Wednesday, October 16, 2024

Mars Rovers Pack, By Clixo - REVIEW


Nature / Type:             Magnetic building toy 

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️    

Recommended age:    6 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Young builders/ Space vehicle lovers! 

It’s hard not to be Clixo-obsessed; they are the top few coolest building toys I’ve ever seen! Innovative unique, inspiring - and just when you thought it can’t get any better, we now have an incredible “glow-in-the-dark” range that elevates the play experience to a whole new level! Introducing Clixo Mars Rovers Pack. Thank you Divisible by Zero for providing this. 

Why I love ❤️ it: 

(1) 30 Magnetic Pieces With New Cool Shapes 

If you haven’t heard of Clixo, it’s a revolutionary construction toy that bends, folds, connects, and forms unique shapes unlike anything seen before. The Mars Rovers Pack includes 30 pieces, featuring both standard shapes like Quad and TriDot, and exciting new ones such as “Fire” (a dynamic flame-like shape), “Flipped” (a strip with three magnetic dots), “Grill” (what a stylish component!), and “Axle” (a multi-directional connector). It also includes two types of wheels with removable tires for smooth, grippy performance. Clixo’s powerful magnets and clever color-coded magnetic dots make building intuitive and fun, allowing for easy assembly and creative play.

(2) Instructions To Build 6 Spectacular Space Vehicles 

The set includes illustrated instructions to build six spectacular sci-fi-inspired space vehicles: Rocket Wheeler, Canyon Racer, Flip Car, ATV Rover, Marsdust Dirtbike, and Meteorite Dozer. The vehicles feature sleek, futuristic design with dark blue and vibrant orange gradient, fierce blazing flames at the rear, and glowing heavy-duty wheels. Perfect for planetary exploration, Martian combat, and space races - the strong magnets ensure your creations stay intact through even the toughest play.

(3) NEW Glow-In-The-Dark Feature  

The glow-in-the-dark feature is a fantastic addition, creating a captivating effect that enhances the visual appeal of the vehicles and adds to their play value in low-light conditions. 

(4) Eco-Friendly, Recyclable Material 

Clixo pieces are crafted from durable, recyclable synthetic paper with strong embedded magnets. They are non-toxic, kid-safe, and meet ASTM and EN71 toy safety standards. The packaging is eco-friendly, made from recycled bamboo pulp (now featuring an improved, convenient elastic snap!). Clixo’s lightweight, compact design makes it easily stackable for on-the-go fun.

# gifted in exchange for review 


Where to buy this: 

https://www.childplay.com.au/products/clixo-expedition-mars-rovers-30pc-pack (Australia) 

https://curiouskidzz.com.au/product/clixo-mars-rover/ (Australia) 

https://www.cowtrees.au/construction/831-mars-rovers-pack.html (Australia) 


Check out my other Clixo reviews here: 


Enjoy the video!

Battlecrest, By Button Shy / Even Toys And Games - REVIEW


Nature / Type:             Wallet card game 

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️    

Recommended age:    10 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Older kids & adults who enjoy strategy card games/ skirmish games

Battlecrest from Button Shy  (version from Even Toys And Games) reminds me of a thrilling blend between a Pokémon battle and strategic chess match. I was initially skeptical about the idea of battling with just 18 cards, but once again, Button Shy has outdone itself!

Why I love ❤️ it: 

(1) Battle Between Heroes 

This is a skirmish game where each player uses a hero to battle around a 6x6 battlefield. Each player commands a hero with its unique set of character cards— each featuring hero, actions, health tracker, and occasional minion/ item cards. Set up the battlefield with six terrain cards (shuffled and random) arranged in a specific layout. On each turn, players unleash two actions: move the hero/ minion, activate abilities, exhaust and prime crests, or refocus cards for fresh strategies. Exhausted action card reveals crest for new advantages, keeping the action intense as you aim to deplete your opponent’s health points and claim victory!

(2) A Game With Just 18 Cards But Astonishing Depth Of Strategy!

