Nacho Pile, By Pandasaurus Games - REVIEW

Nature / Type:             Board game 

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️  

Recommended age:     7 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Anyone who loves luck-based games

Nacho Pile from Pandasaurus Games , is a delightfully delicious experience - perfect for days when you don’t want to use too much brainpower but still want something crunchy to satisfy your board-game cravings. Big thanks to Let's Play Games for providing a copy! 

Why I love ❤️ it: 

(1) Luck-Based Game With Nacho Chips

The rules feel refreshingly novel - unlike anything I’d played before. I was skeptical initially of this mostly luck-based game, but once we started playing, the simplicity and cutthroat nature completely won us over. Inside the bag are 54 plastic chips, 6 cardboard plates, and a rules sheet. Setup couldn’t be easier: place a plate in front of each player and give the bag of chips a good shake. On your turn, you draw chips from the bag. Most are numbered 1–7, with a few special chips mixed in. You may draw as many as you like - but if you ever draw a duplicate number, you bust and everything you drew goes back into the bag. If you stop safely, the chips you drew stay in front of you, and you steal matching-number chips sitting in front of other players. At the start of your next turn, you “plate” all your chips, locking them safely away. When the very last chip is revealed, the player with the most of that value wins. If it’s a Special or Wild chip, the player with the most total chips wins.

(2) Special Chips Adding Delicious Twists

No snack is complete without extra spice. Special chips add delicious chaos: Steal lets you grab an entire pile from another player, Score allows you to immediately plate one number you drew, Remove throws an opponent’s pile back into the bag, and Wild chips can count as any number.

(3) Simple Decisions - Draw Or Stop

I’m usually not a fan of pure push-your-luck games, but Nacho Pile surprised me. Decisions are simple but impactful: draw or stop, which pile to steal or remove. That said, the ending can feel slightly anticlimactic - having the most chips doesn’t always mean you’ll win. Mindless? A little. Entertaining? Very.

(4) Chunky Plastic Chips That Look Like Nachos + Unique Bag

We also adore the chunky triangular plastic chips - they really do look like tiny nachos. I love the unique - a Doritos-style bag you peel open, complete with a satisfying crinkle, that doubles as the draw bag.

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

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

https://www.goodgames.com.au/products/nacho-pile

Check out my reviews on other Pandasaurus Games: 

• Machi Koro, by Pandasaurus 
• Beacon Patrol, by Pandasaurus

Enjoy the video! 

Yum Cha, By Quokka Games - REVIEW

Nature / Type:             Card game 

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Recommended age:     7 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Strategy games + Dim Sum/ Yum Cha lovers

I’m IN LOVE with this game!!! There are so many things that really hit the right spots for the Asian in me – and the game itself is just spot-on! Thank you Quokka Games ! Guys – you need to check out Yum Cha!

Why I love ❤️ it: 

(1) Form A Complete 11-Card Hand To Win

The game contains a collection of cards depicting various dishes you might find at Dim Sum, a Chinese brunch meal usually paired with tea. Players aim to collect sets of cards and be the first to shout “Yum Cha!” to end the round. Each round starts with 10 cards per player, with the rest placed in a facedown deck. Players take turns drawing from the deck or from discard pile, then discarding a card to the centre. A complete hand requires 3 sets (eg small, medium, large, dessert) of 3 non-duplicate dim sum, and a pair of identical tea cards. Some sets score more (special, super, or top sets). A round ends when a player forms a complete 11-card hand. The rest of players score zero unless they hold takeaway cards, which allow completed set to count. After 4 rounds, the highest scorer wins.

(2) Learn About Yum Cha Dishes - Images + Names

The cards feature images and names of each dish - how many can you recognise? Beyond classics like Pork Dumpling, Prawn Dumpling, BBQ Pork Bun, Egg Tart, and Mango Pudding, the game introduces authentic favourites like Taro Puff, Turnip Cake, Sesame Ball, Chive Dumpling, and yes… Chicken Feet! You’ll also discover teas like Dragon Well, Iron Goddess, and Longevity Eyebrow.

(3) English + Traditional Chinese With Pin Yin & Cantonese Pronunciation!

