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Exploding Kittens

Develops and markets quirky card games.

Overview

Exploding Kittens designs and sells card games and puzzles for casual players and board game fans. Their games use simple rules and interactive play where players draw and play cards to avoid risks or reach a goal, often with humorous art and themes. The company stands out after raising $8.7 million on Kickstarter from 219,000 backers, building a large, engaged fan base and extending its brand with promotions and a Netflix series. Its goal is to entertain a broad audience with easy-to-learn games and grow the brand through partnerships and media exposure.

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About Exploding Kittens

Simplify's Rating
Why Exploding Kittens is rated
B-
Rated B on Competitive Edge
Rated B on Growth Potential
Rated C on Differentiation

Industries

EntertainmentGaming

Company Size

51-200

Company Stage

Late Stage VC

Total Funding

$81.5M

Headquarters

Los Angeles, CA

Founded

2014

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Simplify's take

What believers are saying

  • June 30, 2026 launched ten new titles, expanding revenue drivers across channels.
  • Barnes & Noble named Rage Mode its 2026 Party Game of the Year.
  • September 17, 2026 leadership shift aims to turn Exploding Kittens into an evergreen brand.

What critics are saying

  • Asmodee's full buyout on May 6, 2026 removed strategic independence entirely.
  • Walmart and Target exclusives commoditize shelf space, squeezing pricing power and retailer leverage.
  • If Rage Mode fades, Exploding Kittens loses its only truly iconic evergreen franchise.

What makes Exploding Kittens unique

  • Exploding Kittens owns a recognizable, decade-old IP built from Kickstarter virality in 2015.
  • Asmodee completed 100% ownership on May 6, 2026, strengthening global distribution leverage.
  • Its party-game format travels across cards, board games, and licensed entertainment formats.

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Funding

Total Funding

$81.5M

Above

Industry Average

Funded Over

4 Rounds

Late VC funding comparison data is currently unavailable. We're working to provide this information soon!
Late VC Funding Comparison Coming Soon

Company News

WPGX Fox 28
Jun 30th, 2026
Exploding Kittens unleashes 10 new games this summer.

Exploding Kittens unleashes 10 new games this summer. * 1 hr ago LOS ANGELES, June 30, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) - Summer 2026 just got more competitive thanks to Exploding Kittens, a leading game developer and entertainment company reshaping traditional game night, who will launch 10 new games throughout July and August 2026. From party games and family-friendly competition to travel-ready card games, the new releases build on the brand's award-winning portfolio of games designed to bring people together through giggle-inducing moments and chaotic play. "Adrenaline-inducing card games, kid-friendly competition and even flying boba are just some of what Exploding Kittens fans can expect from these new releases hitting shelves this summer," said Carly McGinnis, CEO of Exploding Kittens. "More than a decade after launching our first game, this summer's lineup ultimately brings together everything we love about game design combining easy-to-learn gameplay with our signature Exploding Kittens mischief that keeps players coming back." This summer, Exploding Kittens will introduce: * Exploding Kittens: Rage Mode (Available on July 19 at Target, Walmart, Amazon, and Barnes & Noble MSRP: $19.99) - The most aggressive and cutthroat version of Exploding Kittens yet. * 9 Lives (Available on July 19 at Target, Walmart, and Amazon, MSRP: $9.99) - A fast-paced card game filled with sabotage, strategy, and high-stakes tension. * Cat Condo Cornhole (Available August 22 in store and online July 25, Walmart Exclusive, MSRP: $19.99) - A feline-inspired twist on classic cornhole with unpredictable challenges. * Sell Me A Sasquatch (Available on July 19 at Target, Walmart, Amazon and Barnes & Noble, MSRP: $19.99) - A strategic bluffing game developed in collaboration with NPR's Planet Money. * Dead Therapist (Available August 22 in store and online July 25, Walmart Exclusive, MSRP: $24.99) - A darkly comedic murder mystery experience featuring original art from The Oatmeal. * I Suck At Drawing (Available on July 19 at Target and Amazon, MSRP: $19.99) - A hilarious drawing game where the artist can't see what they're creating. * Exploding Kittens Curse You! (Available on July 19, Target Exclusive, MSRP: $19.99) - A new evolving gameplay experience featuring Charms, Curses, and sealed expansion packs. * Berry Cherry Parrot Punch (Available on July 19, Target Exclusive, MSRP: $9.99) - A rapid-fire speed shouting game built for quick laughs and friendly competition. * Boba Blast (Available on July 19 at Target and Amazon, MSRP: $19.99) - A skill-based party game where players flip boba into cups for victory. * Flat Earth The Game (Available on August 22, Walmart Exclusive, MSRP: $19.99) - A balancing challenge that tests dexterity, nerve, and sabotage skills. The lineup of new releases reflects Exploding Kittens' continued focus on creating inventive tabletop experiences built for connection and shared play. Since its debut, the company has grown into a global gaming phenomenon, with a portfolio spanning family, party, and strategy games enjoyed by millions of players worldwide. The new games will be available beginning July 2026 at Exploding Kittens, Amazon, Target, Walmart, Barnes & Noble, and select retailers nationwide, with certain titles launching as retailer exclusives. About Exploding Kittens Exploding Kittens is a game company that creates unforgettable play experiences designed to bring people together. Known for its distinctive voice and bold creativity, the brand builds games that encourage connection, discovery, and shared moments of chaos. Since its debut, Exploding Kittens has become a global phenomenon, with games enjoyed by millions of players worldwide. Explore the full lineup of games, visit www.explodingkittens.com. Games are available for purchase directly through the website, on Amazon, and at select retailers nationwide. Media Contact: Emma Bruni

Nasdaq
Dec 22nd, 2025
Asmodee acquires remaining 45% stake in Exploding Kittens

Asmodee, a global tabletop entertainment leader, has exercised its call option to acquire the remaining 45% minority stake in Exploding Kittens Inc. The company initially acquired a 55% majority stake in the US-based publisher in December 2021. The purchase price for the minority stake will be determined based on Exploding Kittens' operational performance for the full year 2025. The transaction is expected to close during the first half of 2026. Exploding Kittens is already consolidated within the Asmodee group. The acquisition aligns with Asmodee's previously communicated intentions regarding the minority stake.

Cerebral Overload
Jul 23rd, 2025
10 Years of Mayhem: Exploding Kittens Launches First-Ever Board Game

Exploding Kittens, a leading gaming and entertainment company, today launched Exploding Kittens: The Board Game, the company's first-ever board game to celebrate its 10th anniversary this year.

Business Wire
Mar 21st, 2025
Exploding Kittens Partners with Tim Ferriss to Launch New Game 'Coyote'

LOS ANGELES-(BUSINESS WIRE)-Exploding Kittens, a leading gaming and entertainment company, has teamed up with bestselling author, investor, and entrepreneur Tim Ferriss to launch Coyote, a fast-paced, laugh-out-loud game.

NBC Bay Area
Jan 19th, 2025
Exploding Kittens Secures $40M Investment

Exploding Kittens, a popular card game, has secured a $40 million investment from Peter Chernin's group, despite its initial success on Kickstarter. The investment aims to expand the brand into franchises like TV shows and movies, similar to Angry Birds. The funds remain unused as the company explores options like going public or acquiring other companies. Co-founder Elan Lee emphasizes the partnership's flexibility and the potential for growth beyond just games.

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