Big Potato in 2014, starting with Bucket of Doom, a quirky storytelling game funded via Kickstarter. Its success laid the foundation for a company that now employs 45 people and operates from a Shoreditch penthouse.
The company’s growth is marked by milestones like moving to larger offices, adopting a four-day workweek, and earning B Corp Certification in 2023 with a score of 99.5, reflecting their commitment to social and environmental impact. Collaborations with brands like USPS and Aardman Animations have expanded their reach, while their innovative MOOP® technology transforms reclaimed ocean plastic into game cards, blending fun with sustainability.
Philosophy and Game Design
Big Potato’s mantra is simple:big potato games create games that are “easy to learn, quick to play, and hard to put down.” This philosophy ensures accessibility for all, from seasoned board gamers to newcomers. Their games adhere to three golden rules: simplicity, inclusivity, and engagement, making them ideal for family game nights, parties, or casual gatherings. Most titles last under 30 minutes, encouraging rematches and lively interaction.
Their game development process, led by Head of Game Development James Vaughan, is hands-on and iterative. Ideas come from in-house teams and external inventors, with 30% of games sourced from first-time creators. A dedicated team of “tato testers” provides feedback to refine mechanics and ensure crowd-pleasing results. Recent hires like Ed Naujokas, designer of What Next?, have bolstered in-house innovation, reducing reliance on external submissions.
Standout Titles
Big Potato’s catalog spans quiz games, drawing games, dexterity games, and more, each infused with humor and creativity. Here are some fan-favorite titles:
- The Chameleon: A social deduction game where players blend in while spotting the secret “chameleon.” Praised as an improvement on Spyfall, it’s a hit for groups of five or more.
- Scrawl: A hilarious mix of Pictionary and Chinese Whispers, where drawings and guesses spiral into absurd outcomes, like “Pet Rock” becoming “Hula Hooping in a Metal Detector.” It thrives on creative chaos.
- Don’t Get Got: A unique party game played in the background, where players complete secret missions over hours or days, perfect for extended gatherings.
- Chicken vs Hotdog: A dexterity game inspired by bottle-flipping, where players flick pieces to land correctly, balancing skill and silliness.
- USPS: The Great American Mail Race: A strategy game where players compete as mail carriers, using 13 USPS transportation methods. Its nostalgic charm and licensed design resonate with American audiences.
These games, available at retailers like Target and Waterstones, showcase Big Potato’s knack for blending familiar mechanics with fresh twists.
Cultural and Social Impact
Big Potato Games has left a significant mark on tabletop gaming culture. Their games are a fixture in supermarkets, bookstores, and game stores, with viral social media videos amplifying their reach—even earning a shout-out from Nick Jonas. Their B Corp status and eco-friendly initiatives, like MOOP® cards, appeal to socially conscious consumers, while their four-day workweek sets a progressive example in the industry.
The company fosters community through events like Gen Con, where fans play games like USPS: The Great American Mail Race and engage in interactive booths. Their Big Inventor Challenge brings games to schools, inspiring young creators, while Hosted Game Nights at festivals and workplaces spread joy. Online, fans on Reddit and Trustpilot rave about titles like Chameleon and exceptional customer service, such as sending entire replacement games for damaged cards.
Challenges and Future Outlook
Despite their success, Big Potato faces challenges like scaling production sustainably and competing with digital gaming platforms. Their Big Screen Games, a browser-based competitor to Jackbox, shows promise but requires overcoming login friction to rival established platforms. Expanding language options could further global reach, as fans note Jackbox’s American-centric limitations.
Looking ahead, Big Potato plans to innovate with licensed games, digital integrations, and new genres. Their commitment to playtesting and fan feedback ensures games remain engaging. As they grow, balancing indie charm with global demand will be key.
Conclusion
Big Potato Games has transformed party games into accessible, laughter-filled experiences that unite players worldwide. From Linkee’s humble beginnings to B Corp certification, their journey reflects passion, innovation, and a commitment to fun. With titles like The Chameleon and Scrawl, they’ve mastered the art of quick, inclusive gameplay. As they continue to sprout new ideas, Big Potato remains a deliciously entertaining force in tabletop gaming, proving that a little potato can pack a big punch.