But…. to really order like a pro, you’ve got to say it in the “right” language! Each card includes English, Traditional Chinese characters, Pin Yin (Mandarin), and Cantonese pronunciation (jyutping). I’ve never seen my kids so excited to call out dishes in Mandarin: “I got a Cha Shao Bao!”, “Discarding Chang Fen”, “Thanks for the Nai Huang Bao!” Honestly, it almost made me tear up. And the best part? The winner gets the “Pay the Bill” (Mai Dan) card! It might sound odd, but it reflects the hilarious Chinese tradition of fighting to pay the bill - the kids giggled non-stop when I explained it.

(4) Compact Card Game With Adorable Food Characters

Compact, portable, and beautifully designed with adorable food characters- each with a cheeky smile! Simply incredible! 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://quokkagames.com/products/yum-cha?variant=58432714604625

Enjoy the video! 

Sushi Go! Spin Some For Dim Sum, By Gamewright - REVIEW

Nature / Type:             Board game 

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

Recommended age:     8 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Kids and adults that enjoy "Sushi Go!" / Dim Sum lovers/ decision-making games 

 “Sushi Go! Spin Some For Dim Sum by Gamewright - no sushi but all dim sum. As an Asian who grew up with regular dim sum meals, this game immediately captured my heart! Thank you Let's Play Games for providing a copy for review. 

Why I love ❤️ it: 

(1) Take The Dim Sum Or Spin The Turntable

The game comes with a turntable placed in the middle of the table, holding six piles of cards. Each pile represents a different dish, and every card scores points in its own way - as shown on your menu. Each player places their plate in front of one pile and starts with 4 chopstick tokens. On your turn, you take the top card from the pile next to you. Don’t like it? Spend a chopstick (or more), rotate the turntable, until you find a card you want. Play continues until everyone has 12 cards - highest score wins.

(2) Packed With Fun Decisions - Choose The Best Combo For Best Scores!

The game plays over 12 rounds with 12 different card types. It’s simpler than the original Sushi Go!, but still packed with fun decisions. You’ll chase sets (2, 3, or 4 of a kind), but each dish scores differently. For example - Turnip Cake gives 2 points each—but only if you have an odd number. Shumai (my personal favourite, in-game and in real life) scores a big 12 points when you collected 4 of them! Sesame Balls are a simple, tasty 2 points each; Special Plates offer 5 points if you collect all 4 required dishes. Chopsticks add a clever resource layer. Spend them to rotate the table - but spend too many early, and you may regret it later.

(3) Extremely CUTE Squishy Steamed Bun

The Steamed Bun adds a delightful twist. Collecting one lets you claim the squishy bun token - yes, an actual soft toy! You can “return” the bun to the turntable in exchange for rotating the table for free to any stack (pretty powerful!). Player with the most Steamed Bun cards get 3 points, and player with the least get -3 points. My only “complaint”? The bun is too cute - my kids just can’t stop “stealing” it. 

(4) Amazing Tabletop Appearance With Clever Spinning Tray

This game looks amazing on the table. The spinning tray with steamer baskets perfectly recreates the dim sum experience - dishes circling, players reaching, and that constant desire of grabbing that dish too far from you. Smiling sesame balls, cheerful dumplings, and adorable turnip cakes make every card a joy to collect.

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

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

Check out more reviews on Gamewright games: 

• Metro X, by Gamewright
• Sushi Go, By Gamewright
• Go Nuts for Donuts, By Gamewright

Enjoy the video! 

Iconic Taco Kit, By Make Me Iconic - REVIEW

Nature / Type:             Pretend play toys

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

Recommended age:     3 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Kids who love pretend play + Taco!  

Everybody loves Taco Tuesday. This kit offers the ultimate way to create your very own Taqueria at home. With a perfect mix of customizable ingredients, the Iconic Taco Kit from Make Me Iconic offers endless possibilities for Taco lovers!

Why I love ❤️ this toy: 

(1) 21 Pieces - Mix & Match Your Taco Ingredients!

I’m truly impressed by the wide variety of Taco ingredients. This kit comes with 21 pieces that make mix-and-match play incredibly fun! You’ll get two stand-up wooden Taco shells, along with all the essentials—beef strip, beef mince, fish slice, cheese, red onion, tomato salsa, lettuce, and parsley—plus two grilled prawns on a stick for that extra special touch. What stands out to me is how stress-free the DIY process is: the cleverly designed standing taco shells allow for easy assembly, while the thin, sliced ingredients fit perfectly inside the shells without falling apart. The best part? There’s no need for knives or forks—just pile on your favorite toppings and enjoy! This is a kit that sparks creativity and brings friends together for a fun taco fiesta!

