Editorial Review

That iMAgiNiff was developed by two brothers (in Australia) makes perfect sense, because this is a board game you'll want to share with family and friends. It's simple to play. A set of names is chosen, usually the name of every player plus those of several absent friends. When it's your turn, one name is selected as the subject of the question. You pick a card--one of hundreds--that poses a question and six possible answers (for example, "Imaginiff _____ were a crime. Which would he/she be?"). Read the question aloud, plugging in the subject's name. Then read out the six answers (in this case, they range from "homicide" to "indecent exposure"). Each player picks an answer to fit the subject; those who have picked the most popular answer move forward. But though you win by advancing, winning is obviously not the point: laughter and arguments are. The questions on the cards range from the ridiculous ("Imaginiff _____ were a body part.") to the provocative ("Imaginiff _____ had to decide which of the following values is most important."). The game is a fun cross between Scruples and True Colors. --Elisa Murray ... Read more

Reviews (30)

Not for 2 players
I was looking for games that 2 people could play. The site states that it is for 2 to 8 players. It is not. When I got the game and started reading the instructions it became clear that you need at least 3 players. Then I looked on the box and it clearly states "for 3 to 8 players". I don't know how to rate it because we did not get to play it.

Kid's point of view
I am 14 years old and I played this game recently at a family reunion.We had a blast!Everybody joined in on the game: my grandparents, my uncle and aunt, my dad, my cousins, etc.Even my 6 year old cousin was able to play with us.This is a very sociable game.I would say that the only problem was that only 8 people could play!

"The funniest game you can imagine!"
"iMAGiNiff" is a fun game for all. Great tool for learning more about your friends and laughing your head off at the same time!Truly a game that you have fun whether you win or lose--there should be more games like this! Having fun is the reason why we play games, after all.

"iMAGiNiff" calls for 3-8 players ages 12 and up. This game isn't designed for young kids, but I have a six year-old daughter and she always wants to play along on games when we have our friends over but she rarely can. "iMAGiNiff" is great for kids! We just gave her a pawn and matching color cards and let her put down a number one through six and over half the time she got it right (said what most other people said.) We kept her tied with the winner so even though she didn't really "play" she felt like a winnner.Good, because she IS! She laughed and had as great a time as the rest of us! (Now when does that happen when kids play games?) For younger kids, this helps them learn their numbers and colors.Of course, this again, ISN'T designed for kids, it is for adults but the fact that your kids CAN PLAY along (if need be) without disturbing your fun is just brilliant.

I'll share a question where I was the blank: "iMAGiNiff" Kellye were something worn on the hand.What would she be?" 1 Brass knuckles 2 Silk Glove 3 Diamond Ring 4 Rubber Glove 5 Puppet 6 Mitten. [Quick, friends that are reading this, guess an answer.] One friend and my husband got it right and another friend answered puppet.Well, three, diamond ring was my answer after debating between picking brass knuckles since I am a kickboxer and would love to do a mean punch if I ever needed to and then rubber gloves since I am studying to be a nurse. But diamonds after all, are a girl's best friend! I didn't like the puppett answer (I am not one to be controlled, buddy!) but my friend explained he put that because puppets were fun and I was fun.So if you get a weird answer you can always ask them to explain. I was slowest putting down answers about everyone because I love to imagine! The one thing I don't like about the game is that when one puts down an answer about oneself, seems like that should be the definitive answer but it isn't, majority rules; paradoxically, this fact actually makes it all the funner because it helps you see how other people see you. I do hope the makers come up with refill cards to buy because we will be wearing this game out, everyone loves it.

This game is an Essential for get-togethers with your friends! Buy it now! You are truly missing out if you don't own it.
... Read more

Subjects:  1. Games    2. Board Games    3. Party Games    4. Trivia    5. Grownup    6. Activity   

Editorial Review

Monopoly's popularity is of epic proportions. Thisquintessential board game challenges wannabe capitalists of all ages toaccumulate as much wealth as possible by buying, selling, and tradingproperties; collecting rents; and various other windfalls. Keepingplayers engrossed for hours, Monopoly requires clever strategizing andsometimes ruthless business maneuvers. Numerous versions of thethoroughly satisfying game have appeared over the years, butMake-Your-Own Opoly could be even better--because players create it themselves!The game includes everything needed to hand-customize the game board,cards, play money--even the box. Whether using a computer and printeror simply a pen and scissors, anyone can manufacture the perfectindividualized "Smith-opoly," "Baldwin Middle School-opoly," or"Timbuktu-opoly." Contains CD-ROM, floppy disk, paper and label set,game board, six colored pawns, two dice, easy-to-follow publishingbooklet, and game instructions. For two to six players. --EmilieCoulter ... Read more

Reviews (11)

ANGIE'S REVIEW
I LOVED MAKING THIS GAME!!! WHAT AN ORIGINAL IDEA.I LIKE THE FACT THAT I CAN MAKE MY OWN BOARD GAME AND I CAN MAKE UP MY OWN RULES.I LOVE MY MAKE YOUR OWN OPOLY GAME!

Takes time to make but gives fabulous results
This is a wonderful concept. The kit comes with a box, game board, special paper and software to help with the templates. The properties and game play are similar to a simplified version of Monopoly. You chose the names for each property and put a unique picture on each space. When you enter the photograph and the name for a particular space, the program will print up a picture to stick on the board and a corresponding property card. You can customize the money with the faces of family members, famous people or your pets. (Give some thought to which people are on the higher and lower denominations of the money!) THe project works best if you have a digital camera and a scanner. If you are making the board for family, a scanner is particularly handy because they will probably want you to use some old non-digital pictures.

