i-Poster My Body, By Best Learning - REVIEW

 Nature / Type:            Educational posters 

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

Recommended age:     5 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Parents looking for interactive & exciting educational resources for young kids  

The Best Learning - i-Poster My Body is the educational toy you wish existed when you were younger and totally confused by the mysteries of human anatomy. This interactive poster makes muscles, bones, and organs sound genuinely cool and exciting!

Why I love ❤️ it:

(1) Talking Poster - Point & Learn Fun Facts About Human Anatomy

In short: this is a talking poster where you simply point to a body part to learn. The set comes with one electronic base “Body” poster plus three magnetically clip-on posters, and I really appreciate that 3 AAA batteries are included. To use it: press the big round Start button, then the Go button so it can identify the poster you’re using. From there, press any body part to learn more. For example, tap “Cerebellum” on the yellow Organs poster and you’ll learn it’s the brain region responsible for motor control - coordinating posture, balance, and movement. Press “Legs”, and it explains they’re weight-bearing structures (including the thigh, foot, and hip) and then dives into their functions: standing, walking, jumping, running, kicking, dancing. I love the age-appropriate details provided! 

(2) 4 Interchangeable Posters - Body, Organs, Bones, Muscles

It includes four interchangeable posters: Body, Organs, Bones, and Muscles. The Body poster acts as the magnetic base, with embedded corners that securely hold the others. Once you press Go, the poster is automatically detected. The Body poster is perfect for preschoolers, covering basics like hair, ear, neck, shoulder, and knee. Ready for more challenge? Organs introduces lungs, kidneys, pancreas, cerebrum, appendix, and more. Older kids - and even grown-ups - will love the Bones and Muscles posters with real anatomical terms like Cervical vertebra, Metacarpals, and Tibialis anterior.

(3) Quiz Button - Basic Quiz + Advanced Quiz

My personal favorite: the Quiz button with two difficulty levels. The basic quiz asks kids to find a named body part (e.g. “Find the Biceps brachii”), while the advanced quiz gives clues based on function - like “Choose the organ in the abdomen that helps with digestion.” I love the built-in encouragement and just-right challenge.

(4) Volume Control & Other Features

Extra features include volume control, Learn & Repeat mode, and I love it can lie flat or hang on the wall! 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://www.amazon.com.au/Best-Learning-i-Poster-My-Body/dp/B075LFR5KZ/ref=ast_sto_dp_puis

Enjoy the video! 

Cascadia Junior, By Flatout Games - REVIEW

Nature / Type:             Board game 

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

Recommended age:     6 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Junior board-game lovers - perfect for preschoolers and early primary kids 

Cascadia Junior is the latest addition to the beloved Cascadia universe, released in 2025 by Flatout Games and created especially for kids. It’s a gentle, calming experience - a rare gem in the often loud and frantic world of children’s games. Big thanks to Let's Play Games for sending us a copy!

Why I love ❤️ this game: 

(1) Straightforward Rules - Line Up 3 Same Animals To Earn An Animal Token

The rules are wonderfully straightforward. Each player starts with a tile to begin their environment. On your turn, you’ll choose one of two available tiles, each showing land types and animals, and place it so at least one edge touches your growing map. If placing a tile lines up three of the same animal together, you’ll cover them with Wildlife Tokens and add an animal token to your panorama. Play continues like this for 10 turns, with players building habitats and gathering animals along the way. At the end, you’ll score points for large habitat groups and flip your tokens to reveal pinecones - whoever has the most pinecones wins the game!

(2) Tile Placement Game With Simple Decision-Making & Strategy

Cascadia Junior takes the puzzly, pattern-building charm of the original and makes it perfect for preschoolers and early primary kids - while still keeping parents entertained. It gently teaches planning through tile placement and drafting, balancing simplicity with just enough challenge. Grouping habitats is especially fun: three tiles earn you one token, but six tiles earn you two - do you go big, or spread them out? And with scoring tokens hiding 1 or 2 pinecones each, there’s a dash of luck and suspense right up to the end. My 6- and 9-year-old loved it so much we played several rounds back-to-back!

