Games By Approvers - Father Geek

We play games with three different groups.

Child Geeks
Parent Geeks
Gamer Geeks

If all three groups vote to approve, the game receives our Father Geek Seal of Approval, signifying that it is enjoyable for all players.

If you want to show only the games approved by those who approved them, look no further!

Monster Café Game Review
You always dreamed of opening your own place and serving your clientele the very freshest of meals. Finally, after years of hard work, you have realized your dream and opened your very own restaurant! But your dream quickly became a nightmare when all your customers were monsters! Literally! Oh, well. No one said the restaurant business was easy and never forget: the customer is always right, no matter how wrong their order is.
10 Down Game Review
Simplicity suggests minimalism. That is to say, a lot can can be gained with little. While many might think that “more is better”, there is a growing movement of minimalists who challenge that way of thinking, choosing to instead reduce and focus on the essentials rather than acquire bulk. In this game, simplicity is a given, but the process of winning is anything but a minimal effort.
12 Realms Game Review
The magical realms are at peace. Travelers and merchants cross the boarders freely and all share in the bounty. When scattered reports and rumors began to circulate of invaders, many couldn’t believe it. After all, the realms have never known war. When the first invading forces torched a small village, the magistrates of each realm called for heroes to fight for and defend their homes. The heroes heard the call and now march to war for the first time in the history of the realms. The future is very uncertain…
13th Street Crew Game Review (prepublished version)
It’s not personal. It’s business. Yeah, you may break a rule or two, even several laws. And, sure, you sometimes have to flex a bit of muscle when you smile, but it’s never personal. It’s about the money and the power and the respect. If you want your crew to be recognized before the Old Don, you must show you can earn. Take the jobs and cash in, but be careful. Greed has a way of making friends into enemies. Just keep telling yourself it’s only business. But if you need to, make it personal.
1955: The War of Espionage Game Review
Actor Gary Oldman said, “I’m almost incapable of lying. I’d be a terrible spy.” But lying is not necessary if you are never noticed, let alone caught or questioned. In this game, you will subtly influence different countries as your opponent does the same. You can only focus your attention in so many places and you must do all you can to avoid drawing too much attention to what you are attempting. Remember: if your opponent knows what you are doing, you are doing it wrong.
3 Seeds Game Review
German theologian, philosopher and mystic, Meister Eckhart said, “What we plant in the soil of contemplation, we shall reap in the harvest of action.” In this game, a player must consider where to put their time, energy, and finances. If done correctly, they will reap points to win the game when the harvest is taken in. The key is to know the difference between effort spent and effort wasted.
3 Wishes Game Review
Imagine if you had three wishes. You could have anything; be anything. Would you wish for power, wealth, or would you selflessly wish for others? Perhaps world peace? How about no more sickness, pain, or hunger? Your imagination is the limit, but in this game, your wits and memory are the key to getting what you wish for.
36 Stratagems Game Review
The Ming Dynasty (1368–1644) brought about great social stability and governmental order. In short, peace and growth, but at a price. There are always forces at work that impede progress and reform. As a political leader, your ambition to rule will conflict with others. Something worth ruling is worth fighting for.
5-Minute Dungeon Game Review (prepublished version)
They say that the longest a hero can hope to survive in a dungeon is 5 minutes. That’s not very long, but you and a group of your heroic friends have devised a plan. You’ll jump in the dungeon, explore, and defeat the boss monster in less than 5 minutes! Some say you are crazy and they may be right, but one thing is for certain. If you are going to beat the odds, you best be quick about it.
7 Wonders Game Review
7 Wonders is a game where players try to lead an ancient civilization from its earliest beginnings to become a world power. Players can develop their civilization as military powerhouse, establish a merchant state, or master science and technology. Over a series of three Ages, players will first develop a collection of resources that are used in later Ages to build structures, train a military, research technologies, and even build a world wonder. The player who has the most developed civilization (i.e. victory points) after the third Age wins the game.
7-Card Slugfest Game Review
No one really remembers how the fight began. A few witnesses remember there being a loud laugh and then some angry words, but that’s about it. The next thing everyone remembers is chairs being thrown, bottles breaking, and tables being turned over. It was, by all accounts, the biggest bar brawl in the town’s history. The bar is a mess, the barkeeper is unconscious, and none of the bar brawlers have much to say other than, “That was a great fight.”
7Sins! Game Review (prepublished version)
Marilyn Monroe said, “I am good, but not an angel. I do sin, but I am not the devil.” In this game, players will collect Sin cards, each representing one of the “Seven Deadly Sins” (also known as capital vices or cardinal sins). The number of sins collected will need to be carefully controlled. Collect too many or not enough and you won’t win. It’s a balancing act between vice and virtue. In order to be the worst, you have to play the best.
