Cat Spotting, By ToToTam - REVIEW

Nature / Type:             Speed spotting game 

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

Recommended age:     10 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Cat lovers / anyone who enjoys Where's Wally books. 

Do you have a sharp memory and an eye for tiny (kitten) details? Love a challenge that’s fast, fun, and a little chaotic? 🐾 Then Cat Spotting by ToToTam might just steal your heart. It’s quick to learn, wildly addictive, and packed with playful feline energy that pulls everyone in from the very first round.

Why I love ❤️ it: 

(1) Fast-Paced & Competitive - Spot The Cat!

Think Where’s Wally, but make it cats. A LOT of cats. Setup and learning take literally one minute. It’s fast-paced, competitive, and instantly addictive. You’re given 3 crowd cards and a cat card - your mission? Spot that exact cat hidden among the chaos as fast as possible. Simple? Yes. Easy? Absolutely not 😼 The game is built around 4 sets of crowd cards (A–D), each with 3 cards, and over 100 hand-drawn cats. Even though the cats look similar, the one you’re searching for appears on only ONE of the three cards—so trust your eyes, your memory, and your reflexes!

(2) Over 100 Cats - Each With Name & Personality

Cats are EVERYTHING. Over 100 illustrated cats, each with its own name and personality - and none are repeated. Black-and-white cards are a genius choice: classy, clean, and sneakily challenging. We’ve got Shank (band-aid on head), Donut (yes, wearing a donut float), Meep Meep (fish in mouth), cats with bows, recovery cones, and even one with a noodle bowl toppled on its head. Some are based on real cats, and somehow they all blend in while still being totally distinct. Every cat matters. Every cat distracts you. I love it.

(3) Great Replay-ability 

This game is a replay-ability galore! With 4 crowd sets, 3 cards each that can be arranged in different layouts and sequence, and 100+ cats, no two games feel the same. Every round feels fresh, frantic, and hilarious.

(4) Basic To Advanced Modes - Many Ways To Play!

There are so many ways to play! From the Basic Cat Spotting race, to advanced modes, 3-player “Cats in the Hand”, timed “Cats on the Table”, cooperative “Cats Together”, memory-testing “Memory Cats”, and more - there’s a mode for every mood.

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://www.goodgames.com.au/products/cat-spotting

https://www.gamesmen.com.au/cat-spotting-board-game

Enjoy the video! 

Prime Climb, By Math for Love - REVIEW

Nature / Type:             Maths game

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

Recommended age:     10 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Kids and adults that enjoy numbers and maths

Prime Climb from Math for Love - when your kid asks to play a maths game again and actually loves every up and down! Thank you Divisible by Zero for providing a copy. 

Why I love ❤️ it: 

(1) Guides 2 Pawns Along Colourful Number Spiral

Prime Climb feels a bit like Snakes & Ladders… but smarter, sharper, and far more exciting. Each player guides two pawns along a colourful number spiral, aiming to land exactly on 101. On each turn, you roll two special dice and use them one at a time - choosing to add, subtract, multiply, or divide based on your pawn’s position. For example: I roll a 4 and a 5. One pawn moves from 0 to 4. My other pawn is on 20 - multiply by 5 and suddenly I’m at 100. So near, yet still not there. And that’s the tension: every turn can flip your fortunes. You might sit stuck on 100 unless you cleverly subtract or divide your way forward! Land on a prime number (those red circles), and you earn a bonus card. Land on another player? You bump them straight back to the start.

(2) Prime Cards Earned When Land On Red Circles

Landing on red circles earns Prime Cards. Some help immediately, some you save, and some create total chaos. You might roll again, send another pawn back to the start, reverse your number (73 → 37), or even steal a card from someone else. These twists keep every game unpredictable and highly entertaining.

(3) Maths + Strategy + Merciless Fun!

This game can be merciless - and that’s part of the fun. Getting bumped back to the start stings, but recovery is quick if you play smart (multiplication is your best friend early on!). There’s constant decision-making: Can you go for the biggest move without overshooting 101? Do you play aggressively and bump others, or push toward the finish? Also - once you’re past 50, multiplication won’t help you move forward -  so subtraction and division suddenly become key. And rolling doubles? That gives you four moves instead of two — incredibly powerful if used well.