(3) Advanced Variant Available For More Challenge

For players craving a bit more challenge, the game includes advanced rules. You’ll now need to place animals in specific patterns. It’s a clever step up from simple match-3, encouraging kids to think about both patterns and positioning. 

(4) Beautiful Storybook-Feel Artwork

The artwork by Beth Sobel gives Cascadia Junior a lovely storybook feel, with watercolor animals and a charming Panorama board that kids adore. As they add tokens, the board turns into a little play scene - bears looking for salmon, foxes roaming the forest - sparking creativity and storytelling. 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://www.gamesworld.com.au/product/cascadia-junior/

Find your local game stores here: https://www.localgamestores.com.au/

Enjoy the video!

Backpacker, By Wild Card Games - REVIEW

Nature / Type:             Card game 

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️  

Recommended age:     10 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Anyone who enjoys a travel-theme card game (especially if you don't mind some "cutthroat" elements) 

Backpacker by Wild Card Games captures the thrill of travel without leaving your seat. You’ll hop across countries, collect snapshots, and watch hilarious mishaps unfold - all with zero real-life consequences (except maybe your game spiraling downhill). Huge thanks to Divisible by Zero for adding another gem to our collection.

Why I love ❤️ it: 

(1) Travel-Theme Card Game With Countries, Experiences & Dramas

The game runs on a big deck of cards - your countries and experiences all add to your score, while mishaps like visa issues, flight delays, or sudden sickness can knock you back. Each player starts with five cards and on their turn can either ‘Draw and Play’ or decide to ‘Go Home’. You’ll lay down Country cards (no more than two of the same continent), play Event cards that can be good or disastrous (like blue bonus cards for extra points or stubborn grey cards that hit you with penalties until resolved), or simply discard. Once home, you tally your countries, bonuses, and even snag an extra 200 points if you’ve collected five different continents. Highest score wins!

(2) Thrilling Game With Painful Grey Cards & Special Event Cards

I’m torn on this game - it’s a thrill when your countries and bonuses stack up, but it can be downright brutal when bad luck hits. Getting stuck with a grey card that forces you to skip three turns feels painful (even if you can sometimes pass the misery to someone else - karma comes fast!). There are plenty of cutthroat moments too, like stealing another player’s country, or deciding whether to push for that 200-point bonus with five continents and risk disaster striking. The pink and yellow Special Event cards add even more chaos and variety -letting you break rules, swap cards, score extra, or even escape with a grey card in hand. Frustration is frequent, but so is the fun.

(3) Beginner Variant With Only Basic Cards 

There’s also a beginner variant that sticks to the essential basic cards - simple, peaceful, and easy to teach, but it can wear thin quickly. The real excitement kicks in once the Event cards enter play, adding all the drama and unpredictability.

(4) Portable - Perfect For Road Trips

Backpacker is just a deck of cards and a rule sheet, making it wonderfully portable. It barely takes up space on the table and is perfect to pack for trips. 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Check out my reviews on more Wild Card Games: 

• Ah-Harr!, by Wild Card Games
• Mapominoes - Asia & Australia, by Wild Card Games

Where to buy this: 

https://www.cowtrees.au/educational-toys/487-back-packer-card-game.html

Enjoy the video! 

Cloud Flexagons, By Tranquil Learning Collective - REVIEW

Nature / Type:             Crotched Toy

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

Recommended age:     3 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Younger kids / Parents looking for calming, sensory toys 

Have you ever seen a fidget toy as beautiful as this? The Cloud Flexagons from Tranquil Learning Collective are soft, lovable, and incredibly calming. These heartwarming amigurumi creations have completely captured my heart!

Why I love ❤️ it: 

(1) A Crocheted Amigurumi - Flexed & Folded

This toy is inspired by the origami hexaflexagon, a brilliant three-dimensional creation that can be turned in multiple directions to reveal distinct faces. Its pyramid-like edges can be flexed and folded, producing an array of mesmerizing patterns that are both intriguing and satisfying. The crochet texture adds an extra layer of sensory pleasure, making it irresistible to touch and flip over and over. The design offers soothing tactile stimulation, engaging both hands and mind in a calming, almost addictive way. It’s the perfect gift for restless hands, providing a sensory experience that’s both relaxing and stimulating. That’s the magic of a crocheted amigurumi!