I have made up several customized games for family and for a church auction. I enjoyed making the customized game board. The end result looks quite professional if you work carefully. Be advised, though, this is not a quick 3 hour project. It takes a lot of time to make up a game board. The games come out best if you put some thought into the pictures on the game spaces. There are "Good News" "Bad News" cards that can be customized to reflect good, bad and funny things that might happen to a family or organization. Making the game board can be a fun family project. Everyone enjoys picking out the pictures and arguing about what you should put for good and bad news. You would proably want to have an adult or an adolescent actually paste the pictures onto the board because getting them straight is so important.

I have bought and used several versions of this item. The newest version is easier to use than the original version. It really helps to have a high resolution printer because the images that you stick on the board are quite small. You can definitely use photographs, but due to the size of each space, I would avoid using too many group pictures. Some reviewers have complained that the customized game is less complex and less challenging than real Monopoly. True, there are no houses and hotels. However, when I wanted to make a game more interesting, I added a few phrases to some of the "Bad News" cards. I was also able to use my computer to alter the rule sheet to add some game variations that fit with the particular family or organization that would be using the game.

The game's educational value can increase depending on the way you use it. For instance if you were making a game board for a church or synagogue, you could customize the board to reflect the various committees and rituals that make up the life of the congregation. If used in this way, it can stimulate productive discussion. On the other hand, you can also choose to customize the board to simply be a fun, lightearted game.

Could of been better
I really liked this game, but it is a big hassle. Sure, it is cool to make your own opoly, but it took to much time. Plus once you put something on the board you can't change it. I wish they made it better, just easier. It would be really cool if you could just send what you wnated to the factory, don't you think? So, if you're wondering whether to buy this or not, it is a very fun thing, but if you are really busy you might not enjoy it as much. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Games    2. Board Games    3. Arts and Crafts    4. Craft Kits   

Reviews (2)

Second that!
Jeremy is right-on in his review.Beautiful board at a reasonable price (given that you want quality).Mine resides in my living room full-time.Worth the price.

Superior craftsmanship, truly top-shelf.
If you really like chess and you would like to have a set that is both functional and beautiful, Drueke is the way to go.They are about the only manufacturer of high quality chess equipment left in America.The dark squares and trim are American Black Walnut, and the light squares are Aspen.The part that is really great is that it is made from solid blocks of wood.Most decent chess boards are veneered, which means that there is a very thin layer of nice wood glued on top of some very cheap wood.This is not such a bad idea, as chessboards do not get heavy duty use.These higher end Drueke models are solid though.Even though it's not necessary, it just exudes a feeling of quality.It is heavy and solid.If you turn it over, it is just as well finished on the B side as the top.If you don't like the sawed trim treatment on the top side, flip it over.The walnut is simply beautiful.I'm embarassed to admit it, but this chessboard is the most beautiful piece of furniture in my house. :)If you pair it up with a set of Drueke pieces of appropriate size you will truly have an heirloom piece.Please note that if you want something for tournament use or something super rugged, you would be better served by a set of solid plastic pieces and a roll-up tournament size mat board, and for about 1/10 the cost.It is kind of like this coffee table analogy: You could have a coffee table made from cinder blocks and a piece of plywood, but it doesn't really give you that pride of ownership that a fine piece would.Yes, it will serve you well for as long as you can stand to look at it.However, you just don't look at it and get a warm feeling inside.You won't go out of your way to show it to people.This is your oppurtunity to own something of very high quality for not too much money.Yes, I know that $100+ is a lot for a chess set, but it isn't a lot for fine furniture or something nice to display which also shows you have a good mind to go with your good taste.I can't really think of enough good things to say about this board.If you have a lasting interest in chess, buy this.You will not regret it.The only decision is what size to get.Mine is a 'Grandmaster' model, the one with 2.25" squares for tournament size chessmen.(I don't think Amazon.com carries that model, but their smaller ones are every bit as nice)A wise man once said: "Buy once, cry once.Buy cheap, buy twice." ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Games    2. Board Games    3. Strategy Games    4. Activity   

Reviews (4)

Easier than the Rubik's 3x3...
The Rubik's 4x4, earlier called Rubik's Revenge, is 56 pieces: 24 center pieces, 24 edge pieces, and 8 corner pieces. Although that's 30 pieces more than the 3x3's 26 peices, the 4x4 is actually easier!

The reason for this is that the mechanic of the 4x4 leads to an intrinsic mechanical solution that any fan who has solved the 3x3 would enjoy, and easily discover. I belive it is also thus more educational for younger minds, maybe 7 and up.

I would give Rubik's 4x4 5 stars if it were slightly more durable. The 3x3's six core peices really never move along the core, but the 4x4 has 24 core peices, the center ones, and each is attached by only one millimeter thick piece of plastic.

With heavy twisting, which is necessary, it may break. Once one of the core peices break off, the whole cube falls apart, and is beyond repair. I've had to purchase one replacement so far. This time I'll know not to lend it to my destructive nefews, unlike the harder, but more durable 3x3.

