Cards Against Humanity's Black Friday Prank: A Tradition of Subversive Humor
Every year, on the day after Thanksgiving, retail stores roll out their Black Friday sales, kicking off the holiday shopping season. Among the discounted TVs and toys, one name stands out for its unique approach to the day: Cards Against Humanity. The popular party game company has made a tradition out of pulling off elaborate pranks on Black Friday, much to the delight of their fans and the bewilderment of the general public.
Understanding Cards Against Humanity's Black Friday Prank History
Cards Against Humanity, known for its crude and offensive humor, launched its first Black Friday prank in 2015. The company replaced its entire website with a countdown clock, leading fans to believe they were about to unveil a new expansion pack. Instead, when the clock struck zero, the site displayed a message from the company's co-creators, claiming they had sold the company to a group of venture capitalists. The prank, titled "Cards Against Humanity Saves America," was a commentary on the commercialization of the holiday and the corporate takeover of independent businesses.
2016: The Holiday Hole
In 2016, Cards Against Humanity dug a giant hole in a field in Illinois, filling it with nothing but bull crap. They sold the opportunity to buy a box of bull crap for $6, with all proceeds going to charity. The prank, titled "Cards Against Humanity's Holiday Hole," was a poke at the absurdity of Black Friday consumerism and the idea of buying things just for the sake of it.
2017: The 99% Sale
In 2017, Cards Against Humanity offered a 99% discount on their game, reducing the price to just $4. However, there was a catch. The company had to make a profit, so they added a $5 shipping fee, making the total cost $9. The prank, titled "99% Off Sale," was a commentary on the deceptive pricing tactics used by retailers during Black Friday.
Why Cards Against Humanity's Black Friday Pranks Matter
Cards Against Humanity's Black Friday pranks are more than just jokes. They serve as a critique of consumer culture and the commercialization of holidays. By using their platform to challenge the status quo, the company encourages its fans to question the messages they receive about what's important during the holiday season.
Inspiring a Culture of Critique
Moreover, the company's pranks have inspired other businesses to think critically about their role in the holiday shopping frenzy. Some companies have started to offer alternative promotions, such as donating a portion of their sales to charity or encouraging customers to take a break from shopping and spend time with loved ones.
What to Expect from Cards Against Humanity in the Future
As Cards Against Humanity continues to grow, it's likely that their Black Friday pranks will become even more elaborate and thought-provoking. The company has shown a commitment to using their platform to challenge the norms of society and encourage their fans to think critically about the world around them. Whether they're digging holes in fields or selling boxes of bull crap, Cards Against Humanity's Black Friday pranks are a testament to the power of subversive humor and the importance of questioning the status quo.
