Created by toxicologists — the experts who treat real mushroom poisonings.

• Every poisonous mushroom in this deck is real, selected by people who have seen their effects firsthand.

• Each card is packed with 14 key facts: the organs they damage, the symptoms they cause, the toxins inside, where they may grow, and the basic features that help identify them.

Fun to play. Real to learn. A great introduction to the hidden dangers of the wild.

Disclaimer: This game was created by medical professionals, not PhD mycologists. While it teaches the basics of mushroom identification and treatment, it is not intended as an all-encompassing field guide. The absence of a mushroom from this deck does not mean it is safe to eat. Many poisonous species exist beyond those included here, and even edible mushrooms can be harmful if misidentified, improperly prepared, or consumed in excess. Always consult an expert before foraging or consuming wild mushrooms. Additionally, while treatment basics are covered, this is not intended as medical advice. If you suspect a mushroom poisoning, call your local poison center at 1-800-222-1222. This game is for educational and entertainment purposes only. 

What’s with the name GOTTA PICCEM?
It might sound strange—but it’s actually a powerful tool used by toxicologists to crack real mushroom poisoning cases. GOTTA PICCEM is a mnemonic created by Dr. Richard Hamilton MD and adapted by the game’s creator, Dr. Ryan Feldman PharmD (Clinical Toxicologist and host of www.ThePoisonLab.com). 

It helps organize poisonous mushrooms by when symptoms start—one of the most important clues doctors use when trying to save someone’s life.

And yes—the game includes a full breakdown of the GOTTA²P²ICCEM system, but you can learn more about it right here.

Think you're just playing a game?
You're actually training to outwit the world's deadliest fungi!

Each card includes real facts about poisons, the geographic range of the mushroom, and key identification features. Scroll to the bottom to see all the information contained on each card!

Scoring is tied to each toxin’s real-life effects!

• Ibotenic acid / muscimol (Amanita muscaria): Some report mystical experiences after ingestion—but take too many and it’s the ICU. One may score big, but multiples cost you.

• Amatoxins (Death Caps, Galerina sp, Lepiota sp): Toxicity kicks in LATE (after 6 hours). No points this round, but you’ll score next round!.

• Inky Caps (Coprinopsis atramentaria): Harmless on their own, but drink alcohol and they turn toxic. Combine with booze for maximum points!

• Morels: Edible only when cooked—get the Pan and Fire modifier for big points. Eat them raw and lose points instead!

• Yellow Knight (Tricholoma equestre): Toxicity builds with repeated exposure. Collect more to score more!
  
  

Antidotes for specific mushroom poisons work to boost your points