Anti-drug campaigners 'horrified' by game that 'glorifies' cannabis use

18 February 2023 , 20:10

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The game is called 'Ganjaland'

A board game which appears to encourage players to take drugs is being sold on popular websites such as Amazon and eBay.

Anti-drug campaigners have blasted the makers of Ganjaland for “glorifying” cannabis use and putting lives at risk.

The game involves players going on an “epic weed adventure” with cards challenging them to “pass joints” and “take a puff” in the hope of being crowned the “Royal Highness of Ganjaland”.

Amazon insists the game is only aimed at young adults, but there is no age verification to stop children buying it.

One drug education charity chief told us she was “horrified” by the game.

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The game is aimed at players aged 17+ (Amazon)

Fiona Spargo-Mabbs, who launched a foundation in her son Daniel’s name after he died of an accidental MDMA overdose aged 16, said: “Most people under 18 getting professional treatment for addiction to substances are there for cannabis.

“This game is glorifying and trivialising something that can have very serious downsides, particularly for young people who are so much more vulnerable.”

The main rule is that “everyone smokes” as they move their character around the board. Cards then instruct players to do things like “take a solo puff”.

Fiona said: “Cannabis on sale here is incredibly strong. Key risks for young people are becoming addicted and the impact on their mental health. No warnings like this are on this game.

“Early onset of use, such as being under 16, makes you more likely to develop an addiction. Anything that makes it seem fun and harmless is dangerous.” David Raynes of the National Drug Prevention Alliance said: “Those made seriously ill by cannabis are not in a game.

“No cards say, ‘You get cannabis psychosis, go to hospital’. The impact of cannabis on mental health is astonishing.”

Amazon, which sells the game for £29.34, said: “You have to be 18 and over to use our services and under-18s need the involvement of a parent or guardian.” It said the game’s description was being updated to make it clear it was recommended for adult use only.

ebay said: “This item is not illegal to sell. It does not breach any eBay policies.” Makers What Do You Meme? were contacted.

Louise Lazell