Image courtesy: Shawn Bourassa
A man from Saskatoon is merging his passion for card games with a unique twist—his new game, “Youlogy,” takes players on a humorous journey to the afterlife. Shawn Bourassa, the creator of this innovative game, describes it as a blend of "Cards Against Humanity," "Mad Libs," and a funeral service.
The idea for "Youlogy" stems from Bourassa’s experiences growing up in a competitive family, his wife’s enthusiasm for Halloween, and his time working as a registered nurse. He noted, "Being a nurse, you are closer to some of the sad parts of life, so I get used to it. I’ve developed a pretty dark sense of humor as a defense mechanism." This mix of influences has led to a game that not only entertains but also allows players to explore life and death in a light-hearted manner.
Bourassa initially thought of the game years ago, but it truly took shape during the pandemic when he found himself looking for creative outlets. "When the pandemic hit, I really went stir crazy, so I thought I had to put this down on paper for my friends and family," he shared. The lockdown provided him the perfect opportunity to transform his idea into a fun-filled game that could bring joy and laughter to others.
A card from "Youlogy," a humorous and slightly dark card game created by Shawn Bourassa. CTV
The gameplay is both engaging and interactive. It begins with players selecting a character card from a deck. Afterward, players write down name suggestions for their character, and a judge picks the best one. The game then follows the character through various life stages, from birth to death. Each life stage includes a prompt that players fill in, with the judge awarding points based on the best responses. This structure allows for creativity and humor, as players craft funny and imaginative stories about their characters.
As the game progresses, the judge rotates, ensuring that everyone gets a chance to influence the game. In the final round, the character meets their demise. The player who has accumulated the most points then selects someone to deliver a three-minute eulogy for the character, providing a fittingly funny and reflective end to the game.
Image courtesy: Shawn Bourassa
To promote "Youlogy," Bourassa has taken an unconventional approach by purchasing a 1978 Cadillac Deville hearse. He explains, "Getting eyes on your project is actually quite expensive. I went on marketplace and I found some guy selling a hearse here in Saskatoon, and then my cousin got it all decaled up." This eye-catching vehicle has helped draw attention to his game, making it memorable for those who see it.
As "Youlogy" gains traction, Bourassa hopes to share his unique blend of humor and life reflection with a wider audience. He believes that card games can create connections and bring people together, especially when they encourage laughter even in the face of life's more serious moments.