What sets Battlecrest apart is its astonishing depth of strategy - crafted with just 18 cards! The terrain cards are brimming with bonuses, hazards, shortcuts, flip-around effect. Each double-sided action card has its defense value and movement points, plus crests that amplify your actions—from extra damage to enhancement of shield power! Engage in 3 types of attacks: close-quarters sword fights, medium-range skirmishes, and long-distance archery, Additionally, utilize “force” to shove enemy into hazards or create space between you and your foes. Activate special “star” actions to unleash unique powers from your hero or nearby terrain, and command minion to turn the tide in your favor. In Battlecrest, every decision counts! 

(3) Expansions Included: 6 Characters + 6 Command Cards 

This edition includes the base characters: Akhena, a fierce warrior with celestial wisdom, and Mutiny, a rugged raider who fights alongside a minion. Additionally, you’ll find five more characters—Whispyr, Pavl, Korvu, Forge, and Hype. The package includes the Imperator Solo Expansion rules (with 6 command cards), 4-player Team Battle Mode rules, and Fellwoods Base Game rules. I love the graphic-novel-style artwork and iconography, which add a vibrant flair to the gameplay!

# gifted in exchange for review 


Where to buy this: 

https://www.aussiehobbies.com.au/products/battlecrest?_pos=1&_sid=47a687fe1&_ss=r

https://shop.goodgames.com.au/products/battlecrest?variant=44076953010334

https://morethanmeeples.com.au/product/battlecrest-card-game/

https://www.m-g.com.au/product/battlecrest/

https://www.gamesworldbrisbane.com.au/battlecrest

https://vaultgames.com.au/products/battlecrest

https://www.terrificscientific.com.au/products/spaceshipped-copy

https://www.littlelostbookshop.com.au/products/613072996272-battlecrest

https://www.gameology.com.au/products/battlecrest

https://www.gamesworld.com.au/product/battlecrest-card-game/

https://shop.goodgames.com.au/products/battlecrest?variant=44076953010334

https://www.thegamesshop.com.au/estore/style/613072996272.aspx

https://www.megagames.com.au/products/battlecrest

https://www.gumnut.com.au/products/battlecrest-card-game?_pos=1&_sid=b2f6ccbcd&_ss=r


Check out my other reviews on Button Shy games: 


Enjoy the video! 

Thursday, October 10, 2024

Cauldron Quest, By Peaceable Kingdom - REVIEW

 
Nature / Type:             Board game 

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️    

Recommended age:    6 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Kids that love cooperative games, especially one with cool magic theme! 


Cauldron Quest from Peaceable Kingdom is a remarkable cooperative game. I mean, who doesn’t love the idea of thwarting an evil plot with spell-breaking potion, and saving a kingdom as a team? Thank you VR Distribution for the fabulous recommendation! 

Why I love ❤️ it: 

(1) Cooperative Game With Great Mix Of Skill & Chance 

I love a game with a great mix of skill and chance! In Cauldron Quest, players work together to discover hidden ingredients and move them to the cauldron at the center of the board, before all your 6 paths are obstructed. To set up, pick 3 “must-have” ingredient tokens and place them on the cauldron, and randomly arrange the 6 potion bottles at the starting spaces with the ingredient image face-down. On each turn, players roll the Action Dice to determine the next action - moving potion bottles closer to the cauldron, move evil Wizard Hat along its track (which may have the adverse effect of blocking your path or sending your potion back to the start), place path blocker on a path, or roll the Magic Dice. The Magic Dice give you special advantages which are pivotal to complete the mission. 

(2) Magic Dice - Apply Your Mathematics Skills To Gain Advantage

Our favourite’s part of the game is Magic Dice rolling (3 rolling chances each time) - this is where we make the most meaningful decisions, whilst applying our mathematics skills. Players must decide which “spell” would confer the greatest advantage at that point. If you want to reveal the hidden ingredient of a bottle, you need even numbers on 3 dice. 3 odd numbers give us the power to swap locations of 2 potion bottles, and you get to move a bottle 6 spaces with a dice combination adding up to 12. We love the interesting choices! Players also get to decide collectively when to use a spell breaker to remove one path blocker during the game. 

