Turtle Splash! (2021) Board Game

Turtle Splash! is a fun and engaging children’s board game designed by Joel Escalante and Rafael Escalante. Published by Gigamic in 2021, this game is perfect for kids aged 5 and up. With its cute turtle theme and simple gameplay mechanics, Turtle Splash! is a great introduction to board games for young children.

Game Components of Turtle Splash!

12 tiles featuring adorable animals illustrated by Maïa Zeidan

A waterfall cardboard ramp ending in a donut-shaped swimming hole

Turtle token

Beach ball tokens

Player mats with three rows of four different animals

Life preserver tokens

Side bumpers for the ramp (optional)

How To Setup Turtle Splash!

To set up the game, place the waterfall ramp in the center of the table, ensuring the swimming hole is secure. Each player receives a mat with three rows of four different animals. Shuffle and place the 12 animal tiles face down around the ramp. Each player starts with three beach ball tokens on the left side of their mat.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Dexterity Mechanic: Players take turns flicking the turtle token down the ramp, aiming to get it as close to the center of the swimming hole as possible.

Memory Mechanic: The closer the turtle gets to the center, the more tiles a player can flip over. Players must remember the locations of the animals to advance their beach ball tokens.

Game Objective: Be the first player to advance all three beach ball tokens to the right side of their mat by flipping over matching animal tiles.

Player Experience

Turtle Splash offers a fun and interactive experience for both children and adults. Kids are drawn to the vibrant animal artwork and the excitement of flicking the turtle token down the ramp. The game enhances skills such as counting, color recognition, and strategic thinking. Adults appreciate the game’s simplicity and the potential for it to be adapted into a drinking game, adding a fun twist for social gatherings.

Pros

Educational Value: Enhances counting, color recognition, and strategic thinking skills.

Engaging Gameplay: Combines dexterity and memory mechanics, making it appealing to a wide age range.

Adjustable Difficulty: Allows for various levels of difficulty to accommodate different ages and skill levels.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for 2-4 players, promoting social interaction and friendly competition.

Quick Playtime: Games typically last 15-20 minutes.

Cons

Frustration Potential: Younger players might get frustrated with the dexterity aspect if they struggle to flip tiles.

Component Durability: The cardboard ramp and tiles may require careful handling to maintain their condition.

Personal Thoughts on Turtle Splash!

Turtle Splash is an excellent addition to any family-focused game collection. It’s ideal for families with young children who enjoy interactive and visually appealing games. The game’s adaptability in difficulty levels and its short playtime make it a great fit for after-school programs or quick family game nights. While it may not be a regular choice for adult-only gatherings, its potential as a drinking game adds a unique twist for those looking to spice up their social events. Overall, Turtle Splash is a fun and educational game that keeps players of all ages engaged and entertained.

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