(2) Incredibly Plush & Squishy

This is the softest crocheted yarn toy I’ve ever touched. It’s incredibly plush and squishy, like a cloud in your hands. The gentle texture helps nurture focus and concentration, making it the perfect tactile experience.

(3) Silent Fidget Toy

I love that this fidget toy is completely silent—not a sound when flipping or moving it. Its quiet, unassuming nature makes it all the more charming, almost like a sweet scrunchie or a soft decorative accessory you can wear around your wrist, taking it with you wherever you go. Tranquil Learning Collective offers a variety of designs and color schemes, but I personally think I got one of the prettiest—its soft pastel hues are not only captivating but also incredibly soothing. These squishable 3D pieces double as beautiful decorations while offering a comforting tactile experience. This playful crochet flexagon makes a wonderful gift for children, combining interactivity, color, and sensory fun. It’s also perfect for adults seeking a discreet, calming fidget tool during work.

(4) Eco-Friendly & Non-Plastic

This eco-friendly, non-plastic fidget toy is both cute and sustainable, making it a kind choice for the environment. Made from soft and thick yarn, it’s completely safe to use by kids and adults. 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

Contact Tranquil Learning Collective

Enjoy the video! 

Wooden Fantasy Puzzle - Treasure Chest, By Let’s Play Games - REVIEW

Nature/ Type:              Wooden puzzle 

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

Recommended age:     14 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Older kids/ adults who love a puzzle challenge! 

Every time I receive a wooden puzzle from Let's Play Games , I know I’m in for a spellbinding experience - where time seems to pause and the day instantly feels brighter. And once again, they’ve delivered. This time, it’s the Wooden Fantasy Puzzle - Treasure Chest.

Why I ❤️ this puzzle: 

(1) 200 Uniquely Shaped Puzzle Pieces

The Treasure Chest packs 200 uniquely shaped pieces - none of those neat, predictable borders you find in a traditional puzzle. Instead, it bursts with the wild, jagged silhouette of a treacherous chest: a gaping mouth lined with razor-sharp fangs, a grotesquely long tongue, and writhing tentacles guarding a hoard of gold like a dragon from some enchanted realm. It’s a scene straight out of a high-stakes fantasy - approach if you dare! I’d wager this is the most dramatic puzzle in the LPG collection. The pieces themselves are unapologetically tricky: swirls, sharp lines, and shapes so irregular - and so deceptively alike - that matching them is a test of both wit and patience. Sorting colors alone is an adventure: a rich clash of funky purples, deep reds, glints of gold coin yellow that could belong anywhere, and ghostly greys for those menacing fangs. Add in the stony granite floor - and you’ve got a puzzle that hooks you from first touch to the final fit.

(2) Discover Delightful Surprises Within

These are miniature works of art, each carved into wild shapes that twist and curl like ancient symbols. This puzzle tests your spatial skills and intuition with every move, but the real magic lies in its hidden treasures. Nestled within the irregular shapes are delightful surprises: a golden skeletal skull, a mischievous mini monster chest, a palm, an octopus, a wizard, a rainbow axe, a spider, and more. It’s a treasure hunt, where every piece feels like unlocking a secret.

(3) Laser-Cut From High Quality Wood

As with every wooden puzzle we’ve experienced from LPG, the Treasure Chest is a testament to craftsmanship. Each piece is precision laser-cut from high-quality wood. The colors are rich and bold, the fit is satisfyingly smooth, and the completed artwork is nothing short of mesmerizing. Presented in a beautifully crafted wooden box, it’s as perfect for display as it is for storage. 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://www.gamesmen.com.au/let-s-play-games-fantasy-series-01-treasure-chest-mimic-200-piece-wooden-jigsaw-puzzle

https://www.goodgames.com.au/products/lpg-puzzles-wooden-fantasy-puzzle-treasure-chest-preorder?_pos=2&_sid=f33036cc9&_ss=r

Find your local game stores here: https://www.localgamestores.com.au/

Enjoy the video!

