I’m always a fan of games that help my kids slow down and think critically. So when HABA, (one of my favorite publishers of kid and family games!) puts out a deduction game, you know we’re going to check it out!

Families and card games go together like peanut butter & jelly, campfires & smores, Cory & Topanga, nutella & a spoon.

Often one of the first games you’ll teach kids to begin their exciting future of card games is Uno. It’s simple mechanics and understandable “get rid of all your cards” goal, it’s a great place to start. Yet as you get older, it looses it’s luster.

The Deadlies is a new game that brings a fun spin on this old classic that’s perfect for those who enjoyed Uno, yet need a bit more now. But can a game themed around the 7 deadly sins be a good match for the family? Let’s find out!

One of my favorite abstract games to play is Mancala. It’s not because it’s particularly exciting, but rather, the beauty and elegance of a well made set always elevates the game and invites me to open it, hold the pieces, and enjoy a game. A good old fashioned challenge between two players. 

I felt a similar feeling upon seeing Shōbu for the first time.

At first glance Shobu is a game that just invites you to pick it up. It’s has a beautiful, organic design. And much like the box promises, it is beautifully challenging too!

Growing up, I was the perfect age to be captured by the initial Pokemon craze. I played Pokemon Yellow on my Gameboy, I watched the Pokemon Movie, and even collected a few Pokemon cards, my favorite being a Snorlax. While I was aware that Pokemon was a card game, I never learned how to play.

Fast-forward twenty years, and Pokemon is still as popular as ever, and thanks to their friends, the kids were gifted some Pokemon cards! All it took was one shiny card and they were hooked. (Cue checking out allll the Pokemon encyclopedias from the library!) They’ve become so obsessed that I finally thought it was time we learned how to play the card game.

Cutthroat Caverns – A New Look and New Way to Play

I get nervous whenever I hear that one of my favorite movies is getting remade. In theory, the newer version should be better since technology has advanced, and they should be able to improve the original in fun ways. However, positive memories from the past can sometimes make it hard to appreciate or accept the newer version. For example, the only Willy Wonka I recognize is Gene Wilder.  

When it comes to board games, I’m of the opposite opinion! That is why I was very excited to try out the Cutthroat Caverns Anniversary Edition iPhone app. We own the original edition of Cutthroat Caverns published in 2007 by Smirk and Dagger games. It was one of the first hobby games I researched and bought on my own to play with my college friends. A decade ago, this game was always getting played, but recently the game hasn’t seen any table time.

Can the Anniversary Edition app live up to my fond memories from my college glory days?