Zombie Ninja Pirates is a fun little game which is most certainly in the "beer and pretzels" category or, for our little geeks, "apple juice and graham crackers". It's meant to be a "flash in the pan" type of game where you plop it out on the table, play a few games, and then move on without having to exercise a large percentage of our brain. In this, the game does exceedingly well.
There is more to our geek hobby than board games. Oh, so very, very much more. There are card games, dice games, live action games, role playing games, and the list goes on and on. One of the most visually stunning games of our collective hobby is also one of the most expensive and, some would argue, the most intimidating. I speak of the fantastic and always popular tabletop miniature wargaming.
Our family loves to play games together, but like many other families, our budget is tight. Some would say that games fall cleanly into the Wants category, and not Needs, and while that might be true, spending time bonding with your family over an interactive and (usually) intellectual medium like a board game can be very important.
Todd Edwards continues to impress me, both as a writer, a father, and as a geek. His latest book, Nerni's Ingenious Invention, is a wonderful addition to the growing Nerni universe that was started and continues to grow through stories at bedtime with his daughter.
Little ones will enjoy these toys for several reasons. First, moving parts always intrigue children. With the vehicle mode, geeklings will be able to roll and crash their way to discovery. Second, with the robot mode, they will enjoy playacting and storytelling. If you relish your own memories of the Transformers, these toys are a simple way to pass on your Cybertronian love.
Attention: This game has been re-reviewed to accurately reflect the game in its final form. Please see the new review for full details.