Imaginator: A Game of Imagination and Growth

Designed by Neringa Orlenok, Imaginator Cards Spark Creativity and Deep Conversations

Imaginator, a unique game designed by Neringa Orlenok, is a deck of 50 abstract, colorful cards that inspire imagination and growth. Each card features a unique design and a question that encourages deep thinking and conversation. The game, which won the Silver A' Toys, Games and Hobby Products Design Award in 2022, is a testament to the power of creativity and the human mind's capacity for abstract thought.

The inspiration for Imaginator came from a perceived lack of abstract visual games that are both understandable for children and intriguing for adults. The graphic compositions on the cards are dreamy and unique, created consistently by adding figures that vary in meaning and message. This principle triggers different associations unique to each player, making the game a unique experience for everyone.

Each card in the Imaginator deck includes a question centered on imagination and growth. These questions are designed to inspire laughter, thought, wonder, and dreams. The cards, which were sketched on paper before being redrawn digitally and prepared for high-quality printing, represent our inner world of dreams, experiences, stories, and ideas.

The game is designed for flexibility and creativity. Players are free to create their own rules and take their time in answering the questions. The aim is not to rush but to allow the imagination to "kick in". The game encourages players to challenge their first associations and see things from different perspectives. For instance, if a player first sees a dolphin breaking waves in an image, can they then see a flower bud?

The design process for Imaginator was a journey of exploration and refinement. The biggest challenge was creating and perfecting 50 unique cards, each with its own distinct illustration. The final product, produced in Vilnius, Lithuania, between January and July 2021, is a testament to the power of imagination and the joy of play.

In conclusion, Imaginator is more than just a game. It's a tool for sparking creativity, fostering a growth mindset, and encouraging deep, meaningful conversations. Whether used as an educational toy for children or a thought-provoking game for adults, Imaginator offers a unique, engaging experience that challenges players to see the world in new and exciting ways.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Neringa Orlenok
Image Credits: Image #1-5: Photographer Karolis Milaševičius
Project Team Members: Designer: Neringa Orlenok Product Developer: Vita Markevičiūtė
Project Name: Imaginator
Project Client: Neringa Orlenok


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