9-Shooter Quick Draw Game Review (prepublished version)
The desert sun beats down on you with intense heat, but that’s not why you’re sweating. No less than 50 yards in front of you stands your adversary. Through narrow gulches and dry stream beds, you have chased each other for what feels like a lifetime. Now, in this sleepy border town, the chase will end. One of you will live to see tomorrow, while the other will be in the cemetery before nightfall. Flexing your fingers and taking a deep breath, you prepare for what is to come and what might or might not follow.
A Cure for What Ails You Game Review (prepublished version)
Medicine in the 1800s was a loosely defined and highly rudimentary practice of dangerous chemical components, ignorance of the human body, and a lot of guesswork. This was when medical professionals were still trying to figure out how best to serve, and charlatans easily duped the sick with promises of quick cures and miracles. It’s here, at this time, that the players find themselves setting up shop in New Orleans, Louisiana. The population is extensive, and there are graveyards right outside the backdoor. There are plenty of opportunities to practice medicine and the quick con. Just ensure your questionable approach to healing doesn’t put too many patients six feet under.
A Fistful of Penguins Game Review
You’ve got the land, built the cages and pens, and are ready to open your zoo! One problem, though, you have no animals! No worries, you can go out and capture the animals you need to fill your zoo. Oh, but there’s the type of animals to think about. You can’t just go putting lions next to kangaroos or fill an entire section of your zoo with moose, after all! Jeepers, owning a zoo is work! No time to think about your career choices now! Go grab your net and start bagging critters!
A Haunting by the Shadow Game Review
American writer, publisher, artist, and philosopher, Elbert Hubbard, said, “The supernatural is the natural not yet understood.” We like to pretend we have it all figured out. We do this so it’s easier for us to discount the door closing by itself as nothing more than the wind, our keys not being where they should be because we are absent-minded, and the shadows that move on the wall are nothing but tricks of light. Easily explainable events or something more? The line between the natural and the supernatural is one of understanding. If that is the case, when you face the ghosts in this house, you’ll understand the true nature of fear.
Abacan Game Review
In this abstract game, every move counts and counts and counts again. Keep track of the beads and determine your odds of success as you quickly shift one to three beads from one side to another. Be smart, be careful, and be sure that the beads you move will not leave you well outside the winner’s circle when the game ends.
Abaddon: Shattered Command Game Expansion Review (prepublished version)
The land was once green and fertile. Now it’s lifeless and pockmarked with craters. It’s in this desolate landscape that men and women fight for survival. Some hunt on foot looking for their enemy, while others pilot giant mechanized battle mechs called Links. From the Command Bunkers, the word goes out that the enemy is approaching. Without hesitation, the soldiers once again charge into war.
Absolute Game Review
If the inter-web is telling me the truth (really hard to tell nowadays), the earliest known card game originated in China in the 9th century, or roughly over 1,225 years ago (as of the date of this review’s publication). Since then, humanity has continued to create and play games using cards or card-like components. Today, in a world of digital wonder, we play card games on the computer. It comes as no surprise that new games are published every year using nothing other than a deck of cards. In this game, the traditional approach to a classic card game is revised and refined for the modern age.
Ace of Spies Game Review (prepublished version)
Espionage is a game where betrayal is a given. This makes it a lonely game for all to play, as there are no friends you can trust. The only thing you can depend on are your enemies because you know where they stand. No, it’s your supposed friends you have to be careful for. That nice waitress at the corner cafe and the kindly old man who feeds pigeons in the park could all be agents. The only way to survive is to be quicker, smarter, and more paranoid than everyone else. Welcome to the game, agent.
Acuity Game Review
The definition of acuity is “sharpness or keenness of thought, vision, or hearing.” The game is aptly titled as you need sharp eyes to spot patterns, a quick mind, and a keen ear. This is not a game that is played seated down, but you will most likely want to sit down and rest after playing it.
Adventure Time Card Wars: Fionna Versus Cake
Welcome to the Land of Ooo, the home of the Adventure Time graphic novels and cartoon series. In this game, you get to share the adventures of Fionna and Cake as they battle it out to determine who is the most awesome in all the known universe. To be so, you must use your cards to beat your opponent, using your cunning and legendary tactical skills. Flip, flop, and floop your way to victory as you explore the strange inhabitants and disquieting danger that lurks around every corner. Perfect for an adventure!
Adventure Time Fluxx Game Review
The Land of Ooo is full of magic and wonder. Danger and adventure await any brave or foolish enough to leave the comforts of their couch to go exploring. Two such adventures are Finn the Human and Jake the Dog. These two heroes travel the land, save princesses, and quest for treasure. Their legend grows by the day and now you get to be a part of their story.
Aether Captains Game Review (prepublished version)
The difference between good and evil is based on perspective. The Empire views the sky pirates as a plague that threatens life and property. From the sky pirates’ perspective, the Empire is a ruthless dictatorship bent on repressing the people. Only one thing is for certain and mutually agreed upon. The skies above Arkady are worth fighting and dying for.
