Review: Gemaco Sextant Playing Cards

Gemaco Sextant are the product of a "reformulation" by the Gemaco company. What this really means is they are a different and probably lower standard when compared to their front runner, the Gemaco Star. They do initially appear to be like a discount plastic playing card material but play much better. This doesn't mean these are bad cards. They are slightly less expensive then the Stars but still in the same price range as all the rest. The first thing you'll notice compared to the rest of the cards reviewed here is that they are very shiny. Where most of the brands have a textured surface these are completely smooth. At first expected them to be slippery but in fact they are not and probably less slippery than the rest. The reason is that the texture of the other cards is purposed to create an air layer between the card and the playing surface or other cards. The air layer allows the cards to slide easily on felt as well as shuffle smoothly. These cards do not generate this layer and, as such, don't slide across the felt well. This isn't a bad thing. They do slide fine and certainly well enough to facilitate a smooth game. They just don't slide AS MUCH. This could be an advantage for players who have trouble controlling the pitch. The also shuffle well. If the Stars can be compared to Kem then these are compared to Copag. These are much thinner - part of why they are easy to shuffle - while retaining good elasticity and snap. I think overall, my regular group really liked how these cards played.

Appearance wise, they are similar to the Stars with the same print of numbers, pips, and paint. The backs are even similar. Also consistent with the stars is the use of brilliant colors. The reds are SO red and the blues are very blue. I really love the look of Gemaco. The ace of spades is too large but very pretty.

Unfortunately, these cards do mark. After a couple hours of playing one card had a definite crease where a fingernail pushed down onto it while peaking at the faces. This was heartbreaking since I do like these cards but one deck was ruined the first night! I was the guilty player but I am certain that I did nothing out of the ordinary when peaking and I've been playing live poker for quite some time now. They are a good card but definitely shy of the Gemaco Stars but seem to be a very well received choice for my group and maybe yours.