(4) Smart Game Board Design

The board design is genius. Each prime number under 10 has its own colour: 2 (orange), 3 (green), 5 (blue), 7 (purple). Composite numbers blend colours based on their factors — for example, 35 (5×7) is half blue, half purple. It’s not just pretty - it helps players instantly recognise factors, making multiplication and division more intuitive.

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://www.cowtrees.au/educational-toys/539-prime-climb.html

Check out more reviews on Math for Love games: 

• Tiny Polka Dot, By Math For Love
• Multiplication By Heart, By Math For Love
• Rolly Poly, By Math For Love

Enjoy the video! 

Landmarks, By Floodgate Games - REVIEW

Nature / Type:             Board game

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

Recommended age:     10 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Kids/ Adults that enjoy wordplay / word-games 

Wordplay goes wild in Landmarks, a clever and captivating game from Floodgate Games that turns language into survival tool. Big thanks to Let's Play Games for sending us a copy to explore!

Why I love ❤️ it: 

(1) Game With Strategic One-Word Clues

In Landmarks, one player becomes the Guide, secretly studying a map filled with treasures, traps, curses, and exit. Using a trio of starting words—like Sandwich, Friend, and Eye—the Guide writes strategic one-word clues to lead the team across the terrain. Want to target just Eye? Try Glasses. Aiming for both Eye and Sandwich? Roll might do the trick (eye-roll, sandwich roll—get it?). The Explorers then debate, discuss, and place a tile where they think the clue leads. Each choice reveals what the team stumbled into, with the ultimate goal being to snag treasure and escape the island alive. 

(2) Water Wells, Traps, & Curses

Landmarks is full of twists and turns. Run out of tiles, and it’s game over! Thankfully, water wells can restock your supply. Traps shrink your tile count permanently, while curses add tricky conditions—like needing to find an amulet before you can escape. But pick up a second curse in the same round, and you’re doomed. Add to that the chaotic minds of your teammates, who will absolutely interpret your clue in the weirdest way, and you’ve got a game full of surprising detours and laugh-out-loud moments.

(3) Competitive Team-vs.-Team Mode

Landmarks also packs a punch with a competitive team-vs.-team mode. In this variant—no traps, no water wells, no tile limits. Instead, two teams face off using the same map, racing to collect four treasures first. Each team has their own coloured loot to chase (plus a couple of shared treasures up for grabs), and clue-givers take turns crafting hints to steer their squad to victory—while dodging curses and accidentally helping the other side. 

(4) Solid & Well-Designed Components

The game unfolds on a beautifully illustrated cloth map, with a more minimal version on the flip side. The dry-erase landmark tiles are satisfyingly reusable, the tracker board and card stander feel solid, and the box insert keeps everything neatly in place. With 150 map cards and 37 chunky tiles, Landmarks looks and feels as smart as it plays. 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

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

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! 

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! 

Boop, By Smirk and Dagger - REVIEW

Nature / Type:             Board game 

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

Recommended age:     10 year-old ++ (but my 6 year-old is loving this too!)

Who would love this:  Anyone who loves strategy games, especially one that is especially cute!  

Who says a game can’t be both irresistibly cute and brain-ticklingly strategic? Boop from Smirk and Dagger, kindly provided by Let's Play Games, is the perfect blend of charm and challenge.

Why I love ❤️ this game: 

(1) Get Three Kittens/ Cats In A Row

I love how Boop combines fun, simple mechanics with just enough depth to keep you thinking. Even my 6-year-old picked it up right away—soon they were booping pieces all over the board, lining up kittens, and upgrading them into cats like a pro. The goal? Get three of your cats in a row—horizontally, vertically, or diagonally. But you start with kittens. Place one on the board, and if it’s next to any other pieces, they get “booped” one space away. Line up three kittens, and they’re removed and replaced with cats from your supply. Kittens can’t boop cats, but cats can boop anyone. First to land three full-grown cats in a row wins!