Spin and Trap, By Recent Toys - REVIEW

Nature / Type:             Board game/ tabletop game 

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

Recommended age:     7 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Anyone who enjoys abstract + strategy games

I’m usually not one for abstract games - they scramble my brain more than they should, but every now and then, one comes along that completely charms me. Spin and Trap from Recent Toys did just that! Huge thanks to Divisible by Zero for the copy - this game is a gem!

Why I ❤️ it: 

(1) Spin The Balls Using Rotators - Trap 2 Green Balls To Win

It’s abstract, but it’s got a super fresh and clever concept. Inside the box - you will find two unique rotators, a game board, and 21 balls (3 green, 9 black, 9 white). You set up the board as shown in the rules, then players take turns spinning sections of the board using either a 3-ball or 6-ball rotator. The rotators are cleverly designed tools that are placed over the balls- There’s a triad rotator, which essentially rotates three enclosed spheres around the shared point between them, and the big rotator - which shifts all 6 balls around the central one, which must be your own color or a green ball. Think fidget spinner meets strategy puzzle! The aim? Trap the green balls (one at a time) by surrounding it with your colour. Once you trap a green ball, it’s removed - then pop in one of your own colour to take its place, giving you a sneaky little edge for the next move. Capture two green balls, and you win!

(2) A Game Packed With Sneaky Strategy 

This sneaky strategy game makes your brain do pirouettes. You can’t just copy your opponent - moves must result in a new layout each turn. You’ve got to think a few spins ahead. One wrong move you might have handed your opponent a green ball on a silver platter! Every rotation shifts the whole board’s balance. Victory might be one twist away! 

(3) Amazing Components - Chunky & Glossy Marbles + Smartly Designed Board

Let’s talk components (oh, love them!) The chunky, glossy marbles feel amazing to play with. The concave board holds them snugly in place, and the colour palette is modern and slick. Best surprise? Flip the board over and voilà - hidden storage for all the pieces. Press the base and the marbles roll out smoothly. It’s travel-ready and totally satisfying.

(4) Play Competitively Or Solo Mode

Bonus: There’s a solo mode too! You set it up the same, but the challenge is now to trap all three green balls by yourself. Perfect for quiet brainy evenings.

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://www.cowtrees.au/educational-toys/721-spin-and-trap.html (Australia) 

Enjoy the video! 

Forage, The Bee Game, A Kickstarter Project - REVIEW

Nature / Type:             Board game 

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

Recommended age:     8 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Anyone (kids/ adults) who love colourful strategy games with sneaky tactics 

“Forage, The Bee Game” is hands-down one of the most visually stunning tabletop games I’ve ever played! And guess what - it’s now officially live on Kickstarter! Please buzz over, give Forage, The Bee Game a follow, some love, and - if you’re feeling generous - some sweet, sweet backing nectar!

Why I love ❤️ it: 

(1) A Delightful Game With Bees Zip Across Board To Collect Flowers 

The setup is a delightful ritual: each player picks a hive (radiant yellow, red, blue, or green) and a matching Forager Bee. Lay out the colourful fabric board, place the Sun Tracker, arrange the Dandelions, Sunflowers, Eucalyptus, and Mānuka, pop the bear in the centre, set the four season decks, choose your hive location - and go! A game lasts 12 rounds. Each round, the sun advances, the bear lumbers around via dice roll, and your bees zip across the board collecting flowers. Opponents can rob your undefended hive; the bear can storm in, gobble half your flowers, and wipe out your bees; you can breed new bees, sting the bear (sacrificing a brave little bee), or bump rivals back home. Season cards add unpredictable twists. When Winter arrives, players tally flower values - bonus points for sets of three - to crown the strongest hive.

(2) Decision-Making Strategy Game For Players Of All Ages 

The decision-making is fantastic - simple enough for kids, smart enough for adults. You must choose an optimal hive location, pick flowers strategically, and decide which bees to breed next (Scouts fly farther, Workers carry more!). Sting the bear or stay safe? Bump an opponent or defend your hive? With multiple modes - Fun, Friendly, Competitive, Solo, and a 2-Player Extended mode - there’s a flavour for everyone.