Aftershock: A Tavern Game Review
Indian economist and an international academician, Raghuram Govind Rajan, said “Competition is like a treadmill. If you stand still, you get swept off. But when you run, you can never really get ahead of the treadmill and cover new terrain – so you never run faster than the speed that is set.” But what if you could shift the direction in which that treadmill was moving? Say, from going forward to backwards and then sideways? That would certainly cause many to fall on their face. In this game, expect the ground you are building your victory upon to shift without warning.
Agricola Game Review
Agricola (Latin for “farmer”), designed by Uwe Rosenberg and published in English by Z-Man Games in 2008 (following the runaway success of the German edition published the previous year), is a thrill-a-minute worker placement game about farming. Okay, I admit that the theme itself is not the most exciting one, but if your little geek can play this game, then your child has the makings of a true Gamer Geek. And that is truly exciting!
Alfredo’s Food Fight Game Review
In this game, players get to participate in a food fight with Chef Alfredo caught in the middle! The first player to successfully fling and stick all their meatballs to the spinning Chef Alfredo, wins! This game is a nice filler that has an easy learning curve, making it accessible to just about everyone. Fast and fun for the little geeks and enjoyable for big geeks, too!
Alien Frontiers Game Review
Not just Yahtzee in space, Alien Frontiers will suit your school-aged geeks ready to move into moderately complex games. Too long for a filler and not meaty enough for a square meal, you will find that the game provides complexity without being out of reach or terribly difficult. While the most hardcore of Gamers will find it slightly light, for the vast majority the game is just right!
Alliances Game Review (prepublished version)
John Kenneth Galbraith, an economist, public official, diplomat, and a leading proponent of 20th-century American liberalism, said, “Politics is the art of choosing between the disastrous and the unpalatable.” If that is the case, then the world political stage is a smorgasbord of rotten and slightly tolerable results. The same cannot be said about this game of political intrigue, power, and persuasion where players attempt to conquer and control one country at a time.
Amalgimal Zoo Game Review
In order to have a successful zoo, you need to have an attraction everyone wants to see. The problem is, everyone has already seen lions, tigers, and bears. These animals just aren’t drawing the crowds you want, so you turn to science to solve your problems. By splicing the DNA of different animals, you have brought forth creatures that no one has ever seen before! But rivals have been watching and are now doing the same thing for their zoos! It’s a race to see who can create a zoo full of the oddest animals!
Amber Route Game Review
Amber can be used in jewelry, perfumes, and medicines. No wonder merchants are willing to risk the open road and dark forests to bring their amber to the market. But the roads have become more dangerous as of late. Monsters and supernatural creatures can be found stalking travelers. Sighing, you start walking. No one ever said a merchant’s life was easy.
Among the Stars Game Review (prepublished version)
Not too long ago, space was a battleground. Many fought and died among the stars. That time has passed and peace has been declared by all the warring races. In an effort to keep the peace and establish meaningful relationships built on trust and trade, the new governing body known as the Alliance has ordered all space-faring civilizations to build space stations to be a beacon of peace and friendship in the darkness of space. You have been hand-selected to represent your race and construct such a space station. You have limited time and resources, but you must succeed for the betterment of all.
Anathema Game Review
Salem was built upon the bedrock of religious doctrine that was riddled with cracks of intolerance, superstition, and ignorance. When fear and panic swept through the community in the 1600’s, mass hysteria debased unjustly accused individuals to a level parallel to demons and witches. What some called purification is now known to be murder. A formal curse by a religious leader is called an “anathema”. If we let our fears rule us, we are truly cursed creatures who are forever lost in shadow.
Ancient Artifacts Game Review (prepublished version)
Finding lost secrets is one thing. Keeping them hidden from others is a completely different challenge. In the competitive world of archaeology, grants and renown go the scientists who deliver the goods. Not necessarily the ones who do the most work. In this high stakes game of winner takes all, the road to victory is often paved by your opponent. Knowing when to blaze your own path and when to follow others will secure your place in history.
Ancient World Multi Game System Review
Irish playwright, critic, polemicist and political activist, George Bernard Shaw, said “If history repeats itself, and the unexpected always happens, how incapable must Man be of learning from experience.” Which is to say, if we are unable to learn from the past, how can I make a better future? And yet, the past has so much to teach and is worth going back to. Yes, it’s great to live in the moment, but it’s worth glancing back and seeing how far you’ve come. In this collection of ancient themed games, a modern take is given on timeless lessons that are worth learning and enjoying, but the way the lesson is learned is always changing.
Angry Birds Star Wars Jenga Hoth Battle Game Review
The Rebels have gathered their forces on the remote ice planet of Hoth. There, they plan for their next strike against the Empire. Leading them is Luke Skywalker, a young bird with powers of the long gone Jedi order. Suddenly, the proximity alarms are triggered and the cameras show the Empire has found the Rebel base! Time to go put those Imperial swine down!
Angry Birds: Knock on Wood Game Review
The designers of the Angry Birds: Knock on Wood game have created a fun translation from the video game and kept the theme intact. The components are well made for the age group and it has provided a decent level of fun for my family. I recommend this to anyone with little geeks who are also familiar with the video game or are looking for a worthwhile action/dexterity game.
