Hip-Hop Card Game University of Dope Brings Beats and Bonding

The journey of University of Dope began with a casual question about the Wu-Tang Clan.

In celebration of hip-hop’s 50th anniversary, a groundbreaking card game has hit the scene, transforming lively debates about spades into heated discussions on the best Kanye album.

Meet “University of Dope,” the brainchild of hip-hop enthusiasts A.V. “$upreme” Perkins and Marian “Skinni Bee” Andoh-Clark, whose friendship goes back to 2004 when they attended Central Connecticut State University. Their game invites players to dive deep into the realms of hip-hop culture.

The journey of University of Dope began with a casual question about the Wu-Tang Clan. Perkins asked Andoh-Clark if she could name all the members of the iconic group, sparking the idea for a game. Surprisingly, a search for a Wu-Tang drinking game came up empty, prompting the duo to create their own. The result is a B-Boy/B-Girl’s dream come true–and it’s now sold in Target.

University of Dope revolves around hip-hop culture and requires a minimum of three players. Participants take turns drawing cards, answering questions that spark heated discussions. For example: “Erase one person from hip-hop history: A. Swizz Beatz; B. Dr. Dre; C. Pharrell; D. Timbaland.” There is no right or wrong answer.

While sipping on your favorite beverage enhances the experience, the game offers flexibility. Players can choose “Thug Life” mode, where questions are answered for shots or drinks, or “Big Willie Style,” where points are earned without drinking.

Passionate discussions and controversial choices are at the heart of University of Dope. Players have reported bringing the game to first dates. Perkins acknowledges the game’s ability to ignite passion., “We look forward to the first U Dope wedding or divorce party.”

In a conversation with Perkins, The Root delved into her personal list of top five MCs. She emphasized her preference for delivery and shared her top five: Notorious B.I.G., Jadakiss, Lil’ Kim, Method/the Wu-Tang, and Drake. Perkins defended Drake’s inclusion, highlighting his decade-long impact and dismissing critics.

“I think with Drake, we just lost the concept of time. Biggie only has two albums, and Drake has been performing hits half of Biggie’s life,” Perkins said. “I think people disregard him because he makes songs for women. He’s like a more up-to-date L.L. Cool J.”

The game’s “organic origins,” rooted in the friendship of Perkins and Andoh-Clark, showcase the power of authentic connections in a community. Perkins advises entrepreneurs to build genuine relationships and embrace confidence, essential elements in contributing to future success.

“I feel like with networking, you really have to build a friendship and relationship with people,” Perkins told MadameNoire. “When you go through life and you meet like-minded people, there will be a point in time that opportunity can present itself. And as long as you keep doing what you have to do to stay at the top of someone’s mind, they will circle back.”