(2) Sauces & Garnishes

No playset is complete without the sauces and garnishes that bring all the flavors to life! This kit includes a red-hot wooden chili for that extra kick, a lime wedge for a squeeze of zesty juice, a bottle of Taco chili sauce to spice things up, and a jar of sour cream complete with a spoon and lid for the finishing touch. Whether you decide to use the wooden taco set as part of your kitchen setup or create a fun play restaurant, this toy lets you explore and experiment with flavors, making every taco experience uniquely your own!

(3) Mix Of Materials - Adding Different Textures To Toy

I love the thoughtful mix of materials that add different textures to the toy. The sturdy wooden taco shells, sliced ingredients, jar, and bottle give it a solid, high-quality feel, while the felt lettuce leaf and parsley bunch add a soft, tactile touch that’s perfect for little hands. And if that’s not enough, the set even includes two paper bags, cheekily labeled with ‘Taco Me,’ giving it that authentic take-away shop vibe. 

(4) Quality & Compliance With Safety Standard

Made with non-toxic paints and complies with AU/EU/US safety standard, this toy combines quality with peace of mind.

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://makemeiconic.com/collections/all-products/products/iconic-toy-taco

Check out my other reviews on Make Me Iconic toys: 

• The Iconic Toy Camp Fire, By Make Me Iconic
• Iconic Healthy Tummy Brekkie, By Make Me Iconic
• Australian Vehicles, By Make Me Iconic 
• Doll Nurturing Set, By Make Me Iconic
• Aussies Munchies, By Make Me Iconic 
• Natural Healer Kit, By Make Me Iconic

Enjoy the video! 

Iconic Healthy Tummy Brekkie, By Make Me Iconic - REVIEW

Nature / Type:             Play food 

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Recommended age:     3 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Kids that enjoy pretend-play / food-preparation & yummy breakfast   

Iconic Healthy Tummy Brekkie from Make Me Iconic is the most innovative play food set I’ve ever come across. Forget the typical pancakes, sausage, and juice boxes—this is all about next-level wellness. We’re talking about a zen-inspired breakfast lineup that’s rooted in the healthy-eating movement. Let’s dive in!

Why I love ❤️ it: 

(1) Stylish & Modern 21-Piece Healthy Breakfast Set

This is a stylish, modern take on healthy, trendy foods. The 21-piece set includes everything you need for a wholesome breakfast. You’ll find: ⭐️ Goat Cheese Box—a protein-packed, easily digestible alternative to cow’s milk cheese. ⭐️ Tahini Sesame Spread- rich in fiber and protein. ⭐️ Almond Milk Carton— a creamy, plant-based, vegan-friendly choice for those who are lactose intolerant. ⭐️ Strawberry Kombucha Bottle—a fizzy, fermented drink with a sweet and tangy flavor, packed with probiotics for gut health. ⭐️ Quinoa Trail Mix Box—a nutrient-dense snack with quinoa, nuts, seeds, and dried fruits. This version brings out the healthy vibe of the toy while keeping the description clear and inviting!

(2) Fun To Play + With Touch Of Aussie Goodness

There’s even more to love: a touch of Aussie goodness with avocado, sourdough slice, crispy bacon, tomato slice, a sunny-side-up egg, and a classic brew in a heat-resistant enamel mug. The Goat Cheese Box with lid contains three Velcro-fastened slices of goat cheese—perfect for slicing up with the included wooden knife! Tahini Sesame Spread comes with its own spoon, making it easy to spread that creamy goodness on your “toast”. 

(3) Sleek Serving Tray, Plate, Frying Pan & More

It even comes with a sleek serving tray featuring handles and designated slots for everything. There’s a concave space to neatly insert the fork and knife, plus spots for the wooden plate, frying pan, coffee mug, kombucha bottle, Tahini Sesame Spread jar, Almond Milk carton, Goat Cheese box, and Quinoa Trail Mix box. Not only is this tray functional, but it doubles as a fun matching game—kids can organize and pair up their items. 