(3) Refreshing & Magical Artwork With COOL Theme! 

We love the COOL theme of evil Wizard and potion-brewing. The artwork is very fun with a touch of mysterious and magical feel. The board is in a unique circular shape, and the ingredient selections are the “wizard’s classics” (rotten egg, eye of newt, poison mushroom - anyone?). The components are solid, the board is foldable, and everything looks well-constructed and wonderfully done. We LOVE it! 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://www.gamesworldsa.com.au/products/cauldron-quest (Australia) 

https://www.gamesmen.com.au/cauldron-quest-board-game (Australia) 


Check out more Peaceable Kingdom games here: 


Enjoy the video: 

Solar System Busy Book, By Busy Books Co - REVIEW


Nature / Type:             Busy book/ learning binder 

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️    

Recommended age:    2-6 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Any kids who love tactile activities/ solving puzzles/ completing tasks 

Both of my kids have a cute fascination with completing tasks—they love the thrill of solving puzzles, sorting things, and discovering new facts. I’m excited to review the “Solar System Busy Book” from Busy Books Co, an Australian-designed and made activity book that offers a series of delightful learning experiences - perfect for fostering kids’ curiosity and sense of achievement while exploring the wonders of solar system! 

Why I love ❤️ it: 

(1) Learn About Solar System: Planets, Moon & Earth's Atmosphere 

I haven’t come across many interactive solar system resources, so this Busy Book is a refreshing addition to our home-learning collection. The kids love rearranging the planets and moon based on their distance from the Sun (we especially LOVE admiring Saturn’s iconic rings). The creative matching exercises have been a hit, helping us learn about celestial objects like satellites, comets, and spaceship. 🚀 We also delved into the moon’s eight phases and the five layers of Earth’s atmosphere. Seriously, who says astronomy is boring? 

(2) Beautifully Illustrated Pages With Solar-System Themed Activities

The book features many more beautifully illustrated pages with solar-system-themed learning activities. It includes letter matching (upper-case planets with lower-case rockets), visual pattern recognition, shape identification, star counting, numbered astronaut puzzle, space shuttle assembly, UFO color matching (with super adorable aliens), “find the other half” robot puzzles, and activities for learning more/less/equal and addition up to 5. This comprehensive binder offers a joyful learning experience. And the special bonding opportunities with the kids? Priceless! 

(3) Great Quality Reusable Busy Book 

The BEST feature about Busy Book - they are REUSABLE! The thick, glossy, double-laminated pages are securely bound with a durable round binder. All removable pieces are equipped with Velcro dots, allowing them to be detached and reattached countless times. Plus, the set thoughtfully includes two extra sheets of replaceable Velcro components. 

(4) Yellow travel Bag For Easy Travel 

I love the yellow travel bag with a zipper—it perfectly fits the lightweight Busy Book for easy travel. The sturdy storage box is a fantastic addition, offering excellent protection for long-lasting use. Simply amazing!

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://www.busybooks.co/products/solar-system-busy-book

Enjoy the video! 

Wooden 3D Puzzle - Motorcycle, By Funyards Australia - REVIEW




Nature / Type:             Wooden 3D puzzle  

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️     

Recommended age:    7 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Kids and adults who enjoy quick DIY / craft and building project

We love exploring the world of build-it-yourself plywood puzzles - from iconic landmarks to incredible vehicles. Today, let’s dive into the “Wooden 3D Puzzle - Motorcycle” - a sleek and dynamic road warrior that combines style with excitement! Thank you Funyards Australia for providing a copy for review! 

Why I love ❤️ this set: 

(1) 34 Laser-Cut Plywood Pieces 

The set comes with two wooden sheets with removable laser-cut plywood pieces, and a one-page assembly instructions guide. First, gently push out the laser cut wooden pieces (there are a total of 34 individuals pieces) - all can be easily popped out and removed without using any tool. The illustrated guide provides a clear step-by-step instructions on how to assemble the motorcycle. It was really fun to see how these plywood pieces came together to form a dashing bike. Simply insert and connect the pieces together in sequence - from the main frame, wheels, handlebars, footrest, saddled seat, fender, and more. The entire process took us around 30 minutes to complete - it’s a delightful project, not too difficult to execute, stress-free, yet satisfying at the same time! 

