Tarot decks are wonderful, and versatile. They lend themselves to all sorts of reinvention, for better or worse. Today’s deck is for the better because it takes the mythic, fantasy setting of “The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim” (an insanely popular video game) and meshes it nicely with the mythic, traditional tarot.
“The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Tarot Deck and Guidebook” was written by Tori Schafer, who is a writer and narrative designer for video games, and has worked on titles such as “Elder Scrolls Online” and has practiced tarot since childhood. The tarot and “Skyrim” enthusiast could not ask for a better creator. Schafer’s obvious knowledge of tarot and attention to the source material provided by “Skyrim” has created a deck that requires little acclimation for the experienced tarot reader. The Minor Arcana Suits of Wands, Coins, Swords, and Cups become Spells, Lockpicks, Arms, and Voice and the Major Arcana keep traditional names while being represented by a who’s who of Skyrim.
Obviously, it is important for a tarot deck such as this to be well thought out, but if the artwork doesn’t do justice to the game, and the grand tradition of excellent tarot artwork, the deck is worthless. Fortunately, it was Erika Hollice’s artwork that first caught my eye, before I even realized I was looking at a deck based on a game I personally love. Hollice’s art deco, graphic, fantasy style translates wonderfully to the card. The only complaint that I have is in Insight Editions attempt to have the cards be matte, the cards tend to stick together, making for difficult shuffling.
“The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Tarot” by Tori Schafer and Erika Hollice is an excellent example of how wonderful a themed tarot deck can be.
You can learn more here.
Get your own copy here. (This is an affiliate link to my Bookshop, which supports independent bookstores throughout the United States. If you use this link to purchase the book, I will make a small commission at no additional cost to you.)
If you’re a Skyrim fan, like myself, I can’t help but bring these two very different interpretations of the dragon Alduin. One noble in gold……
You can get your own here. (This is an affiliate link to Entertainment Earth. If you make a purchase using this link, I make a small commission at no additional cost to you.)
The other an adorable rubber ducky.
Which you can get here.(This is an affiliate link to Entertainment Earth. If you make a purchase using this link, I make a small commission at no additional cost to you.)
Do you enjoy The Magical Buffet? Considering supporting The Magical Buffet on Patreon! For only $5 a month you’ll receive monthly tarot/oracle forecasts, classes, and behind the scenes updates! Https://www.patreon.com/magicalbuffet