Animal Ailments Game Review (prepublished version)
French actor and professional mime, Marcel Marceau, said “What sculptors do is represent the essence of gesture. What is important in mime is attitude.” In this game, players will be tasked to mime a random animal and a random ailment that plagues them. If time allows, they can steal cards, quietly, from opponents and gain additional points!
Animal Mastermind Towers Game Review
Animal Mastermind Towers is a child-friendly version of the classic logical deduction game, Mastermind, but with much easier rules and game play that allows for two people to play simultaneously as the puzzle creator and the puzzle solver.
Animal Poker Game Review
American Rock musician Tom Sholz said, “Sometimes I actually start to think human life is just as cheap to corporate America as animal life, so long as there are big profits to be made.” In this game, players will compete to climb the corporate ladder by stepping on the backs of others to reach the highest office in the company: the CEO. Along the way, they’ll have to outplay and outwit every other player attempting to get the big promotion, along with competing directly with the current CEO. If you want to win in this game, you best be ready to fight like a highly ambitious animal with a deep desire for stock options and a healthy 401K.
AnimaLogic Game Review
Your animal park has been in a drought for over 8 months. When the rain clouds appeared on the horizon, even the animals looked hopeful. But when the steady downpour kept getting harder and harder, hopes changed into fears. The river is rising and you have been sent out into the park to rescue the animals. The majority of animals have already been saved, but a few remain. The lions, camels, giraffes, and hippos have been gathered together, but there is only a small bridge to safety that is dangerously close to being swept downstream by the flooded river. You must cross the animals quickly and in an orderly fashion before they stampede. Your mother told you there would be days like this…
Ants in the Pants Game Review
Ants in the Pants requires the players to quickly (and accurately) flip little plastic ants into a pair of very big blue trousers. Takes seconds to teach and everyone plays at the same time. Very little downtime and quick set up/clean up makes this a game you can get out, play a bunch, and then move on to the next activity, quickly.
Apotheca Game Review (prepublished version)
Rumors abound of a secret society of apothecaries who know ancient magics and the key to immortality. You have sought this society out and hope to persuade them to allow you to join their ranks. They are amused by your request and will allow you to demonstrate your skills. The first to appease 3 apothecaries will be allowed to join and have access to unlimited power, among other perks, such as discount wagon parking.
Application Crunch Game Review
Application Crunch is a good game that is going to be a hit for parents and families, a surprise to game elitists who will gladly acknowledge its creativity, and a fun and worthwhile way to educate the next generation of college going geeks. Fun, interesting, engaging, and balanced, this game delivers an excellent lesson in personal time management, goal setting, and achievement wrapped up in an enjoyable game. Simply outstanding and very impressive.
AR51 Game Review
Let’s be clear. Your job does not exist. Your employer does not exist. Those alien artifacts and technology you see over there. Those doesn’t exist either. Yes, you exist. Don’t be silly and don’t let your control area get out of .. well .. control. We like to keep things clean and organized here. And by “we”, I mean no one. Now get to work, Agent.
Architecto Game Review
Architecto is part of the Architecto line, puzzle games that focus on spatial visualization by building structures out of blocks. The 3-dimensional structure puzzles start out simple and gradually progress to more difficult and challenging puzzles. This allows Little Geeks and Big Geeks alike to sit down at the table and play the game at their pace and comfort level. The game also allow for easy free-form play and invites the player to build whatever they can imagine.
Archon: Glory and Machination Game Review
The great city of Cardis is the home of the kingdom’s trade and culture. It’s for this reason the King has appointed several archons to govern and protect the city so it might flourish and benefit the realm. But an archon cannot rule a city alone. They must get help from influential Magisters and earn the trust of the people. Easier said than done.
Arcova: Aftermath Game Review
The land knew nothing but peace under the wise and benevolent rule of King Baelon Rhakal. But all kings must die, and so it was with Rhakal. The throne stood empty and the land mourned. The heirs to the throne fought among themselves for succession and the land began to suffer. Wars, famine, and death soon followed. Now all is in ruin and the mighty kingdom has fallen into dust. You have arisen from this destruction to rebuild the kingdom in your image. Gather your forces and heal the land.
Are You A Werewolf? Game Review
The small village used to be a happy place. The townspeople knew everyone by their first name, doors were never locked, and everyone was friendly towards each other. Then, one night, the body of a poor stable boy was found in the barn, murdered. And the murderer? No one knows for sure, but there are dark whispers that a werewolf is to blame. Now friends are foes, doors are locked during the day and night, and trust has turned to suspicion. And the murders continue…
Arena Gladiators Game Review
You are the owner and trainer of gladiators. You have fought in the arena yourself, killed and survived. You were awarded your freedom and your future. Now you spend your days training the next generation of gladiators to fight ruthlessly and die bravely. The sun has risen and the arena is filling with spectators eager to watch life and death play out before them. Today men will die and legends will be born.