Overall, this is a great toy, especially for 12+, but I think even the gifted 7 year odl could solve it if really dedicated. That is if he didn't break it first. :(

Be challenged Mentally. Awesome Toy.
This is a great toy. I highly recommend this item to anyone who is willing to be challenged mentally. It makes one think-ALOT!

Not as hard as you may think...
An expansion on the 3x3x3 cube, this is a whole different dynamic in solving algorithms. just because you can do three doesn't mean you can do this! But, once you figure out your meathod it isn't super hard. You really need to know how to solve a 3x3x3 before you attempt this, however. Definately, if you like puzzles, pick this up. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Games    2. Brain Games   

Editorial Review

UNO, America's No. 1-selling card game, has a whole new twist. You'll still encounter all theelements that make UNO so unpredictable and challenging, but add to that a motorized card launcher thatshows no mercy and you've got UNO Attack. The object of the game is still to get rid of all your cards. TheUNO command cards direct the game by telling players when to trade hands, discard, reverse the playingorder, or skip a player. Beware the dreaded Hit command, though, as this translates into a game of Russianroulette. You never know when the card launcher is going to fire off a stream of UNO cards just for you! For2 to 10 players. Requires three C batteries (not included). --Alison Golder ... Read more

Reviews (101)

Great twist to UNO!
THE PLUS:We have got 5 kids old enough to play UNO, and it is hard to keep them entertained, until we bought this!It is fun!You never know if you're gonna get no cards or 20.We play this all of the time and would never give it up.

THE BAD:It takes a little more maintenance than you would want a game to take.The rubber wheels need to be wiped with alcohol so it will shoot the cards out better.Also, we change our batteries at least once a week to get maximum shootage!But during normal gameplay you have to rearrange the cards because they slip, alot, and don't shoot out when they are supposed to.But it is worth it.

never worked - don't waste your money
Our family enjoys the traditional uno so I thought this would be an exciting twist. NOT.The thing never worked.Cards don't come out.It even has a disclaimer to say that cards don't come out every time - more like they never came out.It goes BEEP WHHRRRR..then nothing. We tried like crazy to get the thing to work! Ended up throwing it away.Do not recommend.We went back to the simple deck of Uno Cards.

YO...this rox
It is a cool game. Fun to play with lots of ppl at aprty or when u are bored. It never ends and u r always laughing. Its a bit expensive but its worth it. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Games    2. Cards   

Editorial Review

Now everyone can enjoy the classic game of Yahtzee in a nifty electronic version. Small enough to fit in your hand, this addictive game lets you "roll" the dice with the click of a button. Press "hold" to keep the ones you want, and then roll again. Get 5 of a kind, and you've got "Yahtzee." A row of options at the top ("3 of a kind," "small straight," etc.) is available to select preferred scoring for each round. like the original, this fun game can be a bit noisy with its sound effects and victory song, but it does include a silence feature. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (72)

great fun!
This game is an easy version of the original classic, but with no dice to lose!I find the sound a little annoying, but you can just turn it off.
It's also a great way to get your kids doing math, it's helped my 5 year old develop amazing mental arithmetic skills, including times tables (well as long as there are 5 or less numbers involved!).
A great buy.

Yahtzee rocks!
My friends and I love this game at school.My usually boring Algebra class is made enjoyable by this addicting game.If you get Yahtzee, you will instantly become popular; everyone will want to play it.I've had this game for years and can't remember even having to change the batteries.A must-have.

PS-If you think getting a high score is hard...try getting the lowest possible score.

The Gift That Keeps on Giving!
I bought it because my roommate had one in our bathroom.I became addicted to using it while answering the call of nature.I have been playing it for over two years now, and have not lost ineterest in the least.Hell, I even sit down to pee now (while at home) so I can squeeze in a quick game!The number of hours of entertainment compared to the amount spent make this thing the bargain of a lifetime!! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Games    2. Electronic    3. Handheld   

Reviews (10)

Ticket to Ride - 2004 Spiel des Jahres
Without a doubt this was the right pick for the prestigious Spiele des Jahres at the 2004 Essen Game show.Ticket to Ride has the great combination of strategy and luck that any good game design should.I thoroughly enjoy this game, and it is real fun with 2, 3, 4 or 5 players.The really neat thing about this game is how different it plays depending on the number of players playing.I would heartily recommend this game to anyone at all who considers boardgames good fun and time well spent.

My son's favorite!
My 10 year old son and I are crazy about board games. Since we got this one the others have been gathering dust. We play at least once a week, and the rest of the week he's strategizing for the next time we'll play. Not only is it a fantastic lesson on urban planning but also geography. I highly recommend this game for a great family experience!

One of the best games - ever!
When I first heard about Days of Wonder's newest game, Ticket to Ride (Days of Wonder, 2004 - Alan Moon), I was excited. But how could I not be - for all of Days of Wonders games so far have been fabulous, and it seems that each successive game gets better and better. And Alan Moon with a train game (shades of Union Pacific) sounded like a winning combination. I had an opportunity to play the final version of the game, and was quite impressed with how the game looked.

And is the game any good? The short answer is that once you play this game, you'll never play TransAmerica again. It's a fantastic medium-weight game - one that plays equally well with two to five players. The components are superb, the artwork is great, the game is downright fun (and nasty sometimes), and the total package is a very strong contender for the Spiel des Jahres 2004. (which it won!) After my first playing, I ranked it an 8; but after multiple playings the rating moved up to a 9, then a 9.5 - and if I keep playing the game at this rate - may move into my top ten list. Game play is very tight, and I found that game scores can run very close - making for an exciting game, all the way down to the finish.

