During Hispanic Heritage Month families across the United States are discovering a fresh way to gather around the table: a bilingual edition of the classic Lotería game. Launched in March 2026, the new set offers card names, riddles and instructions in both English and Spanish, making the beloved tradition accessible to households where parents and children speak different languages.
Family‑focused design
DreamStar Studios, led by New York‑born developer Geoffrey Gray, partnered with the Landín family—longtime stewards of the Don Clemente Lotería brand—to create a version that respects the game’s history while inviting new players. Gray, who now lives in Mexico with his family, says Lotería “was the most incredible way to get my family together” after dinner on a Saturday in pajamas.
Landín echoes that sentiment, noting how the game has long been a staple at family gatherings, schools, churches, fairs and celebrations on both sides of the border. “It’s an integration of traditions and integration of family,” he said.
What’s new?
The bilingual edition keeps the familiar artwork but adds English translations alongside the traditional Spanish names. Each card also features a bilingual riddle on the back and a guidebook with tips and strategies in both languages. Card markers are made from frijol‑shaped cardboard, a nod to the beans traditionally used in the game.
Some artwork received subtle updates to better suit younger players. For example, the card formerly known as “El Borracho” now appears as “El Tanto” (The Fool), and “El Negrito” has been changed to “El Bailarín” (The Dancer). The graphic of a knife on “El Valiente” no longer shows blood, a deliberate choice to emphasize courage rather than violence.
Preserving heritage while embracing change
Gray and Landín emphasized that the goal was to “grow the table,” bringing together people of different languages, ages and cultural backgrounds without erasing the game’s identity. The changes were made after conversations about how to make the edition welcoming to families who might feel left out because they do not speak Spanish fluently.
“Play is really the language,” Gray said. “Play is the fundamental language that we all share.” The bilingual set aims to bridge the gap for children who are more comfortable speaking English at home, allowing them to participate fully in a tradition their grandparents cherish.
Availability and future plans
The new Lotería edition is now sold at major U.S. retailers, including Walmart, as well as at bookstores, specialty game stores and online outlets. The creators say this release is just the first step toward a series of products marking Lotería’s 140th anniversary in 2027, including limited‑edition cards, varied price‑point options and live events designed to bring communities together.
For families seeking a way to celebrate heritage while fostering unity across generations, the bilingual Lotería offers a simple, joyful solution: gather around the table, call out the familiar cards, and keep culture alive through shared play.
Original reporting: Dallas TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