Arena of Heroes Game Review
The roar of the crowd thunders in your ears as you squint in the bright light of day. All around you are mobs of people who call your name followed by shouts of luck and boos of disapproval. As a gladiator, you are used to it. Some of the spectators support you and some do not, but none of that matters. The only thing that is on your mind is surviving, and with each battle you win, your legend and notoriety grows. Let them boo. Let them cheer. But let them never doubt your courage and prowess as a warrior! Brandishing your weapon, you charge your first opponent of the day and tempt fate.
Argh! Game Review
The nondescript island is barely a scratch on your nautical maps. If one were to glance quickly, many would mistake the mark as nothing more than a small stain. But you know better. The little island has no name, but it’s known by a select few as “Plunder Island”. There, buried in the white sand, are riches beyond imagine. You have gathered the wealth with the help of others, but now it’s time to claim the riches for your own!
Armor Up Game Review
There is a dragon at the gates! The village is burning! The King is demanding all the knights rush out and fight the dreaded beast! There is no time to plan. You only have a few minutes to get to the armory and grab whatever is at hand. Good thing you know your way around a sword and shield, but being rushed never feels good. Having only minutes to decide, you grab your gear and pray it’s enough to take down the giant monster burning your beloved kingdom.
Ars Victor Game Review (prepublished version)
The soldiers were hunkered down behind their barricade on the outskirts of the small settlement. They had solid intel that the enemy was advancing on their position, but the distant treeline made it difficult to see the enemy approach. Then came a rumbling that sounded like thunder and the soldiers looked up into the cloudless sky. Too late, they realized that the enemy was advancing from above! Both sides fire at each from the ground and the sky, while a large cannon emerges from the treeline, unnoticed.
Art Deco Game Review
Your crazy Great Aunt Hattie has passed. Honestly, you thought she’d bury you all, but age and those 10 cigars a day finally caught up with her. After the exceedingly expensive funeral, you and other family members gather to hear the reading of the Will. The lawyer clears his throat and reads the first line of the legal document out loud: “My dearest relatives, I have one last game I want to play with you…” What is your Great Aunt up to now?
Art Deco: Lost Cousins Game Expansion Review
“STOP!” yells a voice from the back of the room. The entire family turns to look at two individuals who have just interrupted the lawyer’s reading of your Great Aunt Hattie’s Will. “The Will you are reading is incorrect! I have here an amendment sent to me no less than a week ago!” The strange man hands a letter to the lawyer, who looks it over with a furrowed brow. “I see,” says the lawyer. “So we are to believe you are long-lost relatives?” Great. More family…
Attack on Titan: The Last Stand Game Review
A titan has breached the walls of the city! It’s up to you and your small team to take it down before it devours the nearby citizens. You’ll need to risk it all and be prepared to sacrifice everything to complete your mission. Your enemy is a relentless eating machine. It only knows how to devour, but is far from stupid. Work together to take down the giant and save the day!
Avatar: The Last Airbender Fire Nation Rising Game Review
The Fire Nation continues to raid neighboring kingdoms and lands aggressively. Those who stand against this onslaught are quickly put down. A small group of heroes, led by the legendary Avatar, fight the Fire Nation on multiple fronts. But this is not a battle you can win alone. You must work with others, plan your strategy, and execute your tactics cooperatively. Do it right, and you’ll stay one step ahead of the Fire Nation, restoring Balance. Do it wrong, and Ruin will undoubtedly come to the world.
Awkward Moment Game Review
It happens to everyone when you least expect it. Something is said out-of-place, a reaction is given, and a very long and painful silence ensues. Ah, awkward moments, how I loath thee. But these impossibly long stretches of discomfort need not end in tears! If you have your wits about you, you can emerge from a very awkward situation glittering with class! This game gives you a chance to practice slashing the most awkward of moments in twain!
Babylon Gardens Game Review
The Gardens of Babylon are considered to be one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. They are also believed, by some scholars and historians, to be a myth. Regardless, the garden’s location and existence brings to mind exotic plants, intoxicating smells from vibrant flowers, and cool shade among babbling water fountains. In this game, you will be tasked to tend to these gardens and gather the flowers, but do so wisely. A flower picked is a flower earned, but not all flowers are created equal.
Backyard Builders Treehouse
If you are going to build a treehouse, you need to build it right. This means adding a rope ladder, a lookout post, a marshmallow sentry gun, a juice bar, and various other “necessities”. In this game, each player will be tasked to create a treehouse of their dreams, but each must meet certain construction standards. Careful how you build, as decisions have long-lasting impacts.
Bad Beets Game Review
I remember cauliflower being the worst thing in the world. I would scream and cry at the dinner table when it was served. Yeah, I was a great kid. My mom would cover it in sauces, melted cheese, and even attempted to hide it. No matter how hard she tried, my cauliflower always ended up on the floor. In this game, you’ll be doing the same, but don’t get caught!
Bad Decisions Game Review
Sergeant Stryker, in the film Sands of Iwo Jima, says “Life is tough, but it’s tougher if you’re stupid.”So true. For those poor souls who are unfortunate enough to be born without common sense, just walking across the street can be full of trials and tribulations. In this game, the worse off you are, the better you do. Prepare to laugh, as stupid is as stupid does.