Each player receives forty-five train cars in one color, and places a matching round token of that color on a scoring track. A large board is placed in the middle of the table, with a map of America (circa late 1800's) superimposed upon it. Thirty-six cities are there, each connected by one or two "railroad lines". These lines are made up of one to six spaces, and are one of eight colors: purple, yellow, black, white, green, red, blue, brown, and gray (neutral color). A deck of "tickets" is shuffled, and three are dealt to each player. Players may discard one of them, but must keep at least two of them. Each ticket has two cities on them, and a point value that a player will receive if they connect those two cities, or lose if they don't connect the cities. The remainder of the ticket cards are shuffled and placed in a face down pile next to the board. A pile of train cards is shuffled, and four are dealt to each player. The remainder are shuffled and placed next to the board, then five of them are turned over and placed face-up next to the draw pile. The player who has traveled the most goes first, and then play continues clockwise around the table.

On a turn, a player may do one of three things. They may draw two cards, one at a time from either the face-up cards and/or the draw pile. Each card shows a different color of train car - matching the eight different colored spaces on the board. There is twelve of each color car in the deck. There are also eighteen "locomotive" cards, which function as wild cards. When a player draws a face-up card, the card is replaced immediately before they draw another card. A locomotive card counts as two cards if drawn when face-up, but only one if drawn when face-down. If there are ever three locomotive cards face-up at any time, all five cards are immediately discarded, and five new cards are drawn. If the cards run out, the discard pile is shuffled back to form a new draw deck.

The second thing a player may do is to draw three ticket cards. They must keep at least one of them, but have the option of keeping all of them, if they like. The others (if any), are discarded.
The third thing a player may do is play cards to place their train cars on the board. A player may play one through six cards of the same color (including wild cards), to place the same amount of train cards on a corresponding line on the board. For example, Las Vegas is connected to Salt Lake City by an orange line consisting of three spaces. Three orange cards must be played to put three trains of that player's color on those spaces. No more players could then place anything between those two cities, and if players want to connect those two cities with their lines, they'll have to go around the long way (if possible). Gray lines can have any color cards played to place trains on them, but the cards played must match the number of spaces in the gray line, and all of the cards must be the same color. When placing trains, the player doing so receives points - 1 point for one train placed, 2 points for two trains, 4 points for three trains, 7 points for four, 10 points for five, and 15 points for six trains. Some cities have two lines connecting them, both of which can be used in a four or five-player game. In a two or three-player game, however, once one of these lines has been used, the other cannot.

When one player, after taking their turn, is down to two train cars or less, the final round begins. Starting with the player to their left, each player has one final turn, and then the game is over. The trains on the board are counted to make sure that the points were totaled correctly during the game, and then ticket cards are revealed. If players can trace a continuous path between the two cities on their card with their color train cars only, they receive the points, and move their tokens accordingly. Otherwise, they lose the points, and must move their token down the scoring track that many points. The player who has the longest continuous track also gets ten points. The player with the most points is the winner!

Some comments on the game...

1.) Components: As usual, the components for Ticket to Ride are supreme. Days of Wonder has, by far, more superior components for their games than any other company. The board is fantastic, with a nice map, and when the train cars - nice plastic cars in bright colors - are placed on it, the whole thing looks pretty fantastic! The cards are of the highest quality, and are about half the size of normal playing cards. Each color card not only has a different train car on it, but they have symbols in the corners to help differentiate between the colors (good for the color blind). Everything fits into a wonderful plastic insert that is in a beautiful, sturdy box - the same size as Days of Wonder's other Big Box Games.

2.) Rules: The rules are only four pages - large, colorful, illustrated pages - but only four! The game is being printed in many languages - and has the distinction of being the first major game release that I know of that has been produced in Korea, something which is rather dear to my heart. The game can be explained in about 5 minutes, and I am very pleased at how easy it is for people to pick up. Even people who have a hard time understanding simple games ("No, John, you cannot attack people in Settlers of Catan!") had an easy time picking up the game - and I was amazed at how fast strategies were picked up.

3.) Strategy: When I first was taught the game by Eric Hautemont, CEO of Days of Wonder, I didn't think that strategy would be that important. Then, he beat us, scoring 162 points to my 82, and my friends 54. I was floored! I thought that I was doing well, during the game, but realized several things that I missed afterwards. I found out in the game that there are different strategies, and was impressed with how they differed. One can ignore their ticket cards and just try to place long trains, hoping to get a lot of points. Or one can try to complete as many ticket cards as possible, not worrying too much about how long of trains they place on the board. Then, there is the middle ground - but is a compromise of the two strategies enough to win? Not to mention the fact that players must watch other players, and occasionally place trains to mess them up.

4.) Cutthroat: This gives the game a real "cut throat" atmosphere. Sometimes the best move for a player is to place train cars between cities they don't care that much about - just to stop another player - either from getting the longest chain of cars, or completing their tickets. This can cause some enmity, but it's all in good fun, and I really enjoyed the player interaction - from taking cards to placing trains.