(2) Strategic 2-Player Battle Of Wits 

Think Boop sounds fluffily simple? Think again. Beneath its cuddly surface is a surprisingly strategic 2-player battle of wits. From figuring out how to graduate your kittens into cats (because only cats can win the game), to how to strategically place your cat on the board (knowing that your opponent’s kittens can’t boop them—placing them well can lock down key spots or set up a winning row your opponent can’t disrupt). Timing your upgrades and knowing when to clear kittens (even your own!) is part of the puzzle. Placing two (or more) kittens/ cats close together can protect them from getting booped away—making it the perfect setup to drop that third piece for a win.

(3) Full Of Personality & Super Cute

The pieces are full of personality, with four different token designs, each sporting a unique little face. The grey cats with white bellies and the orange tabbies with black stripes are pure classics—like little Totoro-style companions in feline form. The kittens lie sprawled out with their bums in the air and tails sticking up—just super cute! 

(4) Quilted Board

I love the quilted “bedspread” board—it’s soft, padded, and sits perfectly atop the box bottom, giving the whole setup a cozy, elevated look. In terms of cuteness and charm, Boop is a 10/10 for me.

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://www.m-g.com.au/product/boop/ (Australia) 

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

Enjoy the video! 

Monkey Palace, By Lego & Asmodee - REVIEW

Nature / Type:             Board game

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

Recommended age:     10 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Lego lovers & anyone who enjoys strategy games with stunning set-up! 

Lego and Asmodee have teamed up to bring something groundbreaking to the table – Monkey Palace! This is a brilliant fusion of strategy, fun, and the iconic creativity of LEGO pieces. Seriously, how cool is this! Big thanks to VR Distribution for sending over a copy. 

Why I love ❤️ it: 

(1) Collaborate To Build - With REAL LEGO Bricks!

Monkey Palace is a one-of-a-kind placement game where players collaborate to build, but with a competitive edge! The goal is to rack up the most banana points by constructing a staircase that earns Monkey Credits through monkey, trophy, and bonus cards. On your turn, you’ll build an ascending staircase using blocks, columns, and arches, topping it off with a decoration like bamboo leaves or a golden block. The more height you build (earn bonus points for columns with 5 or more blocks) and the more arches you use, the more credits you earn (which you can then spend on cards for additional building blocks -  both one-time and recurring). The set includes 80 arches, 80 1×1 bricks, 16 1×3 columns, 32 bamboo leaves in 2 colors, 16 1×1 round bricks, a monkey, butterfly, frog, 4 corner bricks, a baseplate, 84 cards, 4 player boards, and 2 double-sided ground maps. The player with the most banana points at the end of the game wins!

(2) Strategy, Strategy, Strategy

I’m in love with the strategic depth! There’s so much to consider: which cards to buy for the best mix of arches and blocks, whilst ensuring you earn enough banana points to win. Don’t forget the trophy cards for extra points and the mischievous critters that can disrupt your opponents—like the monkey that sits on top of a golden decoration block, the butterfly that hovers at the highest decoration block, and the frog that gives you a free column piece in exchange for -3 points.

(3) Replayability & Variety

I love the game’s replayability and variety. With four different game maps featuring unique layouts and ground types, each structure looks different every time. The shuffled cards each round provide new building pieces, keeping the gameplay dynamic and fresh. 

(4) Fun & Playful Style With Hint Of Humour

The game’s aesthetic is charming and playful, with LEGO’s signature humor and style shining through. The monkeys add a fun, goofy touch.

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://www.gamesworld.com.au/product/lego-monkey-palace/

https://www.ebgames.com.au/product/toys-and-collectibles/308122-lego-monkey-palace-board-game

https://www.zingpopculture.com.au/product/card-board-games/308122-lego-monkey-palace-board-game

Enjoy the video! 