Bad Karma Game Review
The actions we take either further our own goals or the goals of others. Some believe the more we give, the more we will receive in this world and the next. Karma is like a celestial accountant, keeping track of all that we do and writing little tick marks in various columns. In this game, you are doing all you can to cook the celestial accounting books to balance in your favor.
Bad Neighbors Game Review
It was bound to happen. When the Zombie-Alien-Demon-Vampire Apocalypse erupted, your family was prepared for the worst. What you didn’t count on, ironically, was your neighborhood. The biggest threat is not the giant undead half-demon munching on your grandmother. Rather, it’s your neighbors who are quietly spying on you from behind closed curtains. This game is all about the survival of the fittest in the suburbs. Lock, load, and live!
Bag of Chips Game Review
American celebrity fitness guru, entrepreneur, and former New York City Ballet dancer Mary Helen Bowers said, “Even if you’re having a snack, enjoying it in a beautiful teacup or on a lovely plate makes it feel like more of an event.” Players will enjoy this colorful game of risk and reward with friends at their table. The game is genuinely “snack size” in length and table space requirements, but will it leave our players feeling full and satisfied or make them crave something more substantial?
Baldrich’s Tomb Game Review
The old adventurer sitting at the inn table looks tired, worn, and beaten. He tries to smile, fails, and instead just looks at his mug of warm ale. He says there’s a treasure to be found that he will pay you to find. He’d get it himself, but he’s in no shape to do so and not as young as he once was. He’ll pay you up front and you are welcome to keep all the treasure you find along the way. When you ask him what the catch is, he mumbles something about a crumbling tomb, monsters, and a rampaging ghost. You shrug. A jobs a job and you could use the gold. Time to go make a living the hard way.
Balloon Lagoon Game Review
Sometimes a game can have a really brilliant concept or novel component but also have some flaw in its design that makes it about half as fun as it could be. That’s the case with Balloon Lagoon.
Banana Hammock Game Review (prepublished version)
Working at a banana packing company has its perks. The hours aren’t bad, and you get to eat all the bananas you like. The only problem is that your bosses are monkeys. Not as in “intolerable imbeciles that cannot run a business.” We are talking real monkeys: tails and all with a penchant for eating your bananas. You have to meet your packing quota, but those monkeys won’t leave you alone. You’ll need to be creative and fast to pack as much as you can before you are overwhelmed by all the monkey business.
Banishment Game Review
English singer-songwriter and actor, Eric Burdon, said “Inside each of us, there is the seed of both good and evil. It’s a constant struggle as to which one will win. And one cannot exist without the other.” In this game, evil and good take different sides, fighting against the other for control. Time is on the side of evil, but those who champion good have many tools at their disposal to obtain victory. Who wins between the two is a matter of smart card plays and impeccable timing.
Barbecue Game Review
Grilling is an art form. One must prepare the meat, the grill, and oneself before lighting the fire and grabbing the grill tongs. Ever since the day Neanderthals figured out that meat tasted better when dropped in the fire, humanity has gathered around open flame to watch grease pop, meat sizzle, and vegetables roast. The grill has become something of a social oasis that we gather around, share ideas, and breath in the smells of the meal that is being prepared. It’s also stressful as hell. Cook your meat wrong and you’re going to be ordering pizza. In this game, you have to step up to the grill and face the heat or get burned.
BaristaCat Game Review (prepublished version)
American lawyer and statesman who served as the 16th president of the United States, Abraham Lincoln, said, “If this is coffee, please bring me some tea; but if this is tea, please bring me some coffee.” It amuses me to think how difficult a customer President Lincoln would have been if he had a coffee shop nearby. I mean, come on dude, make up your mind. But nothing compares to the customers in this game that demand their coffee meow and won’t leave until they get it. So do what you can to please the customers, but keep in mind at all times that you need to get paid, too.
Barnyard Legions Game Review (prepublished version)
Publius Cornelius Tacitus said, “Deos fortioribus adesse.” Which means, in English, “The gods are on the side of the stronger.” In this game, victory will most assuredly go to the stronger army, but strategy and tactics are the true weapons of war. Lead your army across the battleground to claim the Barnyard! Defeat is not an option.
Barrage Battle Game Review (prepublished version)
The 18th President of the United States, Ulysses S. Grant, said “The art of war is simple enough. Find out where your enemy is. Get at him as soon as you can. Strike him as hard as you can, and keep moving.” In this game, the trick to victory is pressing the advantage, but striking it with a balance. Warmongers will have might on their side, while those who seek other routes will find different roads to victory.
Batman Fluxx Game Review
The city of Gotham has become a cesspool of crime and villainy. The police are helpless to stop the onslaught, despite the backing of politicians and the general populace. All looks helpless in the light of day, but in the darkness of night, Gotham’s savior emerges. Part detective, part vigilante, Batman now hunts the hunters, bringing them to justice one Bat Punch at a time.