(3) Learn Real Bee Science 

Best of all, you learn real bee science along the way! The seasonal flow mirrors real colony life, and the three bee types - Foragers, Scouts, Workers - are designed to reflect their real-world roles. Season cards drop fun facts, like “bee drift” during windy weather or blizzards blocking hive entrances.

(4) Gorgeous Components - Chunky & Magnetic Flower Hexes

The components are gorgeous. Chunky wooden flower hexes with embedded magnets make collecting and stacking super satisfying. The cloth board is colourful, textured, and durable. And soon, the bees and adorable bear will be upgraded to sturdy PVC!

Kickstarter Page: 

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/yari/the-bee-game

Enjoy the video! 

Munchkin Deluxe, By Steve Jackson Games - REVIEW

Nature / Type:             Board game 

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

Recommended age:     10 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Older kids/ adults who love strategy games with sneaky tactics 

I wasn’t too sure about diving into a “long” game like Munchkin Deluxe from Steve Jackson Games - a 1 to 2-hour session isn’t usually our go-to. But once we started playing, we were completely hooked! Big thanks to Let's Play Games for providing a copy. 

Why I love ❤️ this game: 

(1) Fight Monsters + Be The First To Reach Level 10 

In Munchkin Deluxe, the goal is simple: be the first to reach level 10. You start off as a basic human. Each turn, you kick down a door by flipping a “Door Card” that might reveal a monster to fight, a curse to suffer, or a new class or race. If it’s a monster, you battle using your current level and whatever “bonus” you’ve collected. Win the fight and you level up and grab some treasure! Lose, and you’d better roll a die of 5 or more to escape - or face the dreaded “Bad Stuff.” No monster? You can either go looking for trouble by fighting one from your hand or “loot the room” for more cards. Players can sell loot to level up, trade gear, backstab each other - all while wearing ridiculous boots or gears. 

(2) Each Card Is Unique And Quirky

Each card is unique and cleverly self-explanatory - from race and class cards that grant quirky perks (like Halflings who can sell items for double, Dwarves who can carry big gear), to treasure/ item cards with surprises (like a Wishing Ring that cancels a curse, a stylish Bow with Ribbons, or Leather Armour that offers just +1). Munchkin is all about grabbing what you can and causing enough chaos to trip up your friends.

(3) Sneaky Tactics - Team Up To Defeat Monster / Sabotage Each Other!

Munchkin thrives on sneaky tactics. Players can team up to defeat monsters, or sabotage each other by boosting enemy monsters or unleashing surprise twists. For example, you might save a “+10 to monster” card to ruin someone’s Level 9 victory attempt. With a 5-card hand limit, timing is everything. The chaos keeps everyone involved - you’re never just sitting there, even when it’s not your turn. 

(4) Pure, Silly Fun

This game is pure, silly fun - even the rulebook is entertaining to read! The monsters are hilariously absurd, like a Tongue Demon that plants a disgusting kiss, a headgear-eating Bigfoot, or a Lame Goblin swinging a crutch. The gear is just as ridiculous: think Horny Helmet or Boots of Butt-Kicking! 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://www.m-g.com.au/product/munchkin-deluxe/

https://www.gamesparadise.com.au/munchkin-deluxe

Find your local game stores here: https://www.localgamestores.com.au/'

Enjoy the video! 

Nature Challenge – Dogs, By Bioviva - REVIEW

Nature / Type:             Card game 

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

Recommended age:     7 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Dog-lovers! And anyone who enjoys educational card games

“Nature Challenge – Dogs” by Bioviva is an absolute treat for dog lovers! This easy-to-play card game features adorable dogs and bite-sized facts that are hard to resist. A big thanks to Divisible by Zero for providing a copy!

Why I ❤️ it: 

(1) Learn Height/ Weight/ Lifespan/ Year Of Appearance Of Your Favourite Dogs!

