In an age dominated by digital screens, Lefty Loosey Games LLC, a startup based in Golden, is building its brand on the value of authentic, face-to-face connection. Launched in 2025 by veteran toy industry executive Charlie Anderson, the company publishes physical card games designed specifically to bring people together.
Anderson’s decision to transition from the corporate world was prompted by a desire for a greater connection with his own family. After two decades in the corporate toy world that included ten years commuting to Los Angeles, he left a high-level global director position at Mattel. Prior to his corporate career, Anderson developed skills in crafting compelling experiences through his background in theater, working with Chicago-area companies like The Goodman Theatre and Lookingglass Theatre Company. “My experience equipped me to start a business that focused on increasing face-to-face connection with the people we want to spend more time with,” he said.
While the card game market boasts billion-dollar franchises, Anderson believes there is a critical need for games that appeal to dedicated players while simultaneously reducing the barriers for newcomers. To meet this need, Lefty Loosey designed its offerings to be beginner-friendly and less time-consuming than complex alternatives. “We make it easier for hobbyists to share their passion by lowering barriers of entry, especially related to time and money,” Anderson said.
A cornerstone of the company’s brand is its commitment to high-quality, original artwork. The company has successfully collaborated with artists, four of whom are local to Colorado, to illustrate its games. Otherwise, Lefty Loosey for the time being remains a one-person show, with Anderson managing the rest of the operation. This emphasis on human creativity is a deliberate strategy given the current industry debate over artificial intelligence. Anderson said that AI-generated visuals are “widely shunned” by the game community, which values artistic integrity.
Lefty Loosey’s primary challenge, Anderson said, is increasing brand awareness. In response, they employ a highly localized marketing strategy, engaging directly with consumers at regional conventions like Denver Fan Expo and Colorado Springs ComicCon, as well as at events hosted by local businesses in Golden, notably Holidaily and the Golden Game Guild.
“Board games are a very saturated market, so it’s cool to see someone launch their own product,” said Gavin Rubin, board game lead at Golden Game Guild. “They make a cool beginner-friendly card game meant to get people into games.”
The company has no immediate plans for digital products. Anderson reaffirmed that Lefty Loosey’s core value is maintaining authentic interaction: they will only venture into digital if it can uphold the premiums they place on direct human engagement.
Lefty Loosey’s biggest achievement in 2025 was a successful launch year, Anderson said, with multiple original games on the market and sales “steadily increasing as we get more known.” However, challenges remain, primarily navigating tariffs on the production side and boosting overall marketing reach. By leveraging a unique blend of corporate experience, artistic commitment, and a focus on human interaction, Lefty Loosey Games aims to be a defining new player in the tabletop industry. Learn more about their games online at www.leftylooseygames.com.