Deep River, By Laboludic - REVIEW

Nature / Type:             Board game 

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

Recommended age:     10 year-old ++ 

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

French publisher Laboludic continues to impress with its knack for crafting unique themes, stunning artwork, and endless fun. Today, let’s talk about Deep River—a special thanks to Divisible by Zero for generously providing a copy!

why I love ❤️ this game: 

(1) "Tug-Of-War" Strategy Game With A Bear

Deep River is a strategy game brimming with delightful depth. My kid calls it the ‘tug-of-war game with a bear.’ Guide your salmon or eel across the river while luring the Hungry Bear into your opponent’s territory to win! Start by randomly placing the river tiles, then take turns moving your fish by strategically choosing action tokens and applying river tile effects—all while the bear is tugged in two directions. Each time your fish reaches the opposite shore, the bear inches closer to your rival’s nest. The game ends when the bear reaches a nest or when two action tiles land in the salmon’s camp. A fast-paced, tactical 2-player experience, Deep River keeps you on the edge of your seat! 

(2) Fresh New Round Each Time With Reshuffled Tiles & Tokens

I love how each round feels fresh, thanks to the reshuffling of tiles and tokens! The random placement of river tiles changes the board and strategy, while action tiles - flipped each time they’re activated - add more layers to the game. River tiles have unique effects—some require two fish to activate, others let you flip a chosen action tile, move the bear, or give your fish extra movement. There’s also a special rule where you can ‘occupy’ your opponent’s fish token, taking control of it—just watch out for tiles that can reverse the position! Though the rules seem simple, the combinations quickly become mind-boggling. 

(3) Unique Artwork & Original Theme

Deep River features unique artwork that instantly grabs your attention. The salmon and eel theme is refreshingly original, and it fits perfectly with the tug-of-war mechanic. The concept of salmon and eels struggling to survive is thoughtfully executed and adds a compelling layer to the game.

(4) Wooden Bear & Quality Components

I love the beautifully crafted wooden bear figurine, which perfectly symbolizes the looming danger. Deep River comes in a compact box but packs high-quality components—the tokens and tiles are thick, durable, and built to last.

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://www.cowtrees.au/games/841-deep-river.html

Check out more reviews on Laboludic games: 

• 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! 

JiuFen Old Street Book Nook, By Anavrin - REVIEW

Use Code “60STR” for 10% off. 

Nature / Type:             DIY craft kit 

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️    

Recommended age:    10 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  DIY craft builders / collectors of whimsical & artistic book nooks & art deco 

JiuFen is one of my favourite places on earth that left a lasting impression on me. I’m grateful for the chance to  review this JiuFen Old Street Book Nook by Anavrin . 

Why I love ❤️ it 

(1) Realistic & Exquisite Details Of JiuFen Old Street

The set includes plywood sheets with 593 precisely-cut pieces and an instruction booklet in English. I had an amazing time building this masterpiece with my 8-year-old. We thoroughly enjoyed the DIY project, from gluing and connecting the pieces to adding the finishing touches. We couldn’t stop admiring the realistic and exquisite details, including the winding alleyways, sloped staircases, oriental roof tiles, quaint red lanterns, and antique teahouses with Japanese-influenced architecture. The full-bloom cherry blossoms were a beautiful touch. The meticulous craftsmanship is unlike anything I’ve ever seen, and the overall layout perfectly captures the essence of this enchanting town in Taiwan. 

(2) Beautiful LED Lights With Warm & Cozy Feel

The LED lights are seamlessly integrated into the night scene of the captivating alleyway. I love the warm, cozy miniature bulbs carefully hidden within the red lanterns and the strips of LED lights that emit from beneath the roof tiles of the old-style buildings along the ridge. The lights are pre-connected to a cleverly concealed battery holder underneath the structure, complete with a switch for easy operation. The set also includes a transparent glass piece to fit at the top of the book nook and a blue reflective mirror at the back, enhancing the depth of the scenery.

(3) Well-Constructed & Detailed Booklet + Extra Pieces

The booklet is detailed and well-constructed, featuring clearly marked numbers for the parts. Although there were minor discrepancies where some reference numbers didn’t match the actual pieces, we were able to locate all the correct parts without much difficulty. I also appreciate the thoughtfully included extra pieces for the smaller components, which came in handy on a few occasions when we accidentally broke some parts.

(4) Anavrin's Cat Figure For Extra Layer Of Storytelling!

We love the Anavrin’s cat figure, Chubbs, which can be freely positioned within the book nook. It adds a cheeky personal touch and brings an extra layer of storytelling to the scene.