(4) Designed In Australia - Good Quality & Built To Last

Crafted from durable wood, this set is built to last for years of play. Designed in Australia and ethically made overseas, it is in compliant with AU toy standards and meet EU and American safety regulations.

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://makemeiconic.com/collections/toys/products/iconic-toy-healthy-tummy-brekkie

Check out more reviews on toys from Make Me Iconic: 

• Australian Vehicles, By Make Me Iconic 
• Doll Nurturing Set, By Make Me Iconic
• Aussies Munchies, By Make Me Iconic 
• Natural Healer Kit, By Make Me Iconic

Enjoy the video!

Monstrolicious, By Repos Production - REVIEW

Nature / Type:             Board game 

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️    

Recommended age:     8 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Kids that enjoy delicious, monster-themed games with a hint of strategy 

Monstrolicious from Repos Production is a delightful mix of cute monsters and sweet treats, blending suspense, poker-style bluffing, and a large dash of honesty. Big thanks to VR Distribution for the copy!

Why I love ❤️ this game: 

(1) Tile-Placement Game With Selection Of Tempting Desserts

This is a tile-placement game where players strategize and place monsters in front of the most tempting desserts. The game includes two sets of 13 tiles (12 Monsters with value from 1 to 12 + 1 Trap card each), and a board with 10 dessert spaces that award different points. Players take turns drawing tiles and placing them on their side of the board, trying to outwit opponents by either claiming desserts or forcing them to reveal and compare tile values. The strongest monster claims the dessert, and the game ends when all tiles are played. The highest-scoring monster family wins the game. 

(2) Special Spaces With Advantages & Bonus Points

Special spaces like Lollipop, Donuts, and the Chocolate Fountain offer advantages like breaking ties, flipping opponent’s tiles, or gaining bonus points. The strategy comes in deciding where to place high-value tiles, whether to maximize points or control key dessert spaces, all while trying to deduce your opponent’s moves. 

(3) Faced-Down Playing Tiles - A Deduction Game

One of the standout features is the unique mechanic of playing tiles face down. Cards are only revealed when they clash with an opponent’s tile. When this happens, the defender’s card is revealed, and the attacker announces (honestly) whether their tile is higher or lower—without showing their own card. This adds a layer of deduction, as players must use visible cards and the outcomes of previous battles to infer what their opponent might have left, creating a tense and strategic guessing game. Use the “Trap” card wisely—it’s the perfect opportunity to discard your opponent’s monster and savor the sweet taste of revenge!

(4) High Quality Components & Whimsical Artwork

The game features high-quality components, including a durable tri-fold board. The whimsical monsters are charming and perfectly complement the dessert-themed artwork that instantly captivates kids with tempting treats like Croquembouche profiterole tower! The set also includes a cookie recipe, adding a sweet touch to the package.

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://www.bigw.com.au/product/repos-production-monstrolicious-kids-family-tabletop-strategy-card-game-7y-/p/9900297422 (Australia) 

https://www.gameology.com.au/products/monstrolicious (Australia) 

https://www.gamesmen.com.au/monstrolicious-card-game (Australia) 

Enjoy the video! 

Snack Monster, By Exploding Kittens - REVIEW

Nature / Type:             Board game/ party game for kids 

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️  

Recommended age:     4 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Kids that enjoy quick, silly games (plus a little chaos) 

“Snack Monster” from Exploding Kittens is a delightfully chaotic and silly game that’s perfect for young kids. It’s a fast-paced and simply “snack-tacular”! A big thank you to VR Distribution for providing this game.

Why I love ❤️ it: 

(1) Interactive & Light-Hearted Game - Perfect For Family Game Nights

This is a light-hearted and quirky game perfect for family game nights. Spin the monster spinner, collect snack tokens, do some silly acting, and simply have fun! The set-up is quick, and the straightforward rules are ideal for kids aged 4 and up. I LOVE how interactive this game is - Players might be asked to take 1 or 2 snacks from the middle pile, choose another player to do the same, draw an action card, or ask a player to act out a card! The winner is the first to collect 8 or more snacks, adding a competitive edge to the fun!”