Batman: The Animated Series – Almost Got ‘Im Game Review
Batman: The Animated Series premiered on television in 1992 and ran until 1995. It was exceedingly well received by fans and critics alike for its excellent writing, superb art direction, and outstanding voice acting. One of the many memorable episodes was when Batman hid among a group of villains who were playing cards and telling stories about how they almost got Batman. You can find that episode online, and I suggest you give it a shot. An excellent story with a surprise ending. This game attempts to capture the feeling of that episode, pitting one player as Batman, hiding in plain sight, against a table full of enemies. Can Batman stay hidden, or will he get caught? Play the game and find out.
Battle Bodies Game Review
Aliens have abducted humans over the centuries and are now battling them in their arena. However, they are not content to have any old battle. They have taken the abducted and separated them so they can mix, match, and build their perfect warrior. You are one of those aliens, and you have at your disposal many disembodied people to put together as you wish to build – literally – your perfect soldiers. Enter the arena and battle!
Battle for Sularia Game Review (prepublished version)
Sularia was once a planet of beauty and majesty. The people who populated it lived in peace and prosperity, but that is the past. The vast gardens teaming with life are now dusty plains. The great cities that once reached to the heavens now lay in ruin. You would see your people rise above the death and decay. Gather your forces and battle to claim the precious resources necessary to bring the planet back to life, as your will decrees.
Battle for Supremacy: Heroes vs. Villains Game Review
The streets of the city are deserted. Everyone knows that this day of all days is the one to stay indoors, behind thick walls, and under cover. For today is the final conflict between good and evil. The greatest super heroes have assembled to battle the most notorious super villains one last time. There is only one rule: winner takes all. On one side of the street stand those who champion justice and order. On the other, crime and chaos. Which side do you favor and who will win the final battle for supremacy over the world?
Battle Sheep Game Review
Chances are you’ve heard the saying, “the grass is always greener on the other side.” This saying suggests that other circumstances are seemingly more desirable than an individual’s current reality. Which might or might not be true. But what if there is no “other side”? Wouldn’t you want as much of that grass (regardless of color) as possible? In this game, you’ll be leading your sheep to expand and control limited pasture space. There are no wolves in this game. Just a lot of aggressive mutton.
Beets Bombs and the Blüffs Game Review
American novelist Tom Robbins, reportedly said “The beet is the most intense of vegetables. The radish, admittedly, is more feverish, but the fire of the radish is a cold fire, the fire of discontent, not of passion. Tomatoes are lusty enough, yet there runs through tomatoes an undercurrent of frivolity. Beets are deadly serious.” In this game, Tom is absolutely correct. Plant your beets and hope you get them before your neighbors. But be careful! In the fields are also bombs intended to make quick work of would-be beet thieves! Pick your plants wisely.
Before I Kill You, Mister Spy Game Review
There is a covert war taking place that’s invisible to everyone. Various spy agencies battle it out in the shadows in hopes of obtaining political control. However, very few know about you, the true puppet master. Occasionally a spy will have the misfortune of learning more than they should. Such curiosity cannot be tolerated, but it’s not all bad. Eliminating enemy agents can be fun.
Befuzzled Game Review
Befuzzeled is a fun and fast party game that will be enjoyed by the family and at social gatherings. Light rules, fast game play, and fun social interaction create a wonderful experience full of laughter. Gamer Geeks will not get much out of this game other than a chuckle, but Parent and Child Geeks are going to love playing this game with their family and friends. Think quick, act faster! This game will keep everyone at the family gaming table on their toes and laughing out loud!
Belfort Game Review
Belfort is a great game, great fun, and wonderfully challenging. I recommend Belfort to Gamer Geeks but only if they enjoy worker placement games. The game has lots of bits, demands a lot from its players, and takes about 2 hours to complete. Mental stamina is a must as every round is as important as the last and the players must constantly be engaged in the game in order to be competitive.
Belle of the Ball Game Review (prepublished version)
To socialites, it’s very important to be seen at the right time, at the right place, wearing the right apparel. Just as important is who you are seen with. When it comes time to organize a large social gathering, getting the best caterer is just as important as getting the right guests. In this game, you must compete with other socialites to claim people of importance in hopes of creating the perfect party. The stakes could not be higher. Everyone of importance is watching and gossiping.
Bellum Fabulis Game Review
Spanish-American philosopher, essayist, poet, and novelist Jorge Agustín Nicolás Ruiz de Santayana y Borrás, said, “Only the dead see the end of war.” Which is a very sobering and dark reminder for us all. But in this game, even the dead may not rest as they can be brought back and commanded to fight on behalf of the player. In this world, ravaged by war and supernatural catastrophes, players lead their armies in a broken land to conquer their foes and bring all under their control. Take up your sword, raise the dead warrior legends of the past, and march upon your opponent’s castle. To the victory go the spoils and the world.
