The flour used to be numbers for Maurice Mura, a language of ledgers and audits, of KPMG and Cogep. Now, at 40, his hands, once accustomed to financial reports, are shaping the destiny of ‘TTMC – Tu Te Mets Combien?’ – a board game that has defied all odds, selling over a million copies and conquering 13 countries. This is not a story of meticulous business plans or venture capital; it’s a tale of an idea born from friendship, nurtured by passion, and propelled by an almost accidental viral success.
The Unexpected Genesis: A Game Born from Friendship
The year was 2016. Maurice, then firmly rooted in the world of accounting, gathered with childhood friends. The premise was simple yet ingenious: each player self-assesses their knowledge on a given topic, rating it from 1 to 10, before tackling a question tailored to their chosen difficulty. What began as a casual evening diversion quickly took on a life of its own. The first cards were handwritten, the ambition modest – a few hundred copies for their inner circle. But the game, with its blend of self-reflection and playful competition, resonated deeply.
Word spread like wildfire. Soon, ‘TTMC’ boxes found their way into Lyon’s vibrant board game bars, then into specialized boutiques. Orders multiplied, and distributors, sensing a nascent phenomenon, came knocking. What was meant to be a private project among friends began its inexorable ascent, first nationally, then internationally.
From Financial Acumen to Gaming Enterprise: A Strategic Shift
By 2019, the pull of ‘TTMC’ was undeniable. Maurice Mura made a pivotal decision, leaving the world of financial auditing behind to dedicate himself entirely to his burgeoning enterprise. While the realms of financial audit and board games might seem disparate, Mura’s background proved to be an invaluable asset. His mastery of management, strategy, and economic indicators – skills honed in the corporate world – provided a unique framework for navigating the uncharted waters of the gaming industry. This disciplined approach allowed the company to self-finance its growth, eschewing external investors and maintaining complete creative control.
Today, ‘TTMC’ is a global success story, available in nine languages and sold in thirteen countries. The brand has expanded its universe with spin-offs catering to diverse interests: science, gastronomy, music, and even a version specifically designed for visually impaired players. This diversification underscores the game’s adaptability and broad appeal, transforming a simple concept into a versatile entertainment platform.
The Million-Dollar Milestone: A Testament to the Power of Play
The symbolic milestone of a million boxes sold firmly establishes ‘TTMC’ among the recent triumphs of the French board game sector. This achievement not only highlights Mura’s entrepreneurial prowess but also reflects the dynamic resurgence of the board game market itself. In an increasingly digital world, there’s a growing appetite for collective and convivial experiences, for moments of shared laughter and friendly competition around a table.
For Maurice Mura, his journey from a Lyon accountant to a gaming millionaire is a powerful testament to the fact that a simple idea, born in a living room, can transcend borders and become a globally recognized brand. It’s a narrative that speaks to the unexpected paths entrepreneurship can take, proving that passion, coupled with strategic thinking, can turn a hobby into a monumental success.
Maurice Mura’s story is a beacon for aspiring entrepreneurs, a reminder that innovation often springs from the most unassuming origins. His success with ‘TTMC’ is more than just a commercial victory; it’s a celebration of creativity, community, and the enduring power of play.
Source: https://www.lyon-entreprises.com/actualites/article/maurice-mura-lyon-jeu-million-exemplaires