(2) Stylish & Simple DIY Project 

Like the other Funyards wooden puzzle sets - this motorcycle design includes a variety of details that make it a stylish choice for a simple, quick project. The front fork is flexible and steerable, allowing it to move from side to side, while the wheels roll smoothly. All components are securely assembled. This motorcycle model is a compact, elegant decorative item for any home.

(3) Well-Designed Kit With Precision

The puzzle pieces are laser-cut with precision, featuring well-designed and accurately-sized gaps and links that allow for effortless assembly. I’m impressed by how easily the pieces fit together without the need for glue or tools. The set also includes a small piece of sandpaper to smooth the edges and wooden surfaces

(4) Flat-Pack With Minimal Packaging 

I love that the puzzle is flat-pack with minimal packaging. The instruction is clearly illustrated, all pieces are labeled on the guide and are easily identifiable. This is a great building set for adults and kids. Additionally, the product has passed CE and ASTM tests, as indicated in the included information. 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

Funyards Australia 


Check out more similar wooden DIY puzzles from Funyards Australia: 

Enjoy the video! 

Monday, October 7, 2024

Mixed Doubles, By ok2win - REVIEW


 Nature / Type:            Card game  

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️    

Recommended age:    6 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Kids & grown-ups that enjoy card games with a mix of luck and strategy 

ok2win has just officially become my TOP few favourite card-game creators! Thank you Divisible by Zero for another marvellous game! Today, let’s talk about my latest obsession - “Mixed Doubles” - a game that mixes strategy and luck in perfect measure! 

Why I love ❤️ this game: 

(1) Risk-Taking Card Game That Incorporates Luck + Strategy + FUN! 

The set includes 84 cards and two eight-sided dice. To start, deal 3 cards face-up to each player. On their turn, a player draws additional 3 cards and add them to the “palette”. Now, it’s decision time: a player can either roll both dice once, or “wager” one or more cards (of 1 colour) to the jackpot. Like a speculative investment of fluctuating prices- wagering increases the chances to win BIG (eg 3 rolls for 3 cards wagered + opportunity to win your opponent’s cards), BUT you might also risk losing the wagered cards to the jackpot. Players win cards that match the colour (or the mix of colours) of the dice. This is a risk-taking game that incorporates dash of luck, hint of strategy, and a big chunk of thrilling FUN. Each card contains a number (point) - the player possesses cards with the most points at the end wins the game. 

(2) A Vibrant And Colourful Game

I love the vibrant and colourful elements! Each of the 8-sided dice have two sides of the 3 colours (blue, red, yellow), one wild, and one “push” symbol. If you are looking for a game that gets the kids excited to learn about mixture of colours - this is the ONE. When you roll a Blue + Red, it will activate the colour “purple”; When you roll a Red + Yellow, you win the Orange cards. If you roll a Wild + Red, you grab all the cards related to Red (Red + Purple + Orange). There are also colour references at the border of each card as guidance. 

(3) Unpredictable - Keeping You On Your Toes

I love the numerous possibilities and unpredictable change of events. A single “push” on dice means we have to “sacrifice” all cards of the rolled colour to the jackpot; double “push” allows us to swap our palette of cards with another’s. Two “Wild” on dice earned us all cards with numbers (regardless of colour). There are also “Steal”, “All In”, “Extra Roll”, “Free”, and a BAD “Minus 5” card that can instantly change the outcome of the game! 

# gifted in exchange for review 


Where to buy this: 

https://www.cowtrees.au/educational/613-mixed-doubles.html (Australia) 


Enjoy the video!

Thursday, October 3, 2024

Acorn Soup - The Tasty Counting Game, By Peaceable Kingdom - REVIEW


Nature / Type:             Counting / matching game for toddlers 

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️    

Recommended age:    2 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Parents looking for good quality counting/ matching/ cooking game for their little ones. 

