Bhayem is a modern reinvention of a beloved traditional Tunisian card game, brought to life through thoughtful design and cultural storytelling. Rooted in nostalgia yet designed for today’s players, Bhayem celebrates Tunisia’s rich gaming heritage while making it accessible and enjoyable for new generations.
Reviving a Cultural Classic
Growing up in Tunisia, card games like Bhayem were more than just entertainment—they were a social ritual, a way for families and friends to connect. With this project, my goal was to preserve that spirit while updating the gameplay and visual style for today’s board game enthusiasts, especially those in the diaspora.
Bhayem blends tradition with modernity through:
Original hand-drawn illustrations that reflect Tunisian characters and everyday life
Simplified rules that retain the core of the classic game while making it easy to learn and fast to play
Portable packaging, designed for casual play at home, in cafés, or while traveling
Family-friendly gameplay, ideal for both adults and children
Designed for the Diaspora
Bhayem is more than just a game—it’s a piece of home. Special attention was given to players in the Tunisian diaspora, especially in France, who want to reconnect with their roots and share cultural experiences with their children or friends. It offers a fun and meaningful way to practice Tunisian Arabic and keep traditions alive across borders.
My Role
As the game’s creator, I led every stage of development:
Game design & prototyping: Reconstructed the gameplay mechanics based on traditional Bhayem rules
Artwork direction: Oversaw illustration and graphic design in collaboration with artists
Production & packaging: Managed the printing process and packaging logistics
User testing: Conducted multiple playtests with Tunisian families and board game enthusiasts
Marketing & storytelling: Created content to share the cultural narrative behind the game
Bhayem is part of a broader vision to create original Tunisian board and card games that entertain, educate, and preserve cultural identity.