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://byanavrin.com/en-au/products/jiufen-old-street-book-nook-anavrin (use Code “60STR” for 10% off) 

Enjoy the videos! 

and another one here: 

https://youtube.com/shorts/-oKb1fD4nCQ?si=TEIAYgcZ8LKrU9p-

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: 

• Rove, By Button Shy/ Even Toys And Games 
• Food Chain Island, By Button Shy / Even Toys And Games 
• Circle The Wagons, By Button Shy/ Even Toys And Games
• Skulls of Sedlec, By Button Shy/ Even Toys And Games 
• Sprawlopolis, By Button Shy/ Even Toys And Games

Enjoy the video! 

WordXchange, By Prodijeux - REVIEW

Nature/ Type:            Board game 

Rating:                       ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️  

  

Recommended age:   10 year-old ++ 

Who would love this: Board-gamers who enjoy Scrabble / word games. 

Are you a quick-witted word game enthusiast looking for next-level challenge to unleash your inner competitiveness? Then - “WordXchange” by Prodijeux is THE GAME for YOU (thank you Divisible by Zero for another incredible game!) 

Why I love ❤️ this game: 

(1) Intense Word Game - Stealing Is Allowed! 

At a quick glance, you might think this is just another “scrabble-variant”; Whilst there are some similarities (such as the letter tiles in drawstring bag set-up), I find WordXchange a tougher game - more “cut-throat”, more intense, more unpredictable. The set contains 126 letter tiles (125 letters and 1 joker). The game starts with 5 randomly drawn letter tiles on central board. On each turn, player adds a new tile to the pool, and tries to make words using the tiles before the one-minute timer is up. The catch: stealing is a legitimate move in this new twist of anagram game! For example, if your opponent made a word “OAT, you can steal the word, add a letter “C, reshuffles the tiles and turns it into another word (eg “COAT” or “TACO”). All words must have at least 3-letters long, and we can’t steal a noun simply by adding a “S” and turns it into a plural form. The winner is the first to make and line up 6 words.

(2) Cool & Gorgeous Components! 

I love the mousepad size central board that doesn’t take up much table space. Formed words are displayed on white easels (14 included), facing the central board. It’s like a battle between gladiators, standing guard around an arena, waiting to crush your rivals whilst fighting for the last word! I love the transparent blue tiles. I also like that the letter distribution is printed on the central board for easy reference. 

(3) Joker Tile For Strategy

The joker tile elevates the strategy element of the game! Like Scrabble, it can represent any letter. However, in WordXchange, you can use it to “steal” a word by changing the value of the joker + adding a tile + re-arranging your opponent’s word. We can also replace the joker tile with a letter from the board, and use that joker tile to make a new word. 

(4) Elegant Velvety Black Drawstring Bag 

The drawstring bag is elegantly-done in velvety black. A timer is included, and the 12-page game rules include game strategies to truly master the game! 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://www.wombatstoyshop.com.au/word-x-change.html (Australia) 

https://www.madaboutscience.com.au/shop/word-xchange-junior.html (Australia) 

Enjoy the video! 

12 Puzzles In A Gift Box, By Funyards Australia - REVIEW

Nature/ Type:            Wooden puzzles 

Rating:                       ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

Recommended age:   10 year-old ++ 

Who would love this: Collectors of timeless, wooden puzzles 

I am fascinated by the beauty of wooden brainteasers and Kumiki puzzles. They are timeless, ingenious, never go out-of-style! If you don’t know where to start your collection, have a look at the beautifully curated products at Funyards Australia - and don’t forget to check out its “12 Puzzles In A Gift Box” set! 

Why I love ❤️ this set: 

(1) 12 Wooden Puzzles In One Gift Box 

Well, what can I say? Imagine unlocking secrets of 12 mechanical puzzles, each unique and distinctive in its own right, all attractively wrapped-up in a handcrafted box completes with an enchanting white floral ribbon at the top. It’s hard not to get excited about these mesmerising puzzles; 7-piece 3x3 Soma cube in a container with lid (don’t forget to explore the 240 possible solutions available), the challenging Snake Puzzle (the included solution guide came to my rescue for this one!), Falling Star Burr Puzzle (my personal favourite), Round Saucers Puzzle (that looks a little like a mini wine barrel), Star Puzzle (really fun to build!), Lumber Jack, 2 different “Diamond Puzzles”, Squares Cube, Notched Stick, Soccer Puzzle, and the almost impossible “12 Puzzle”.