“Acorn Soup - The Tasty Counting Game” from Peaceable Kingdom is a delicious game that makes my heart sings! It’s an engaging game and pretend play-set - designed for toddlers, loved by all ages (including the grown-ups!). Thank you VR Distribution - I’m loving this beautiful toy! 

Why I love ❤️ this game: 

(1) Match / Count The Ingredients & Create Your Tasty Soup! 

Included within the round “soup-pot” container are 8 recipe cards, a wooden spoon, 24 wooden ingredients, instructions, and a parent guide. The rules are simple and pretty straightforward - perfect as a “first game” for 2 year-old: simply grab a recipe card, match the ingredients, pour them into the pot, and create a delightful soup for all to share! Just like the “Happy Marshmallow Game” that I previously reviewed, there are a few other suggested ways to play with the included components: sort the ingredients according to types (eg “fruits”, or “things that are green”), create a new soup recipe, sing-it out etc.

(2) Amazing Soup Selections (Including Good Luck Soup!)

I LOVE the soup selections; from refreshing “Summer Soup” with burst of blueberries flavour, “Fall Soup” with a peppery hint of red radishes, “Garden Soup” with white puffball of dandelions, and many more scrumptious choices! My personal favourite is the “Good Luck Soup” - an interesting delicacy made of three-leaf clovers, sweet purple flowers, and a stem of herb. Each recipe is different and brightly illustrated with an adorable name. 

(3) Early Childhood Skills

There are numerous early childhood skills that can be taught with these charming components: counting (from 1 to 3 ingredients), matching (identify the right ingredients), language, fine-motor skills (put “ingredient” on spoon and drop it into the “pot”), following directions, imaginative play, creativity (create a soup and give it a lovely name!). 

(4) Great Quality Components & Storage Container Doubles As Soup Pot 

The components and quality of the game is stunning! I love the storage container that doubles as a soup pot, the vibrant wooden ingredients with pictures on both sides, a realistic-looking and sturdy wooden spoon for mixing and stirring (in perfect size for little hands). The handy parent guide about kid development stage with useful play ideas is a great addition to the set. 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://www.gameology.com.au/products/acorn-soup (Australia) 

https://www.gamesworldsa.com.au/products/acorn-soup (Australia) 


Enjoy the video! 

Thursday, September 26, 2024

Little People, Big Dreams - Amazing Women: A Memory Game, By Kaddo - REVIEW


Nature / Type:             Memory games

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️    

Recommended age:    4 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Fans of "Little People, Big Dreams' series / and those who enjoy memory games 

Hand up 🙋‍♀️ if you’re a BIG FAN of the bestselling “Little People, Big Dreams” series. We love reading these uplifting, inspirational stories of incredible people discovering their dreams. If you enjoy these fantastic stories, then you must check out this “Little People, Big Dreams - Amazing Women: A Memory Game” from Kaddo game (an imprint of Quarto Group ). 

Why I love ❤️ this game: 

(1) Memory Game Featuring 20 Amazing Women

The set includes 40 cards - featuring 20 amazing women from a wide range of industries and fields. The rule is similar to the classic memory game; Arrange the cards face down, flip two card over - if you find a pair, keep the cards. If you don’t, turn them face down again. This is a really cute game to learn about inspiring female role models throughout history. We get to pair up cards featuring Ada Lovelace - the world’s first computer programmer, Nobel Peace Prize legend like Malala Yousafzai, and many more iconic women in the world. 

(2) Non-Identical Images - A Fun Challenge For The Kids!

One unique feature of the cards: the images of the pair are not identical. Instead, each character is made up of two different portraits - a younger self (the “little people”) and the adult form of the same person. The names of the persons (printed in cursive font - which unfortunately, made it a little challenging to read for younger kids) and the job titles are shown on the cards. Younger kids might find this memory game “not as straightforward” compared to the “classic”, although they can cross-check the pairs by matching the background colour of two cards.