Bellwether: The School of Wizards Game Review
Bellwether is a game that brings fun, excitement, frustration, and unbridled exuberance to the table. The game is challenging but quick to start playing. The end result is an incredibly good time where you’ll be biting you finger tips as the players count their victory points. Truly a wonderful game I cannot wait to play again!
Best Treehouse Ever Game Review
German-born theoretical physicist and father of the theory of relativity, Albert Einstein, said “The true sign of intelligence is not knowledge but imagination.” I remember running around the house with my brothers playing epic games where we built huge forts out of pillows and later climbed trees to create castles in the sky. In this game, players can flex their imagination muscle to create an epic treehouse, but make sure you maintain a semblance of order and balance.
Between Two Cities Game Review (prepublished version)
American businessman James E. Casey said, “One measure of your success will be the degree to which you build up others who work with you. While building up others, you will build up yourself.” Mr. Casey’s statement holds true within the context of this game. You must cooperatively build a city with a partner on your left and on your right. But don’t be too generous. While this game does require cooperation, only 1 player can be the winner.
Big Bad Fables Game Review (prepublished version)
American entrepreneur, animator, voice actor, and film producer Walt Disney said, “All cartoon characters and fables must be an exaggeration and caricatures. It is the very nature of fantasy and fable.” Stories capture our imagination and serve to not only entertain, but to teach. Embedded in the stories we were told as children are lessons to learn. Danger and hope lurk in our nursery rhymes and fables. There are monsters and heroes. In this game, the Big Bad Wolf is out-and-about, but safety can be had if a sturdy house is built.
Big Top Game Review
To run a successful business, you have to know what your customers want. You have a sideshow, performers, animals, and more clowns than you know what to do with. But what do your customers want to see? Should you focus on the animals or shine the spotlight on the performers? Knowing what will sell tickets is key to having the “greatest show on Earth”.
Bigfoot Game Review
Stories are told of a large man-like creature that roams the woods. He’s said to be 10 to 12 feet tall and is more ape than man. Cryptozoologists have searched the area for years but have never been able to provide definitive proof of this creature’s existence. That’s about to change – maybe – as one very determined scientist enters the woods with is gear. In the shadows, Bigfoot rolls his eyes and mutters, “Oh, not again.”
Bigfootses Game Review
The legend of Bigfoot is an old one. From all over the world, you can find stories of people wandering into a large manlike creature with hair and a penchant for disappearing quickly without a trace. There are some who have dedicated their life to finding this elusive creature. Whether it’s for fame, fortune, or simply curiosity, you now join the hunt for Bigfoot!
Bingo Dice Game Review (prepublished version)
Indian politician, television personality and former cricketer, Navjot Singh Sidhu, said “One who doesn’t throw the dice can never expect to score a six.” Depending on the game (and the context), that is either a good thing or a bad thing. In the case of this game, you want a six, but not always. And when you want that six is critical to winning or making someone else lose. Pick up the dice and let them roll!
Biotix Game Review
Denis Diderot, a French philosopher, art critic, and writer said, “There are three principal means of acquiring knowledge… observation of nature, reflection, and experimentation. Observation collects facts; reflection combines them; experimentation verifies the result of that combination.” In this game, players will be mixing and matching different meeples to create a big win or a big bang.
Birds of a Feather Game Review (prepublished version)
Observing our feathered friends has been a pastime enjoyed for generations. It allows an individual to explore their backyard or surrounding wilderness to catch sight of birds both big and small. There are birdwatching books, clubs, websites, and now a game. Visit different locations, spot birds, and rack up the points. The player with the best birding instincts will win the day.
Bit Shift Game Review
Any programmer who knows their stuff can tell you what a “bit” is. For those who don’t know, it’s the smallest unit of information capable on a machine. While a human will only see a zero or a one, the computer reads it as “True” or “False”, “On” or “Off”, and “Yes” or “No”. Essentially the base of the most basic of decision making requirements. While this game will not teach you how to program, it will most certainly get your brain working.
Black-Handed Henry’s Potion Party Game Review
Black-Handed Henry is a dangerous and unstable person. He’s made his living being a terror at sea and he is used to getting his way. Right now, he only has one thing on his mind: a potion. He growls at you saying, “Listen ‘er, you grubby maggots. I have a terrible thirst! Brew me my potion and you live! Fail and I toss you overboard!” Now that’s what I call motivation!
Blackstone Castle Game Review (prepublished version)
American lawyer, U.S. Representative, social activist and a leader of the Women’s Movement, Bella Abzug, said “I spend all day figuring out how to beat the machine and knock the crap out of the political power structure.” A task easier said than done. In this game, players will be attempting to do the same as Ms. Abzug, manipulating the machine and adjusting the power structure in hopes of one day ruling the kingdom.
Blast Tactics Game Review
Games requiring strategic and tactical thought often take much time and attention. Frequently, these games have a “slow burn” as players make minor adjustments to shift their footing to find solid ground for victory. The same can be said for this game but without the need to spend a good hour plotting and planning. No, you have less than 30 minutes to outmaneuver your foes, set your traps, and get out of the way before things get explosive.