(2) Act It Out! - Enjoy The Silly & Hilarious Process

The GREATEST aspect of this game - it’s about enjoying the silly process over winning, despite the minor competitive elements! The selection of action cards is deliciously engaging and the kids were exploding with laughter throughout - from pretending that the snack make you sleepy, eating like a cat, eating with only your pinkies, eating like a piggy and even a monster! The acting segments are the highlight and favourite section of this game for my kids! The artwork on the cards is hilariously absurd, providing plenty of chuckles along the way. 

(3) Sturdy, Eye-Catching Spinner + 2 Separate Rules For Adults & Kids

I love how large and eye-catching the spinner is. It’s a unique, sturdy component, and the concept of using your finger to press down and stop it adds a fresh twist. Multiple players can stop the spinner simultaneously, but if you prefer a more structured approach, I guess it’s alright to modify the rules for a turn-taking format (like what we did). True to the Exploding Kittens style, the rules include detailed instructions for adults as well as a concise version for reading aloud to the kids. 

(4) Use the 30 Token Snacks / OR Replace With Real Snacks For Chaotic Fun!

The game comes with 30 token snacks, (including pretzels, gummy bears, orange slices, jelly beans - YUM!). However, feel free to replace them with real snacks for some truly chaotic and messy fun! We haven’t tried this yet, but I can imagine it would be a massive hit at any kids’ party.

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://www.gamesworld.com.au/product/snack-monster/ (Australia) 

https://www.gameology.com.au/products/snack-monster-by-exploding-kittens (Australia) 

https://www.hobbyco.com.au/products/snack-monster (Australia) 

https://www.woolworths.com.au/shop/productdetails/1075845587/exploding-kittens-llc-snack-monster-card-game (Australia) 

Check out more reviews on Exploding Kittens games here: 

• You Little Stinker, By Exploding Kittens
• My Parents Might Be Martians, By Exploding Kittens
• I Want My Teeth Back, By Exploding Kittens
• Hurry Up Chicken Butt, By Exploding Kittens 
• The Best Worst Ice Cream, By Exploding Kittens
• Throw Throw Burrito, By Exploding Kittens

Enjoy the video! 

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! 

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 

Enjoy the video! 

Fire Noodle Eating Champs, By ToToTam - REVIEW

Nature / Type:             Dice game 

Rating:                        ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️    

Recommended age:    8 year-old ++ 

Who would love this:  Fast dice game with hint of skill element  

I’m NOT a big fan of dice games - they’re too “random”, too “luck-based”, too unpredictable. BUT - “Fire Noodle Eating Champs” is a rare “dice game” that does it RIGHT. It gives a wacky delicious twist, with hint of skill and speed elements that makes the game so delightful and enjoyable! Thank you ToToTam for providing this - we’re loving it! 

Why I love ❤️ this game: 

(1) Competitive Dice Game With Zero Down-Time 

Inspired by the video game created by Wombok Games , Fire Noodle Eating Champs is intense, competitive, with zero down-time. Included in it are 8 dice, 28 “noodle cards”, a trophy card, and a rule sheet. Each contestant starts with 4 topping dice and 4 noodle cards (for beginners, start with 2 x Fire Level 1, and 1 each of Fire Level 2 and 3). On the count of 3, players simultaneously flip over a noodle card, roll the dice (repetitively), and place matching dice to fill up the topping spaces on card. Once all topping spaces on a card are covered - “eat it” and move on to the next card. Sounds simple? Here’s the twist. If you roll a “Spicy” face, that die is put aside and cannot be rolled again unless you “reset” the process to roll 4 dice again (including those “matching dice” that are covering the topping spaces). The first player who finished up 4 “bowls” of spicy noodles and grabbed the Trophy card - wins the game! I love the intensity, instant actions, and the “honesty” element that makes this game so genuinely fun (we have to trust all players not to cheat). 

(2) Spicy Noodles Theme - YUM! 

Oh, and who can resist that heart-pounding excitement of spicy noodles. I love the “oriental” noodle theme - from spring onion garnish, kimchi for a kick of tanginess, marinated eggs, mushrooms, and fiery red chilli. The artwork is simple and adorable. 

(3) Adjustable Difficulty Levels For All Ages 

I love the adjustable levels - each Fire Level represents the number of ingredients (eg a card of Fire Level 4 would have 4 toppings on it). We can adjust the difficulty levels based on skill level / age of players. This is a fantastic family game! 