(3) Compact Booklet With Interesting Summary

I love the compact booklet that gives us a quick summary of the 20 wonderful women featured in this game. I’m loving the diverse and interesting selections included - from activist Gloria Steinem, tennis player Billie Jean King, Frankenstein’s author Mary Shelley, outstanding scientist Rosalind Franklin, and our beloved “Lady of the Lamp” Florence Nightingale. I’m loving the empowering stories and the simple yet impactful messages! 

(4) Sturdy Game Box & Great Quality Cards 

I also love the sturdy game box, and the great quality cards with solid thickness. The artwork is charming and delightful, making this an appealing game for kids and adults. 

# gifted in exchange for review 


Where to buy this: 

QBD Books (Australia) 

Harry Hartog (Australia) 


Enjoy the video!

Monday, September 9, 2024

Sky Tower, By Funyards Australia - REVIEW



Nature / Type:             Wooden puzzle 

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️    

Recommended age:    8 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Collectors of wooden puzzles & brainteasers 

There is some mystical charm about wooden puzzles - the lovingly crafted handmade quality, the beautiful natural timber material, and the wisdom behind each logical challenge presented. Today, let’s take a look at this captivating 3D puzzle - “Sky Tower” from Funyards Australia (thank you for providing). 

Why I love ❤️ it: 

(1) Packing Puzzle That Rises Upwards 

This is a packing puzzle that rises vertically upwards. It is said to be designed by W. L. Van der Poel, a Dutch computer scientist (be prepared to be amazed by the precision and ingenuity of the design!). It reminds me of a Japanese wooden pagoda with a touch of modernity, with classic multi-storey architectural charm completed with a curved roof at the top that accentuates the symmetrical balance of the completed structure. Once you remove the separable pieces bit by bit, you will discover 10 individual parts (plus a rooftop piece/ lid) of multiple unique geometric shapes, each piece composed of 1 to 6 number of cubes. The challenge is to re-arrange the puzzle pieces so that the 50 cubes would fit nicely in a columns of 5 in 10 levels, held securely within a wooden base with 4 vertical poles. It’s like a game of Tetris, but in 3D form. Sharp observation and immaculate pre-planning skills play a big part - but in case you are stuck, there is an illustrated solution provided to unlock the secrets. 

(2) Gorgeous Sky Tower Structure

This Sky Tower puzzle is stunningly tall (around 25.5 cm) and attention-grabbing. I am enchanted by the beautiful shades of the natural wooden pieces - a mix of dark timber, a few with hint of maroon touch, and some of a slightly lighter range. I love the gorgeous structure. This is more than just a challenging brainteaser - it also makes an exciting display piece at home. 

(3) Handcrafted by Local Artisans in Thailand

Like many other Funyards Australia wooden products - this brainteaser set is lovingly-handmade by local artisans in Thailand. It is built for long-lasting play, durable and solid, and precisely crafted. Go ahead and check out more about Funyards Australia - a family-owned business focuses on selling award-winning quality products, with a strong emphasis on STEM and wooden educational products.


# gifted in exchange for review 


Where to buy this: 

Funyards Australia


Enjoy the video!

Got It Learning (Set 3), By Got It Learning - REVIEW


Nature / Type:             Learning cards 

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️    

Recommended age:    5 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Parents / teachers looking for effective reading/ words-learning resources 

I love discovering simple and effective reading resources. We are so grateful to receive a pack of Got It Learning (Set 3) cards for review recently. Designed by an experienced specialist teacher, this is an amazing set of cards that takes phonics learning and words-decoding to a whole new exciting level! 

Why I love ❤️ it: 

(1) 40 Word Cards Covering 5 Different Sounds 

Included in this set are 5 instruction cards, 5 picture prompt cards, 8 “Got it!” cards, and 40 word cards. Got It Learning has 5 packs of cards in different levels - each pack includes 40 word cards covering 5 different sounds. Set 1 covers basic CVC/ one syllable words, Set 2 focuses on th/ck/sh/ch/ng. Set 3 focuses on the slightly more challenging ai/ee/igh/oa/oo sounds, Set 4 and 5 focus on oo/ar/or/ur/ow and oi/ear/air/ure/er respectively. There is an online Assessment Sheet on the website with guided words for each level that helps parents to find the correct starting pack for the kids. I love the easy-to-read font, and the plain white / uncluttered background of the cards. The focus sound of the word (eg “oo” for the word “too”) is printed in blue at 4 corners of the card and within the word - which is a fantastic way to draw the kids’ attention to the focus sound. 