Each card features a different dog breed. Players take turns comparing stats like height, weight, lifespan, or the breed’s year of appearance - whoever has the highest value wins the round and takes the cards. A bit like “Top Trumps,” but with a cuter, furrier twist! To play: deal out all the cards evenly. On your turn, pick a characteristic from the top card in your hand. All players reveal their top cards and compare that stat. The highest value wins the round and collects all the top cards. The goal? Be the first to collect the whole deck! It’s the perfect way to learn quirky facts about man’s best friend. Did you know a Labrador can weigh around 35kg, while a Chihuahua weighs just 1.5kg? Or that a Greyhound stands tall at 72cm, while a Bulldog only reaches about 32cm?

(2) Colour-Coded Cards Showing Rarity

Each card is colour-coded to show how rare a breed is: green means common, yellow is vulnerable, orange is endangered, and red signals critically endangered. And here’s the twist - rarer dogs give you special powers! If you play a yellow, orange, or red card, you can change the battle category mid-round. The elegant Afghan Hound and the iconic Dalmatian are both marked red, reminding us that even famous breeds need protecting.

(3) Each Card Packs In Fun Facts

Every card packs in fun fact about the breed - Discover the Irish Setter’s incredible sense of smell that makes it a fantastic hunter, and German Shepherd, who can do it all - from herding to police work to avalanche rescues. And the photos? Absolutely heart-melting. Just look at those soulful eyes of the Siberian Husky or the gorgeous smile of the Golden Retriever!

(4) Compact Size- Perfect For Travel

Perfectly sized for travel, this compact game is easy to take anywhere. And bonus—it’s planet-friendly too! Bioviva is known for its eco-conscious approach, using FSC-certified materials, vegetable-based inks, and sustainably sourced paper. Fun for dog lovers and kind to the Earth!

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://www.cowtrees.au/educational-toys/29-nature-challenge-dogs.html (Australia) 

https://www.dragonflytoys.com.au/collections/bioviva/products/nature-challenge-dogs-card-game (Australia) 

Check out more games from Bioviva: 

• Crok, Crok, Crok, By Bioviva
• Mission Jungle, By Bioviva 
• Bioviva - The Game, By Bioviva
• Operation Survival, By Bioviva

Enjoy the video! 

Big Fish Little Fish, By Format Games - REVIEW

Nature / Type:             Card game

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

Recommended age:     7 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Kids that love speed/ reaction-based spotting games 

We’ve played plenty of reaction-based spotting games before—they’re always a big hit in our family. But Big Fish Little Fish from Format Games takes the challenge (and the giggles) to a whole new level.

Why I love ❤️ this game: 

(1) Speedy Game - Sharp Reflexes + Quick Thinking

This is a speedy game of sharp reflexes and quick thinking. Each card shows 10 quirky items across 4 colours—but the twist comes from the symbol on the back of the next card, which sets one of 6 conditions: spot the biggest thing in the world (big Earth), the smallest thing (small Earth), the item that appears the most (four dots), the item that appears the least (one dot), the colour shown the most (multi-colour dots), or the colour shown the least (single-colour dot). Flip a card, reveal the condition, and race to shout the answer! It sounds easy, but the wacky illustrations love to confuse you—we kept calling out the biggest object drawn, instead of the biggest in the reality. Add in colour-count mix-ups and you’ve got chaos! Fast, fun, and packed with laughter, this game kept everyone alert and giggling.

(2) Big Fish & Little Fish - Game With A Twist!

So why the name Big Fish Little Fish? Here’s the twist! If a card shows a Big Fish or Little Fish, players must drop the usual rules and shout ‘BIG FISH!’ (with hands wide apart) or ‘LITTLE FISH!’ (hands close together). The fastest player wins the card—and gets to steal one from the slowest! It’s not just a speed game now—it’s quick thinking plus fast-moving hands, adding an extra layer of chaos. 

(3) Add Penalty Points To Spice Up The Game

Want to spice it up? Add penalty points (as long as no one’s a sore loser!). Shout a wrong answer and you’ll lose a card from your won pile to the centre. The fastest correct player then wins those extra cards. Miss a Big or Little Fish and answer normally? Oops—hand over a card to the player who got it right! These little punishments really crank up the pressure and the laughs.