(4) Sturdy Tin Metal Box 

I love the sturdy and compact tin metal box. Each set has 8 dice for a 2-player challenge, with expandable potential (combining 2 or more sets) for more players. 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://shop.goodgames.com.au/products/fire-noodle-eating-champs?variant=43957540487326 (Australia) 

Enjoy the video! 

All You Can Eat, By Professor Puzzle - REVIEW

Nature/ Type:             Card Game

Rating:                       ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Recommended age:   12 year-old ++ (But my 7 and 4 year-old love this game too!) 

Who would love this: Strategy gamers & food lovers!

Sushi Go, Go Nuts for Donuts, Picky Eaters - it’s no secret I’m a HUGE fan of food-theme games. Nothing tastes more delicious than claiming victory in a game of mouthing-watering cuisines and calculative planning. Allow me to introduce our newfound favourite - “All You Can Eat” from Professor Puzzle (Thank you Jedko Games for another awesome recommendation!) 

Why I love ❤️ this game: 

(1) Strategy Game - Collect Good Cuisine Cards & Avoid Bad Clumsy Waiters! 

To win this game, players race to collect the “good” cuisine cards, plan your way with combo cards, tread carefully with “risky” chilli cards, and avoid clumsy waiter cards. Each player takes turn to be the “server” who strategically creates columns of cards (some face-up, some face-down). Next, starting with the player to the server’s left, each player selects a column of their choice and takes it into their hands. Now, watch all the cards “unfold” and see how the selection affects the outcome of the feast! It’s amazing to watch how each player makes their choices: some play it safe, some take a risk, some have obvious “trust” issues 😂, some just love it random. I love the competitiveness, unpredictability, and a cheeky element of bluffing. 

(2) Wide Variety Of Cards To Spice Up The Game

I love the wide variety of cards included that really “spice” up the game. My 7-year-old (a risk-taker in nature) loves the chilli cards - 5 points would be deducted if a player collected 4 chilli cards, BUT you get to earn a whopping 10 points if you manage to collect 5 of them! Everyone loves dessert cards (who doesn’t love a sweet extra point?), and the player who collects the biggest set of cuisine cards wins one of 4 matching trophies of extra 3 points. 

(3) 4 Types Of Cuisine - Culturally Diverse 

The game features 4 types of cuisines: Mexican, Mediterranean, East Asia, and South Asia. We LOVE foods from around the world and the diversity displayed on the cards: Churro, Egg Tarts, Nachos, Ramen, Pizza, Dumplings, and more! 

(4) Compact Game - Family-Friendly & Travel Easy

I love that the cards and instructions are compactly packed within a small and travel-friendly box. This is a great family game - it’s recommended for older kids from 12 year-old ++, but trust me, younger kids “get” the game and enjoy it too. This is a delightfully yummy game! 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://cookiejar.com.au/products/all-you-can-eat-tasty-card-gam (Australia) 

https://www.dicksmith.com.au/da/buy/cookie-jar-all-you-can-eat-tasty-card-gam-8255459918053/ (Australia) 

Enjoy the video! 

Pass The Party Food, By Joey Games - REVIEW

Nature/ Type:           Cute board game with Australian party food theme

Rating:                      ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

Recommended age:   7 year-old ++ (or younger) 

Who would love this: Kids who enjoy cooperative game with hint of strategy + party food! 

 I’m a fan of Joey Games . They are fun and easy to learn, and I love the Australian-theme connection. “Pass The Party Food” is one of the few board games at our house that our two kids (4 and 7 year-old) get to play together, and I’m really pleased to see another engaging game that fits into this age-range. 

Why I love ❤️ this game: 

(1) Cute Cooperative Game With Easy-To-Learn Rules 

“Pass The Party Food” is a cooperative game with straightforward strategy. The objective is to collect complete sets of foods (5 of each, or 4 of a same type) to advance forward on the score board. To set up, each player gets a “play board” with images of party foods arranged in horizontal and vertical rows. On each turn, a player draws 3 random food tiles from a drawstring bag, distributes the tiles (keep 1, pass 1 to the player on the left, and the last 1 to the player on the right/ to be discarded - depending on number of players). Players work collaboratively to race against Ziggy to prevent the mischievous dog from catching up with any player on the score board. There are also Swap Tokens, Take Tokens, and “Lucky Dip” (for a special bonus draw) that give a little twist to the game. I love that the game really maximises the “teamwork” aspect - not only do the players need to think about how to gather their own complete sets, they must also take tactical moves to help other players to score during each turn! 

