As mentioned before, UNO is the best-selling card game in the world. Estimates suggest that 80% of American game-playing households own the game (Ricketts, 2022). UNO also has 99% brand awareness (BM Srl, 2021). It is safe to say that almost all Americans have heard of, or played, UNO. This is a remarkable achievement, as the game is over fifty years old. Factors contributing to the success of UNO are its simplicity, family appeal, and inexpensiveness. No matter what language players speak, they can engage with the numbers and symbols on the cards. The rules and goals of the game are also straightforward: match either the colour or number of the card played before you, or play one of your trick cards to escape.
This simplicity links to the second factor in UNO’s success: it is a game for all ages. Children can understand its simple rules and play along with, or even beat, adults. The game stays fun for adults because of elements of the game based on luck and its fast-paced nature. Unlike other games like Monopoly or Poker, this game can be enjoyed by the entire family. The third success factor of UNO is its relative inexpensiveness compared to other card and board games. The retail price of the standard original deck of UNO cards is only $6.49. Keeping the price low, UNO is an easy, fun, and cheap option for a family game night.