(4) Compact Game For Road Trips

This is the perfect compact game for road trips—fun for adults but easy enough to play with younger family members too. The game comes in a sturdy, cheerful box with bright, playful graphics—I especially love the colourful puffer Big Fish and Little Fish in their rainbow colours.

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://www.cowtrees.au/educational-toys/839-big-fish.html

Enjoy the video! 

Machi Koro, By Pandasaurus Games - REVIEW

Nature / Type:            Board Game 

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️    

Recommended age:    8 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Board-gamers who enjoy city-building games

Machi Koro by Pandasaurus Games is a much-loved game that’s been delighting players for years—and I’m thrilled to have recently received a copy from Let's Play Games ! It’s a light-hearted, city-building, dice-rolling game full of money-earning fun—a perfect addition to our collection.

Why I love ❤️ it: 

(1) Develop Your City & Complete 4 Landmarks To Win

This is a stylish yet surprisingly easy-to-learn game, designed for 2–4 players. Each player works to develop their own city and be the first to complete all four landmarks. Everyone starts with a Wheat Field and a Bakery, plus four face-down landmarks marked as ‘under construction.’ On your turn, you roll one or two dice. If the total matches a building you own, you activate its effect. After rolling and activating, you can either buy a new building or construct a landmark, if you’ve got the funds. As your city grows, so does your income, helping you build landmarks faster. The first to complete all four wins!

(2) Light Decision-Making + Dose Of Luck

Machi Koro is a great entry-level game that mixes light decision-making with a healthy dose of luck. It’s one of those games that’s fun for adults while still simple enough to play with kids. Do you stock up on high-reward cards like the Convenience Store (3 coins on a roll of 4 for just 2 coins), or go for nastier options like the TV Station (steal 5 coins on a 6) or the powerful Mine (5 coins on a roll of 9 by anyone)? It’s a casual, family-friendly game with just enough strategy to keep things interesting. While the base set is fairly simple, there’s plenty of fun here—and even more in the expansions!

(3) Special Power For A Twist

Each landmark also unlocks a special power that can really shift the game. Building the Train Station lets you roll two dice instead of one—useful if you’ve collected higher-number buildings. The Amusement Park gives you an extra turn when you roll doubles, the Shopping Mall boosts income from certain cards, and the Radio Station lets you re-roll once per turn. Timing when to build these can make a big difference.

(4) Clean, Modern Art Style

I love the clean, modern art style - it’s whimsical and artistic. The coins are simple but functional, with clear denominations in different sizes and colours.

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://www.gamesworld.com.au/product/machi-koro-5th-anniversary/

Find your local game stores here: https://www.localgamestores.com.au/

Enjoy the video! 

Wooden Fantasy Puzzle - Dragon Flight, By Let’s Play Games - REVIEW

Nature / Type:             Jigsaw puzzle 

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

Recommended age:     14 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Older kids/ adults that enjoy challenging, wooden jigsaw puzzles

Let's Play Games has done it again with their mesmerizing series of wooden puzzles! This “Wooden Fantasy Puzzle - Dragon Flight” takes things to a whole new level. This isn’t just a puzzle—it’s an epic quest wrapped in rich colors, intricate pieces, and magical design.

Why I ❤️ this puzzle: 

(1) 200 Uniquely Shaped Jigsaw Pieces

The Dragon Flight puzzle features 200 uniquely shaped pieces. Forget the usual clean borders of a traditional puzzle. This one embraces the wild, untamed outline of a soaring dragon—from the dramatically spiked tail to the wide, sweeping wings stretched in mid-flight. Even before the first piece clicks into place, the challenge is on. We began by sorting the pieces by color and pattern: deep blue-granite tones for the massive boulders in the dragon’s shadow, a dazzling blend of rainbow hues trailing from its tail, fiery red spikes, jagged teeth, textured scales along its powerful body, and the ornate designs etched into each wing. Between the smoky blues and the blazing scene unfolding within the wings, every section is a vibrant work of art just waiting to be revealed.