(2) Delicious Australian Party Food Theme 

I adore the cute and nostalgic Australian party foods theme! Fairy Breads and chewy snakes are big favourites in our parties, and we love spongy chocolate lamingtons. The kids are very curious about pikelets and the Hundreds and thousands biscuits. We love how “delicious” this game is and that hint of retro look! 

(3) Delightful Artwork + Environmental-Friendly Components 

The artwork is delightful, and the components are well-made. The player boards, food tiles, score board and other thick cardboard components were made using sustainably managed materials (FSC certified paper and cardboard), and the pawns are made of quality wooden material. 

Whilst this game might not excite a grown-up too much (given how straightforward the gameplay is), it’s definitely a hit with the kids in the right age bracket. 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://joeygames.com.au/passthepartyfood

Check out my reviews on other Joey Games: 

• Busy Beaks, by Joey Games 
• Scribbly Gum, by Joey Games 

Enjoy the video! 

Food Fractions, By Junior Learning - REVIEW

Nature/ Type:           Educational resources to learn about fractions 

Rating:                      ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

Recommended age:   5 year-old ++   

Who would love this: Parents who are looking for fun and engaging educational resources for their kids to learn about fractions & mathematics / AND kids who love foods & puzzle 

“Food Fractions” from Junior Learning is the most mouth-watering mathematics and fractions learning resources I had ever seen. It’s realistic, visually-appealing, makes us hungry, and our two kids genuinely love it. 

Why I love ❤️ this toy: 

(1) 129 Fractional Foods In Numerous Shapes, Sizes, Sections! 

Unseal the box, and get ready to be intrigued by the numerous food pieces poured out from the packaging! There are a total of 129 (!) fractional foods in multiple shapes, sizes, sections. You get a classic Pink Frosted Sprinkled Donut divided into 3 separate pieces, a waffle in four perfect quarters, six pieces of chocolate cake topped with crunchy shavings, 8 slices of Pepperoni pizza, cherry pie in 10 equal segments, carrot chopped in 5, a long loaf of bread in 10 slices, a whole banana, a big round watermelon, and MANY MORE delicious and realistic-looking food pieces (a total of 21 forms, to be exact). Seriously, what’s better way to learn and visualise a tricky mathematics concept such as fractions than by using vivid, colourful and kids-friendly food representation! 

(2) Quality Thick Cardboard Material With Magnetic Sheets At The Back 

The food pieces were made of thick cardboard with foam board (which give them a bit of a “3D” feel). There are magnetic sheets at the back of these food fractions - so we can complete the “fraction puzzles” by sticking the pieces on whiteboard, fridge, magnetic dry erase board, and more! I love how simple yet versatile these educational resources are! 

(3) Versatile - Different Ways To Play & Learn 

I love that there are so many different ways to play with these food fractions, depending on the kid’s age and skill level. My 7 year-old has just started learning about fraction numbers in school, so he was pretty excited to identify the fraction numeral on each of the food pieces (the 1/2 on the half banana, 1/8 on the corn on cob segments, 1/12 on the watermelon wedges etc). Personally, I’m not quite sure if the carrot (and cucumber) chunks of unequal sizes can be strictly considered as “fractions”, but I’m probably being a bit pedantic over here. Our 4 year-old uses these pieces for her invented games, and she really enjoys completing the interesting food puzzles and “serving” them at her teddy bear picnics and tea-parties. 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this:

https://juniorlearning.com.au/products/food-fraction?_pos=1&_sid=eb394d8b8&_ss=r (Australia) 

Check out more review of Junior Learning products here: 

• Times Table Bubble Board, By Junior Learning 
• Multiplication Dominoes, By Junior Learning 
• Flashbot, By Junior Learning 
• Phonics Tri-Blocks Tub, By Junior Learning
• CVC Tri-Blocks Tub, By Junior Learning 
• 100s Bubble Board, By Junior Learning 

Enjoy the video!