(2) 5 Smartly-Designed Picture Prompt Cards 

The 5 picture prompt cards are excellently designed and really help the kids to match and enunciate the words. Similar to the word cards, the focus sound is printed in blue at 4 corners of the card and within the word. Each of the words for the 5 focus sounds (bee, moon, rain, light, boat) is accompanied by an illustration. When the kids pick up a new word (eg “pain”), they can refer to the relevant prompt card (“rain”) to get a clue of the sound. 

(3) Play & Learn Through Games 

Of course, these are not just your ordinary “flash cards” - “Got It Learning” encourages kids to play and learn through fun and interactive way! The set includes 5 suggested ways to play: Word Race (discard cards by reading the words correctly), Word Sets (collect 3 word sets), and 3 sound-matching games in slightly different rules (Word Pairs, Word Match, Word Switch). Each game can be played as a reading version or reading + spelling version. 

# gifted in exchange for review 


Where to buy this: 

https://gotitlearning.co.uk/shop/ (Website) 


Enjoy the video! 

Friday, September 6, 2024

Little People, Big Dreams: Who Am I, By Kaddo - REVIEW

Nature / Type:             Board game 

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️    

Recommended age:    6 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Anyone who enjoys "Guess Who" games / "Little People, Big Dreams" book series 

We love “Little People, Big Dreams” - they are a series of uplifting, inspirational stories of incredible people that we look up to. Guess what? We now have a game version of it! We were thrilled to receive “Little People, Big Dreams: Who Am I” - Kaddo game from Quarto Group , and I can’t wait to tell you more! 

Why I love ❤️ this game: 

(1) "Guess Who" Game - Ask Meaningful Questions That Truly Matter! 

This is a classic “Guess Who?” game featuring people with great accomplishments. The usual rules apply: One player chooses a character card. The other player ask a list of yes / no questions to eliminate guesses. One MAJOR difference: instead of asking question about physical descriptors of the characters (eg “does that person wear glasses”), we ask meaningful questions that truly matter - “Did you try to change unfair laws”, “did you challenge the ideas about race”, “Did you help improve people’s health?”. I love the great set of question prompts provided in the booklet and printed on the shields / dividers. My personal favourite question prompt is “were you arrested or imprisoned?”. The kids were confused - “Are they baddies? Why were they arrested? - and thus, triggering such interesting discussion about corrupted system and unfair laws! 

(2) Handy Question Prompts With Symbols For Quick Reference

Each of the question prompts (printed on the booklet and dividers) is represented by a symbol at the side. For example, the question “Did you invent or discover something” is represented by a lightbulb, and “Did you write a book” is represented by a book icon. The related symbols appear at the bottom of each characters on the game boards (for example, under the picture of Florence Nightingale, you will find 5 symbols (book, globe, cross, lightbulb, graduation cap). Once we get the yes/ no answer, player can quickly match up the symbols, and determine the character cards to cover using the counter cards. 

(3) Booklet With Interesting Biography Summary Of 24 Characters

I love the booklet that give us quick summary of each of the 24 characters’ biography. I also really LOVE the wide representation of characters from various industries - from record breaking tennis player Billie Jean King, anti-slavery activist Harriet Tubman, pioneering microbiologist Louis Pasteur, and many more! 

# gifted in exchange for review 


Where to buy this: 

QBD Books (Australia)

Booktopia (Australia) 


Check out more reviews of games from Kaddo: 


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Golden Creek, By Laboludic - REVIEW

Nature / Type:             Board game

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️    

Recommended age:    7 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Board-gamers who enjoy games with pirate-themed/ secret "bidding" mechanism 

Golden Creek is likely the most complex Laboludic game I’ve tested so far. It’s a game that demands crafty planning, quick intuition, and a knack for mind-reading (or guessing) your opponents’ moves. I’m impressed! Thank you, Divisible by Zero —we’re loving it!