5.) Holding cards: It's fun to get a big hand of cards (there is no upper limit). Players try to hoard cards so that they can place long trains of cars, scoring the big points. Also, players must always keep in mind that everyone else is watching them, trying to determine where they are going. The longer a player keeps the cards in their hand, the less they tip their hand. However, if one player suddenly uses up all their trains, causing the final round, and you are stuck with a huge hand of cards, it can be quite devastating. My wife found this out the hard way. She was about to connect three cities that would complete two of her tickets - probably winning the game. Another friend of mine, in the same game, had the same problem. Either one of them could have won the game, but because they held the cards just one turn to long - they lost. Of course, I was the evil guy who caused the game to end, but I got my just desserts, losing by only one point to yet another player - and the winning point was caused by her having the longest continuous train of cars.

6.) Fun Factor: And yet, even with the bluffing, and the other little nasty tactics, the game is extremely fun. The decisions are short, causing the game to move quickly, but can be quite stressful at times. Yet these decisions really make the game fun! Blocking someone else off, using your own lines, pulling two locomotives from the draw pile, or finally connecting those two cities - all of this adds up to a wonderful time of fun!

7.) Time and Players: The game runs quickly, because the decisions are important, but don't bog the game down to much. I was impressed with how well the game scaled, but found that the two-player game was much different than a five-player one. Both were fun, but needed different tactics.

As you can see, I really enjoyed this game. I think it has strong possibilities of being one of the best games of the year. Alan Moon has always been one of my favorite designers, and this is one of his best games in years. Days of Wonder has put a lot of time and effort into producing this game, and it shows. When I first played TransAmerica, I thought that it was a boring game -what was the point, and where was the strategy? Fortunately, the strategy and fun in this game are wonderful. I don't need a "dumbed-down" game to introduce new folks to the wonderful world of board games. I can just use games like this - tremendous, fun games, filled with tactical choices and enjoyable times.

Tom Vasel ... Read more

Editorial Review

With rules similar to gin rummy, Rummikub is a classic tilegame that's guaranteed to get at least a million kid-hours of use inany family. Players take 14 numbered tiles and try to get rid of themas fast as possible by creating runs (for example, 7-8-9) and sets(7-7-7). The most fun aspect of the game--and the part that's best forcreative strategic thinking--is that you can pilfer from and rearrangethe efforts of other players in your attempts to part company with moretiles. This deluxe edition is cleverly designed so that the fourplastic tile racks fit together to form a carrying case for the game. --Richard Farr ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Marvelous
I've been playing this game for 20 years starting with my grandchildren and ven they are already grown up they like to play this game. It is a great game and everyone likes it. I recommened it to everyone.

Great family game
This is an almost addictive type of game. After you get the hang of it, you cannot let go.
Highly recomend it for families.

Addicting
It's a wonderful, challenging game and very addicting. The original version had different colors which included yellow, very hard to read when your eyes are tired from hours of playing! With this version, the red and orange can be mistaken for each other.

The Rummikub fever has spread to several households and still going. I keep one in the car! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Games    2. Board Games    3. Family Favorites   

Subjects:  1. Games    2. Board Games    3. Strategy Games   

Subjects:  1. Games    2. Games/Puzzles    3. Role Playing & Fantasy - General    4. Role Playing Games   

Editorial Review

To arms! A harsh and lonely battlefield is the setting for Milton Bradley's newly redesigned Stratego board game. A removable fortress barrier sequesters your army from prying eyes whilst ye prepare yourselves for a most lengthy and glorious conflict. Utmost care must be taken as you place your men.From the lowliest scout to the highest-ranking marshal, all must make ready to encounter enemy bombs, defend the flag, and steel themselves to triumph over the foe. Skillful planning, a keen memory, and sleight of hand will be your allies. Onward, for King and for Country! Spanish and English instructions are included. Stratego is for two players. --Julie Ubben ... Read more

Reviews (64)

the game of stratego
i think this game fills you with interest. Using strategy this game is like a army game.you have players and the wapons you need. Bombs, a spy are the traps youyou need to destroy the best player. This gameis great and the best! also, the best part is the STRATEGY.

A great find
I play this game with my almost 6 year old. I know he is a little young but he has figured out which piece is higher, the bombs, how and who can move, and basically the concept of capturing the flag.although his is a bit young to fully stratagize he is able to think about it which I believe is very educational.Although he is not able to fully stratagize we still have fun getting to the point where one of our flags are captured.And even if this happens he wants to keep playing.This game is great for now and will be even better as he gets older and can think on a more mature level.

THIS GAME IS AWESOME!!
Combine the simplicity of checkers with the suspense of clue and the moves of chess, and you have Stratego.
This is an awesome game, and I am normaly not a board game finatic.
The object is to capture an enemy's flag.
You have different ranking pieces (10 beats a 9 etc. only a spy beats the 10)
Which you attack the enemy pieces with.
Have a good setup, or just good strategy, and you might get past your opponent's bombs and avoid their powerful pieces ( Namely the 10 9 and two eights)
And you might just capture the enemy flag.
This game is incredibly easy to learn, but hard to master.
Overall, it is one of the best games I have ever played. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Games    2. Board Games    3. Family Favorites   

Subjects:  1. Games    2. Party Games    3. Grownup   

Features

• The lightweight, compact, all-inclusive controller, allows gamers to play video games anywhere there is a TV with ATV input jacks. SpongeBob TV Games includes:
• Bubble Pop
• The Super Chum Bucket
• Invasion of the Hooks
• Patrick and the Maze

Reviews (35)

Great fun, a must for every SpongeBob fan!
I can say that again, a must for every SpongeBob fan.