(2) Varying Difficulty Levels For All Ages 

I love that the puzzles are of varying difficulty levels. The 6-piece Star Puzzle is straightforward and I love how the pieces joined together in such believable clever way! The Soma Puzzle is pretty kids-friendly and the 7 polycubes can be stacked randomly to build various miniature structures. Don’t be deceived by the innocent-looking Lumber Jack and Diamond, and I have yet to figure out the steps to put this “12 Puzzle” (with an encased ball) back into its original structure. This is an awesome gift for anyone who enjoys stimulating brain activities and solving addictive logical challenges. There is an illustrated solutions included for all 12 puzzles. 

(3) Beautiful Craftmanship & Natural Wooden Material 

The craftsmanship of the puzzles is fantastic, and I especially love the natural wooden material of the products. The precision of the puzzle pieces is impressive, each smoothly-finished to high quality. (4) The gift box itself is an elegant work of art. It has two levels within, with individual compartment for each of the 12 puzzles. 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

Funyards Australia 

Check out more reviews of similar wooden puzzle sets from Funyards Australia: 

• 51-Piece Pagoda Burr Puzzle, By Funyards Australia 
• Ship- 3D Interlocking Wooden Puzzle, By Funyards Australia 
• Wooden Stacking Puzzle - Tower of Pisa, By Funyards Australia 
• Airplane - 3D Interlocking Wooden Puzzle, By Funyards Australia  
• Helicopter- 3D Interlocking Wooden Puzzle, By Funyards Australia 

Enjoy the video! 

Diamond Quest, by SmartGames - REVIEW

Nature/ Type:          Clever logic game from SmartGames 

Rating:                     ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Recommended age:  10 year-old ++ 

Who would love this: Brainteasers / logic games lovers + SmartGames collectors 

I haven’t yet seen a SmartGames that I don’t like; I am really impressed with the level of care, love and creativity involved in the creation of these splendid logical puzzles. Diamond Quest is another of my personal favourites that I love tremendously! Thanks Leisure Learning for providing this set for review! 

Why I love ❤️ this game: 

(1) Brainteaser With 13 Gems - Diamond Quest is a logical deduction puzzle with similar concept like Smart Cookies by FoxMind (reviewed on 7/4/2021) and Chocolate Fix by ThinkFun. But I think Diamond Quest elevates this game to a whole new exciting level; instead of playing on a tray of 3x3 grid, Diamond Quest comes with a game board in t-shaped formed around a classic 3x3 square. Instead of playing with 9 game components, Diamond Quest has 13 jewel pieces - 3 each of green, yellow, orange and blue (each with a different gemstone cuts - round, square and triangle), and a special red diamond with a pointed culet. The goal is to arrange the gems using the clues given in each of the 80 challenges in the spiral-bound booklet, and to identify the location of the red diamond through a series of deduction, elimination, and logical thinking. It is thought-provoking for adults, appealing to kids! 

(2) Dazzlingly Beautiful - The chunky and dazzling gemstones design is such a clever idea! The kids were instantly captivated and entranced by these attractive and very sparkling jewels! 

(3) Range of Difficulty Levels - Like many other SmartGames, the challenges progress from the easiest level (that can be done even by my 3 and 5 year-old), to the real expert level that will leave you mind-boggled and bewildered. The starter stage gives positive clues with clear visual representations where specific gems are to be placed; the challenges intensify and ramp up in complexity with incorporation of “negative clues” (ie what NOT to be placed at a certain position), and direction clues (eg no triangle gem next to another triangle gem). Solutions are provided. This is an awesome family game that suits all ages with fantastic replay value! 

(4) Game Board With Lid - I love the travel-friendly game board with lid that can securely store all the pieces and the challenge booklet within. 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://www.leisurelearning.com.au/diamond-quest (Australia) 

Enjoy the video!