Why I love ❤️ this game: 

(1) Plunder The Most Treasure To Win In This Secret "Bidding" Game 

This is a secret “bidding” game where players must keenly observe and anticipate each other’s moves. Each player takes on the role of a pirate and is given 6 Ship cards. During each round, a random treasure token—worth 1, 2, 3, or 8 points for a pair of half jewels—is placed on each of the 3 islands, alternating between face-up and face-down positions. Players secretly choose a card and reveal it simultaneously to decide whether to “plunder” or “attack” an island. If two or more players choose the same card, the effects cancel out, and none of those players receive any treasure. An “Attack” card trumps a “Plunder” card, but an “Attack” without a corresponding “Plunder” results in no treasure for the “Attack” player. The game continues until the treasure tokens are depleted. Player with the highest total wealth at the end is the winner.

(2) Exciting Twists - A Light-Hearted "Mind Game"

I love a twist to the traditional “bidding” mechanism! For instance, when two cards are “cancelled-out”, the players get a “compensation” - they get to advance their markers on the Character card, gaining special abilities for the next round. These abilities might include peeking at a face-down token, drawing an extra treasure token from the pile, or playing two Ship cards in one turn. Alternatively, players can choose not to use the power and instead earn bonus points at the end. The mixed face-up and face-down token placements introduce a constant element of surprise. This game presents a light-hearted “mind game” where players must decide whether to compete for the highest rewards or opt for seemingly less attractive options, all while considering their opponents’ potential strategies.

(3) Gender-Neutral / Cool Pirate Theme

I love the cool pirate theme. The gender-neutral artwork is super badass and eye-catching. This game really stands out and adds a unique and inclusive touch to the overall design. 


# gifted in exchange for review 


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Stone Soup, By Peaceable Kingdom - REVIEW


Nature / Type:             Board Game 

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️    

Recommended age:    5 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Kids who love memory/ matching / cooperative games 



Remember the heartwarming story that teaches us the value of sharing - how a little scrap and garnish can make a huge difference and create a pot of nourishing soup for all to share? We’re so glad that we now have a board game inspired by this beautiful story - check out Stone Soup from Peaceable Kingdom (thank you VR Distribution for providing a copy!). 

Why I love ❤️ this game: 

(1) Match Ingredients To Cook-Up Pot Of Delicious Soup 

In this game, players work as a team to cook up a pot of delicious soup with matching ingredients. To set up, place all ingredient/ magic stone/ fire-out cards face-down on the game board. Like a usual matching game, each player flips 2 cards over. When 2 ingredient cards match, place them into the “pot”. If they don’t match, flip them both over. However, there’s a twist: if a fire-out card is flipped, it will be placed on the fire area of the board. If all 10 fire-out cards are placed on fire spaces, then the game is over (BUT - there is a special “magic stone” card we can use once to flip a fire-out card face down). If the players can match up all 12 ingredients before the fire goes out, we win together! 

(2) Cooperative Game For 2-6 Players 

I LOVE the cooperative nature of this game (which goes into the very heart of the Stone Soup story!). The kids discussed, spoke-up, yelled-out, pointed frantically, and worked collaboratively as a TEAM throughout the play. The game can be played by 2 to 6 players. This is a great game to develop memory and social skills! 

(3) A Game With A Meaningful Theme 

Each ingredient card has clear, easily distinguishable illustrations on it, together with the printed name of the ingredient. I love the great variety of ingredients included (Tomato, Carrot, Onion, Potato, Peas, Pasta, Celery, Mushrooms, Beans, Broccoli, Cabbage, Salt & Pepper). There is also a double-sided sheet with “A Tale Of Stone Soup” - the classic folk story that brought so much joy to people around the globe for generations. This is an excellent game to improve reading skill for our little people! 

(4) Environmental-Friendly Game Components 

 The game components are made with ecologically responsible FSC-certified paper and printed with soy-based ink. The rules are printed on the inside cover of the box lid. 

Love it! 


# gifted in exchange for review 


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