With this Plug 'n Play TV Game, this thing comes with 5 games. Here is my rating on the games packed in one:

Bubble Pop - Like the classic Breakout game from Atari, with a SpongeBob twist, and lots of levels to complete. Rather than bricks it's bubbles! Wow!
Rating: 5/5

Sandy's Surf Adventure: A resemblence of Defender and it's finest, and you get to play Sandy surfing on a clam shooting out acorns at henchmen.
Rating: 4/5

Patrick and the Maze: Gauntlet calling, with Patrick as a main character in a coral maze, and finding friends along the way to try out little microgames!
Rating: 4/5

Invasion of the Hooks: This is ok, but not the best out of the collection, when you first try it you might think it's fun but if you play it again later or the next day it probably gets boring, but still allright.
Rating: 3/5

The Super Chum Bucket: A game that features Evil Plankton! On a mission to kidnap Sandy. It's up to SpongeBob to save her from the evil genius, Plankton! Reminds me of the arcade Nintendo game, Donkey Kong which debuted Mario!
Rating: 5/5

Durability is a top standard which can stand rough playing.

The Best Plug and Play...PERIOD!
My three year old son and I went through a plug and play phase where I basically bought every available plug and play system available. Well, I can tell you that the Spongebob plug and play is by far the best of these game systems. The games are challenging but not maddening and lots of fun. There are 5 games included on this little joystick:

1. Spongebob's Bubble Pop (10/10): My personal favorite of the five games. Basically in the old Breakout/Archanoid game style but very fun and with 50 levels to complete!

2. Super Chum Bucket (9/10): This is basically Donkey Kong featuring Spongebob and Plankton...but hey, Donkey Kong is a classic and this game is just as entertaining.

3. Invasion of the Hooks: (4/10): This one is kind of lame. Sandy, Plankton and Patrick are hooked and Spongebob must save them by throwing Krabby Patties at the hooks...not much fun.

4. Sandy's Surf Adventure (7/10): This one is a fun old school style shooter in the vein of Defender but with Sandy crusing through Bikini Bottom.

5. Patrick and the Maze (7.5/10): Obviously a maze game but reminds me of Gauntlet. Patrick must unlock and find his friends...an entertaining game.

**A word about durability** - This plug and play has withstood some rough play (I also have a 16 month old) meaning slamming, banging and pulling of wires; yet it works everytime we turn it on. The batteries do need to be replaced every now and again for optimal performance.

So overall, if you or your kids love Spongebob or old school video games, this system is a must-own. Highly Recommended.

Very cool!
I got it for Christmas, and it ROCKS! All the games are REALLY cool, and I'm becoming a master at it! My brother, Bobby Gelhar, and my sister, Katie Gelhar, love it! I think that it is really awesome, and is REALLY REALLY COOL! I WOULD BUY IT IF I WERE YOU! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Games    2. Electronic    3. Handheld    4. Car Racing    5. Sports    6. Video Games    7. PS2 (PSX2)    8. Sony Playstation (Play station) 2    9. Playstation2 (Play station2)    10. Action    11. Adventure    12. Action and Adventure   

Reviews (16)

Othello is a good logic game
This is a good logic game that requires stratagy and thinking. Very fun game for two people. Recommend it for the logic type of people.

Strategy game for two with simple rules
Sometimes known as Reversi, Othello is a great game in itself but (like draughts) is also a useful starting point for children too young to master the complexities of chess. The game can appeal to people of all ages who enjoy strategy games including those who feel intimidated by chess. Meanwhile, chess players who have difficulty finding other chess players of comparable ability can enjoy playing Othello - it is much easier to find suitable opponents for this game.

The rules are simple. The playing area is a squared board. Each square is a space for a plastic disk, which is white on one side and black on the other. To begin with, the four central squares are occupied with two disks showing white and two showing black. Each player has half of the remaining disks, taking turns to place a disk on an unoccupied square with their own color showing, adjacent to a disk showing the opponent's color and in a direct line with one showing the player's own color. The idea is to place the disk in such a way as to allow the player to turn over disks showing the opponent's color to their own color - as many as possible within the rules - while making the opponent's task as difficult as possible. As the game progresses, a player may be able to place a disk next to several showing the opponent's color, opening up lines in different directions and turning a lot of disks over.

People soon learn that being able to place disks in the four corners is often the key to winning the game. If you can get at least three of the four corners showing your color, you will almost certainly win (but not always). So you have to be careful to avoid placing disks in the squares adjacent to the corners, as this gives your opponent a potential opening (even though it may not be immediate).

While six and seven year old children can easily learn the rules, the game is sufficiently interesting (if you like strategy games) that it can entertain people of all ages.

Othello has one significant advantage over chess and draughts - it is not unusual for one player to build up a commanding position only to lose it quickly. In chess and draughts, it is very rare for a player to lose from a commanding position.

