A local game creator has taken a stab at the indie card game scene—literally. Don’t Get Stabbed was developed by Jordan McLaughlin, a Columbus resident whose passion for horror movies has led to a thrilling, laugh-out-loud game perfect for parties and casual game nights
Don’t Get Stabbed brings together classic horror movie tropes with fast-paced laughs in a perfect blend of humor and horror. One player is the Killer. The rest play as Victims. Victims take turns drawing cards and trying to avoid being “stabbed” by the game's slasher, all while building alliances, plotting escapes, and trying to survive the night. The Killer tries to kill all the victims by “stabbing” them three times.
The idea for Don’t Get Stabbed first sparked during a casual game night in 2018 when McLaughlin’s cousin suggested he create his own card game. He started working on the game the very next day. McLaughlin spent weeks going to the local library after work to teach himself how to illustrate the game. “I didn’t have money to hire an artist, so I knew I had to figure this out for myself.” Said McLaughlin.
After months of sketching out ideas and playtesting, the game was launched on Kickstarter, where it quickly gained traction. After a successful campaign and holiday season, McLaughlin decided it was time to leave his marketing job to focus on building a career in game design.
“It was a huge leap of faith, but the support from both the local community and online backers has been incredible,” McLaughlin shared. “I never expected something that started as a fun, silly idea could turn into a full-fledged business.”
Since starting his career in game design, McLaughlin has created 6 other games, including Nuns with Nunchucks, The Unseen, Oh Nutz, and Portal Potties. “I wanted to make a game for everyone. No matter who you are, there’s probably a game that will appeal to you.”
But Don’t Get Stabbed continues to be the cornerstone of McLaughlin’s business. “Every year it gets bigger and bigger.” McLaughlin said. Don't Get Stabbed has been featured on Oprah Daily, Smosh Games, Yahoo, and more. It was even played in the house from the original Scream movie, which inspired a lot of the game.
Whether you’re a horror fan or just looking for a fun, engaging card game to enjoy with friends, Don't Get Stabbed offers an experience sure to make your next game night killer.
For more information or to purchase the game, visit Amazon.com, Rookiemage.com, Fear Columbus, or your local game store.