(2) Surprises Hidden Within - A Treasure Hunt

These are no ordinary puzzle pieces—each one is a miniature masterpiece, carved with wild, unpredictable shapes that twist and curl like ancient symbols or hidden runes. This puzzle challenges your spatial awareness and intuition at every turn. And as you fit piece after piece, the magic unfolds: a phoenix bursts into flight, a shooting star streaks across the sky, a mysterious indigo butterfly hovers in the shadows, and symbols of flame, heroism, and wonder emerge from within the dragon’s form. It’s a fantasy treasure hunt where every discovery feels like unlocking a secret—an adventure layered with intricate surprises that make the journey as rewarding as the final image.

(3) High-Quality, Laser-Cut Pieces

Crafted from high-quality, precision laser-cut wood, every piece of this puzzle feels as premium as it looks. The vibrant colors are rich and bold, the pieces fit together with satisfying smoothness, and the artwork—once complete—is utterly mesmerizing. It all comes beautifully packaged in a charming wooden box, perfect for storage or display as a keepsake.

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://www.amazon.com.au/Lets-Play-Games-Dragon-Fantasy/dp/B0D6B9P1T3

https://www.gamesworldsa.com.au/products/dragon-flight-lpg-wooden-puzzle

Find your local game stores here: https://www.localgamestores.com.au/

Read more reviews of similar puzzles from Let's Play Games: 

• Oceanic Animals Series 1 - Kangaroo, By Let's Play Games 
• Oceanic Animals Series 1 - Kookaburra, By Let's Play Games
• Fantasy Series- Mermaid, By Let's Play Games

Enjoy the video! 

Crazy Farm, By Laboludic - REVIEW

Nature / Type:             Card game 

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

Recommended age:     6 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Young kids that enjoy card games with light strategy 

“Crazy Farm” by Laboludic is chaotic cuteness in a box! From the first bark to the final moo, players are in a nonstop frenzy of animal sounds, quick reflexes, and laugh-out-loud moments. Big thanks to Divisible by Zero for sending this delightful madness my way!

Why I love ❤️ it: 

(1) Mimic Animal Sounds Fast To Win

Inside the box, you’ll find 5 double-sided Animal cards, 49 colorful number cards (each a unique combo of 1 to 7 and seven colors), 1 Turmoil card, and a rulebook. Everyone picks an Animal card and puts it on display. Shuffle and split the number cards evenly into face-down piles. On your turn, flip the top card of your pile — but stay alert! If your card matches someone else’s by number or color, it’s a race to mimic their animal sound faster than they can mimic yours. The winner hands over their discard pile, and the loser tucks it under their draw stack. Flip the Turmoil card? You get to ditch your discard pile by giving it to everyone else! The game ends when someone runs out of cards or when Turmoil shows up three times. 

(2) Sneaky Strategy & Stay Razor Sharp!

There’s sneaky strategy hidden in all that farmyard noise. First, choose your animal wisely. My kids quickly realized that “ribbit” and “hee-haw” are trickier to blurt out than a basic “moo” or “meow,” which makes them perfect for outsmarting your opponents in duels. You’ve got to stay razor-sharp and error-free — even a mistaken squeak when you’re not in a duel means tucking your whole discard pile under your draw stack.

(3) Clever Variant For 2-Players

I love that there’s a clever twist for 2 players! Each player controls two animals, each with its own discard pile. Both players flip cards at the same time and take turns placing them left, right, left, right. When a duel happens, you must mimic the cry of the specific animal tied to the matching card. The loser takes the discard pile linked to that animal only. It’s faster, trickier, and way more intense! 

(4) Adorable Artwork

The artwork is adorable — every animal looks hilariously horrified. Some number cards are sneakily similar too: think yellow polka dots vs. pale yellow checks— easy to mix up in the heat of the game. Bonus points for the sturdy box and that goofy cover art! 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://www.cowtrees.au/games/828-crazy-farm.html (Australia) 

Check out more reviews on Laboludic games: 

• Deep River, By Laboludic
• Kamakai, By Laboludic
• Lucky Jack, By Laboludic 
• Golden Creek, By Laboludic 
• Micronimo, By Laboludic 
• Spy Kid, By Laboludic 
• Kezao, By Laboludic 
• Coco Candy, By Laboludic

Enjoy the video!