Extra stars please!
This game is great, it is easy tolearn, and it teaches strategy. Mom and Dad can play with son or daughter, it's worth the 15.00. My parents shared this game with me, and now I can share it with my kids. 5 star rating! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Games    2. Family Favorites    3. Strategy    4. Board Games    5. Strategy Games   

Features

• Other games are Timon to the Rescue and Simba & the Tree of Trials
• For 1 player
• Five games featuring your favorite Disney characters
• All games are stored in the joystick: just plug into your TV and play
• Games include Donald's Disney Golf Tournament, Stitch's Search for Lilo, and Aladdin & the Gems of Agrabah

Reviews (4)

Do you have hours of time to waste?
If so, then go and buy one.I bought this for my 8 yr. old.When I saw it on the shelf, I thought WOW! what a bargain (for 5 games)and all you do is plug it in.Well I soon discovered why it was only $20.00.The first unit we had constantly cut-off while playing.The second unit we had, the picture faded in and out while playing.The third unit did all of the above.I can understand that sometimes things don't work.But for three to be defective is terrible.I even got the third one from a different store in the hope that one from a different "batch" would work.My daughter liked the games so much (when she could play them), that I went out of my way to find one that worked.I don't feel like Jakks Pacific Inc. has very much respect for their customers.At least not enough to make, and test a product to ensure its quality.I would have been willing to pay an extra $5.00 for the game.Maybe if they would have raised the price $1 or $2 then they could afford some quality assurance.

Disney Domination
I have purchased 4 different plug and play games and by far this one is definitely the best! I am totally addicted to the Simba tetris-like game. I also enjoy the Timon and Aladdin games. The only that I didn't care too much for was the Donald Duck Golf Game. Regardless, I think that the graphics are great and I hope that they will continue this series with other disney cartoons.

FANTASTIC!
Very simple to hook to a tv, from box to playing games the first time is approx. 2 min. and that includes reading the directions in that time frame!

I was surprised at how great the graphics were on this game, didn't expect to much because of the cost.
The games are fun, for kids or adults.

I'll be purchasing a few more of these for Christmas gifts!
This was truly a fantastic game package at a fantastic price.
... Read more

Subjects:  1. Games    2. Electronic    3. Handheld    4. Car Racing    5. Sports    6. Action and Adventure    7. Learning   

Editorial Review

Test your code-cracking prowess with Mastermind, "the challenging game of logic and deduction." The codemaker sets a code of four colored pegs--choosing from yellow, red, orange, blue, green, or white--and conceals it behind a flip-up shield. Your mission: replicate the code in 10 moves or fewer. With each of the codebreaker's attempts, the codemaker uses red and white key pegs to offer cryptic clues about color and position. Make the game even more difficult by using multiple pegs of the same color or by leaving one or more peg holes empty. With more than 2,000 possible code combinations, every game is guaranteed to be a brain-bender. All of Mastermind's components can be stored in the game board. Mastermind is for two players. ... Read more

Reviews (17)

Truly a game that spans generations
This game has such a wide range of age appropriateness.I started playing it against my parents when I was in my early teens, and we loved it.My younger sister, probably seven or so, was jealous of how much we loved the game and taught herself the rules through observation.Soon she was able to beat the rest of us at our own game!If someone is interested in the kind of logic and systematic deductive approach required to play Mastermind, it can be enjoying by someone of any age.

I would recommend this game for people who have grown out of simpler games such as Connect Four.

This is a great game for grandparents to play with younger people, because the older person doesn't have to "dumb down" their technique to play a kids game.It exercises your brain without having any overt educational tone.Everyone can benefit from some good Mastermind strategy practice!

Warning on the shipped product colors!!!
This is great "mind" game, however I received it from Amazon but I must write here a warning note about the game's board colors that are just horrible!!! The image on the product page has nothing to do with the frightful blue-yellow colors of the board shipped. Obviously it isn't the original MasterMind I was supposed to buy, very dissapointing. Its manufacturer looks poor also. Too bad for a game as good as this. You have been warned.

Want to excercise your brain?
This game will put your noodle to work big time. Plus it is a lot of fun and challenging. You will need to use your logic and deductive reasoning to the max.

The object of the game is to guess a secret code consisting of a series of 4 colored pegs, which will remain hidden behind a shield. The codebreaker has to duplicate the exact colors and positions of the secret code. Each guess results in feedback narrowing down the possibilities of the code. The winner is the player who solves his opponent's secret code with fewer guesses.

I have been playing this game for years. It still is one of my favorites. I am a game collector and got hold of ADVANCED MASTERMIND. To bad it is so hard to find. In the advanced version the color code is made of a sequence of five colors instead of four. Plus there are eight different colors to choose from, nine if you use vacant holes as a color. This raises the possible combinations from 2,000 in the classic game to around 60,000 possible combinations! Yet really advanced players should break the code in four to six guesses. You get a maximum of 12 guesses instead of the ten in the classic game. If you find this version you will love it and wonder why it's so hard to get.

The only bad thing about Mastermind would be the time it takes some players to make a guess. We resolved the problem using a chess player's clock. We give anything between 6 to 12 minutes for the codebreaker, obviously stopping the clock when the codemaker places the feedback pegs. If you run out of time you get zero points.

This game is for people who love to think. It is awesome for kids, and will help them develop their logic skills. Do have in mind that you will need to place the pegs in bags or they will get lost. Have fun!
... Read more

Subjects:  1. Games    2. Board Games    3. Brain Games    4. Family Favorites   

Features

• Go Fetch! Mr. Monopoly celebrates Mans Best Friend in this special edition of THE DOG Monopoly game showcasing Americas most irresistible canine companions.
• Wheel and deal for popular pooches including the lovable Labrador Retriever, the pugnacious Pug, the dutiful Golden Retriever and the ever-faithful German Shepherd. All are house-broken and are ready for you to take them home!
• A portion of the proceeds from this purchase will benefit Canine Companions for Independence.
• Canine Companions for Independence (CCI) is the oldest and largest non-profit provider of assistance dogs for people with disabilities.
• Game includes: Game board, title deed cards, dog money and banker tray, 16 food bowl cards, 16 water bowl cards, 32 dog houses, 12 kennels, rules, 6 collectible pewter tokens ( Golden Retriever, food dish, dog house, Pug, dog bone and fire hydrant) and 2 dice.

Reviews (5)

Fun spin on a classic!
I spent this past Superbowl Sunday playing this version of Monopoly, and I thought I would add a review since the ones here are well....not very helpful.Not that you really need a review since it's Monopoly, and who doesn't know Monopoly?But here we go...

This game plays the same as the regular versions, with the real estate squares having dog breeds associated with them.Golden Retriever and Labrador Retriever are what Boardwalk and Park Place were in the original game.The utilites are dog services (dog washing and dog walking).The railroads are "best in show" awards.All the art is adorably cute, so much so that when you get a "go to jail" card, you don't mind because the picture on the card is so cute. The pewter playing pieces included are: a water bowl, a fire hydrant, a bone, and 2 (different) dogs.Both of the dogs have the big heads and small bodies, keeping with the theme of the wide angle photography featured on the game board.

My only (small) squabble with this edition is that at first glance, the two dog playing pieces look way too much alike and are a bit hard to distinguish if you are using both in a game. They maybe should have made one much bigger, or done another dog-themed piece.It would be easy to move your fellow players piece by accident, especially if you are socializing while you are playing.

Other than that, it was fun to play - if you love classic monopoly you'll definately get a kick out of this!

I Have Two Labs With Big Heads And Little Bodys
I Love This Game Its Fun To Play With My Mommy And Daddy!!!!BUY THIS GAME!!!!

FUN
Fun and a great game to play.! It is a little hard for younger children. But it teaches you how to use and save your money. Great!!!!!! The game is so cute with all of the dogs on the board! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Games    2. Board Games    3. Activity   

Features

• Stratego - The Lord of the Rings Trilogy Edition. Command your favorite trilogy characters as you strive to control Middle-earth.
• Combines the classic Stratego gameplay with exciting The Lord of the Rings adventures.
• Use memory, cunning and luck to capture your opponent's ring and win the game.
• Ages 8 and up. 2 Players.
• Contents: Gameboard 40-piece gray army 40-piece beige army label sheet Instruction

Reviews (26)

Family Fun with a Fantasy Twist
I must admit that my family loves Monopoly and I love LOTR. This is a great version for us to break out during the hurricanes [I live in FL] for a change of pace.

It is a nice set and if you're into collecting the different versions I would highly recommend this one. One point that I am unsure of is if this is the Trilogy version or not. When movies and marketing span years, one must be careful to check on those pesky details.

All in all a good game with moderately paced game play; however it can take a while to get through a whole game so do not start near bed time.

Simply fantastic!
This game is so much fun! It is a very fun way to spend your time, I love being able to "own"Weathertop! Mount Doom is also included, at a very high sale pirce, in this game. There is also a pretty fun alternative game that includes using the One Ring. I think anyone who is a fan of the books, or mainly the movies, should get this edition of Monopoly!

My favorite version of Monopoly yet.
My fiance and I collect different versions of Monopoly as we're addicted to the game. Last Christmas I bought him this one as he had just finished watching the LOTR trilogy. Quickly we both became addicted to this particular version. I have never seen the movies yet I rate this version of the game higher then any of the others for a number of reasons. The game is so well put to the Monopoly board, it seems natural to be playing to try to get all the "steeds" vs. "railroads". The game pieces are incredibly detailed and add significantly to the game. I would recommend LOTR Monopoly to all! ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Pleasant Surprise
I call this a pleasant surprise because I wasn't expecting that much; I bought this game for my wife as kind of a joke because she's a litigator.We sat down to play and who'd've thought it would end up being a really cool game?It has elements reminiscent of Monopoly but it's a totally modern game -- there's a good bit of competition and bluffing.I think it's really a game for 3 or more people because with two there are some things you can't do (like be another player's lawyer, which my wife and I thought was really funny), but we still had a lot of fun.The actual things that happen to you -- the reasons you sue -- are very cute.Anyhow, it's refreshing that there's finally a new game that isn't just trivia or Cranium or some variation thereof!

Cool game
Funny & fun as hell.I gave it to my daughter, who's pre-law.Turns out the game has nothing to do with law, though you do get to sue people for crazy things like "coffee spilled in your lap so cold it causes frostbite."My 10-year old loves it too.I give it a 9 out of 10. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Games    2. Board Games   

Reviews (1)

Excellent "intelligent" game for all ages !!
Games has a simple objective -- get the Red car out of traffice. And boy! it is difficult and changelling at higher level. Set up the *cars* as described in cards and figure out a way to get the Red Car out.The best thing is complexity raange from very easy to very hard. So it captures kids interests and provides the extra incentive to move to the next level !!

Simple rules -- once you have placed the cars on the Grid, you can only move them forward or backward.

A great addition to this game is "Rush Hour 2, 3 and 4 Gift Pack" for less than $12/-. Each set has 40 cards or in total 120 different combinations are possible. The highest level is really really difficult. Meant for the "Pros" only !!! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Learning    2. Games    3. Board Games    4. Family Favorites    5. Brain Games    6. Puzzles    7. 3-D Puzzles    8. Travel Games    9. Strategy Games    10. Brain Teasers    11. Activity